Frogs O' War - TCU Draft Profiles 2016The #1 TCU Athletics blog on the internet!https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/50293/fow-fav.png2016-04-28T22:46:45-05:00http://www.frogsowar.com/rss/stream/112657232016-04-28T22:46:45-05:002016-04-28T22:46:45-05:00Josh Doctson is a Redskin
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/EUNll6O-6dGWHRl9GcEL05eDDmk=/0x104:4626x3188/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49432151/usa-today-9273288.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The former TCU wide receiver went to Washington with the 22nd pick in the first round.</p> <p>Not all TCU fans are Dallas Cowboys fans, but the pro team across the metroplex from the Frogs certainly has their fair share of purple people. So, for many football fans Thursday night, Josh Doctson's name being called by Roger Goodell opened up a torrent of emotions.</p>
<p>From the sad...</p>
<p>
<script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"Redskins have selected, Josh Doctson" <a href="https://t.co/uJvmg3tl9D">pic.twitter.com/uJvmg3tl9D</a></p>
— Mason Chreene (@Mason_BChreene) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mason_BChreene/status/725884627940855808">April 29, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<p>To the nonplussed...</p>
<p>
<script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="tr">Oy vey <a href="https://t.co/D54inw8Q6K">pic.twitter.com/D54inw8Q6K</a></p>
— Travis Kennedy (@TSwayze45) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSwayze45/status/725878024097275906">April 29, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<p>There were some that found the silver lining...</p>
<p>
<script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Well Doc is basically guaranteed 5-6 TDs just by playing Dallas twice, so that's cool.</p>
— Jamie Plunkett (@TheDSportsRant) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheDSportsRant/status/725877866274017280">April 29, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<p>And outright joy from his new teammate...</p>
<p>
<script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/JDoc_son">@JDoc_son</a> welcome to the squad. I knew there was a reason I watched TCU all year lol. This kid is a stud</p>
— DeAngelo Hall (@DeAngeloHall23) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeAngeloHall23/status/725877357840633856">April 29, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<p>But ultimately, everyone who has followed Doc's career over the past several seasons couldn't be happier for a young man who embodies everything good about college sports; the Bleacher Creature turned walk-on who worked his way into becoming a first round pick.</p>
<p>Doctson joins a Washington team that will be quarterbacked by Kirk Cousins, a reliable passed in the mold of Andy Dalton, who has followed a similar career trajectory. He will join a wide receiving corp led by DaSean Jackson and Pierre Garcon, two 29 year old players known for speed, who are both in contract years - and probably likely candidates to be gone in 2017. This presents a near ideal situation for the rookie receiver - he will be given a ton of opportunities with teams forced to shift coverage over the top to the speed on the outside, and his incredible hands and ability to fight for the ball in the air should make him a safety net for Cousins on the short and mid-range routes.</p>
<p>Under coach Jay Gruden, the Skins have showed slow but continued improvement, and with the circus surrounding Robert Griffin finally out of town, the team could take a significant leap forward this fall. The NFC East is still certainly up for grabs - with QB questions up and down the conference, shaky defenses, and two new coaches, it's anybody's to win. Josh will also benefit from working against a great corner in practice - the recently signed Josh Norman can surely get him up to speed on the pro game.</p>
<p>Here is the official release from TCU AD Mark Cohen:</p>
<blockquote>
<blockquote>
<div>TCU graduate and unanimous consensus first-team All-America wide receiver Josh Doctson was selected in the first round of the 2016 National Football League Draft, the 22nd player overall, by the Washington Redskins <span class="aBn"><span class="aQJ">Thursday</span></span> night.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>Doctson is the second Horned Frog in the last three seasons and third in the past seven years to be drafted in the first round, joining defensive end Jerry Hughes (Indianapolis Colts, 2010) and cornerback Jason Verrett (San Diego Chargers, 2014).</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>Doctson, who arrived at TCU as a walk-on, is the 12th first-round draft pick in TCU history and the first to be a wide receiver. He is also the first Horned Frog to drafted by Washington since Robert Henson in the sixth round in 2009.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>A native of Mansfield, Texas, Doctson received his TCU degree in Film/Television/Digital Media in December 2015. He was in attendance in Chicago for the draft and joined by TCU head coach Gary Patterson, who has now had 37 players drafted with a total of 83 in NFL camps in 15 seasons. <a href="http://espn.com/" target="_blank">ESPN.com</a> recently ranked TCU No. 1 in the nation for developing NFL talent.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>Doctson, a 2015 finalist for the Biletnikoff Award, led the nation with 132.7 receiving yards per game. He was the only player in the country to rank in the top six in receiving yards per game, receptions per game (7.9) and touchdown catches (14). His 79 receptions, 1,327 yards receiving and 14 touchdowns were TCU single-season records.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>Despite missing three games and parts of two others due to injury in 2015, Doctson still topped all Big 12 receivers with 61 catches and 1,001 yards receiving in conference play. His 11 touchdown catches were one shy of the lead. Doctson joined two-time Biletnikoff Award winner Michael Crabtree from Texas Tech as the only players in the last 20 years to have six straight games with at least 100 yards receiving and multiple touchdown catches. Doctson is one of just eight players in Big 12 history to have multiple seasons of at least 1,000 yards receiving and 10 touchdown catches.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>Eleven of Doctson's 14 touchdown receptions in 2015 came with the score in single digits. He was tied for the national lead with 56 catches of at least 10 yards.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>Doctson received Walter Camp National Offensive Player of the Week honors after his 18 receptions for 267 yards and three touchdowns in TCU's 55-52 win at Texas Tech.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>In just three seasons, Doctson holds TCU career marks with 2,785 receiving yards and 29 touchdown catches. His 180 receptions rank second in Horned Frogs history, one behind the 181 by Kelly Blackwell (1988-91).</div>
<div><br></div>
<div><b>TCU's First-Round NFL Draft Choices</b></div>
<div>1936 - Jimmy Lawrence, WB, Chicago Cardinals</div>
<div>1937 - Sam Baugh, QB, Washington Redskins</div>
<div>1939 - Ki Aldrich, C, Chicago Cardinals</div>
<div>1939 - Davey O'Brien, QB, Philadelphia Eagles</div>
<div>1958 - Jim Shofner, DB, Cleveland Browns</div>
<div>1960 - Jack Spikes, FB, Denver Broncos</div>
<div>1961 - Bob Lilly, DT, Dallas Cowboys</div>
<div>1970 - Norm Bulaich, RB, Baltimore Colts</div>
<div>2001 - LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, San Diego Chargers</div>
<div>2010 - Jerry Hughes, DE, Indianapolis Colts</div>
<div>2014 - Jason Verrett, CB, San Diego Chargers</div>
<div>2016 - Josh Doctson, WR, Washington Redskins</div>
</blockquote>
</blockquote>
<p>Congrats to Doc and his family on this momentous moment; the entirety of the Frog Fam couldn't be happier for you (even if we are having deep personal struggles with cheering for your new team)!</p>
https://www.frogsowar.com/2016/4/28/11534210/josh-doctson-is-a-redskinMelissa B. Triebwasser2016-04-28T17:00:02-05:002016-04-28T17:00:02-05:00NFL Draft Preview: TCU Edition
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/RtHidHARC8fJ5ZUxviCGAM-OEV4=/0x60:4842x3288/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49413485/usa-today-7904709.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Today is the day that a lot of these boys have been dreaming about since they strapped on their pads on Friday nights. Some will soar up boards, some will slide, but this is the big time. Let's take a look at where our Frogs stand come this weekend.</p> <p>Alright ladies and gentlemen, today is the day that I have been waiting for like Christmas... except instead of getting socks, we'll all be getting a stellar football prospect under our proverbial Christmas trees. There is no question that we love every single one of these guys that have declared for the draft. However, the question is, can NFL scouts say the same?</p>
<p>Josh Doctson, Kolby Listenbee, Trevone Boykin, Derrick Kindred, Big V, Jaden Oberkrom, and Aaron Green all have a chance to be drafted over the next couple of days. Even if they don't have their name called, don't lose hope, because they can still make an NFL roster through undrafted free agency (a la Kevin White and Chris Hackett).</p>
<p>If they have the chance to get drafted, the next logical question to ask is; <i>who</i> is going to draft them? A lot of other factors other than how good you are on the grid iron come into play when a team drafts a player. Unless you are an otherworldly talent that is worth the risk, you have to pass character tests, fit the mold of the type of player that the organization is going for, have a good physical upside (because it is <i>often</i> related to a player's ceiling), and possess the intangibles to excel on Sundays. You could be the second coming of Lawrence Taylor, but if you have those two words, "character concerns" hanging over your head, then you could see your draft stock plummet come draft time. In other words, the NFL draft is the manliest beauty pageant ever conceived.</p>
<p>Alright, it' s time to get down to the nitty gritty. Let's try to project what team is going to select which Frog in which round.</p>
<div style="background-color:#fff;display:inline-block;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color:#a7a7a7;font-size:11px;width:100%;max-width:594px;" class="getty embed image">
<p style="margin:0;"> </p>
</div>
<h5>Josh Doctson - Cincinnati Bengals, 1st round, 24th overall</h5>
<div style="background-color:#fff;display:inline-block;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color:#a7a7a7;font-size:11px;width:100%;max-width:594px;" class="getty embed image">
<div style="padding:0;margin:0;text-align:left;"><a style="color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;" target="_blank" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gettyimages.com%2Fdetail%2F490199810&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.frogsowar.com%2F2016%2F4%2F28%2F11517978%2Fnfl-draft-preview-tcu-edition" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener">Embed from Getty Images</a></div>
<div style="overflow:hidden;position:relative;height:0;padding:66.498316% 0 0 0;width:100%;"><iframe style="display:inline-block;position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;margin:0;" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" height="395" width="594" src="//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/490199810?et=CTCTKOpeS4h24PqZPpxzbg&viewMoreLink=off&sig=7SwXM-3AnD3ijZFzlMzxuQ7tWF4NK2O4FpxWBm5sLrA="></iframe></div>
<p style="margin:0;"> </p>
</div>
<p>If the Doctor isn't a first rounder then it's a crime. I've seen Ole Miss' Laquon Treadwell, Baylor's Corey Coleman, and Doctson swap in and out of that top receiver spot on scouts' big boards. Again, it all depends on who you ask and what each team needs. Each of these receivers have their own specific set of skills, strengths and weaknesses. Where Treadwell is best at fighting through contact after the catch and blocking and Coleman has his acceleration off the line of scrimmage, Doctson has the best body control of anybody in this draft. He can high point the ball like no other, and no offense to Boykin, can bail out a quarterback by catching passes that have no business being caught.</p>
<p>He's TCU's all time record holder in all things receiving for a reason (actually Coleman and Treadwell hold records at their respective schools, but bare with me). Doctson can be the first receiver taken in this draft and most have him pegged anywhere between the 22nd and 30th pick.</p>
<p>I'm kind of playing the crowd on this one, but I still think that Treadwell will be the first receiver taken, at 23 to the Vikings, and considering the Bengals lost their #2 and #3 receivers to free agency they need to get another weapon for Dalton to throw to. Cincinnati has shown that they value TCU prospects, so they steal Doctson when he falls into their lap. Oh boy, watching him and his idol, A.J. Green, line up on opposite sides of the field together...watch out AFC North secondaries.</p>
<p>Now here's my hot take alternative scenario: <i>The Cowboys trade with Houston to get back up into the first round and take Doctson 22nd overall. </i>Before you scream out DFW bias just hear me out. We've seen Jerry Jones trade up for worse, and if the Cowboy's drafting strategy of trying and get Romo as many immediate impact players as possible, then why should this be that much of a surprise? Doctson fits the mold of a Cowboy's receiver (tall frame, and not having to rely solely on speed to make plays), and Terrance Williams has struggled as a #2 across from Dez Bryant. Slide Williams back into the slot where he can be productive, let Doctson be the #2, let Dez be Dez, and oh ya there is still Jason Witten as the security blanket extraordinaire. That's a pretty dandy air attack if you ask me.</p>
<h5>Kolby Listenbee - Pittsburgh Steelers, 4th or 5th round</h5>
<div style="background-color:#fff;display:inline-block;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color:#a7a7a7;font-size:11px;width:100%;max-width:594px;" class="getty embed image">
<div style="padding:0;margin:0;text-align:left;"><a style="color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;" target="_blank" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gettyimages.com%2Fdetail%2F487377406&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.frogsowar.com%2F2016%2F4%2F28%2F11517978%2Fnfl-draft-preview-tcu-edition" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener">Embed from Getty Images</a></div>
<div style="overflow:hidden;position:relative;height:0;padding:66.498316% 0 0 0;width:100%;"><iframe style="display:inline-block;position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;margin:0;" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" height="395" width="594" src="//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/487377406?et=77kEB8b1Qxl_fMiGgWDF4g&viewMoreLink=off&sig=OQQzbL9POiSjFdUmjteo2YHN3KFuRM-SLw8fU-TwkUE="></iframe></div>
<p style="margin:0;"> </p>
</div>
<p>Track star, Olympic qualifier, deep ball threat, NFL draftee. Even without adding "potential NFL starter" to that list of names, Kobly's got a pretty solid list going there.</p>
<p>I can see a team that is starving for some young talent and depth at the receiver position, that is waiting to address the position until later rounds, due to other needs being more pressing. There are three teams that come to mind right away: The Lions, 49ers, and the Steelers. While the Steelers don't lack in the receiver department, they did just lose Martavius Bryant for the year due to him being suspended for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. Pittsburgh also has a tendency to take receives late in the draft and make stars out of them, just look at Antonio Brown and Martavius Bryant (pre-suspension). That is why I think Steel City would be a good place for the Bee in the later rounds of the draft. Also, come on, his last name is ListenBEE, and the Steelers have <a href="http://content.sportslogos.net/news/2012/11/600.jpg" target="_blank">bumblebee-like uniforms</a>. Match made in heaven.</p>
<h5>Derrick Kindred - Buffalo Bills, 7th round</h5>
<div style="background-color:#fff;display:inline-block;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color:#a7a7a7;font-size:11px;width:100%;max-width:594px;" class="getty embed image">
<div style="padding:0;margin:0;text-align:left;"><a style="color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;" target="_blank" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gettyimages.com%2Fdetail%2F458111106&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.frogsowar.com%2F2016%2F4%2F28%2F11517978%2Fnfl-draft-preview-tcu-edition" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener">Embed from Getty Images</a></div>
<div style="overflow:hidden;position:relative;height:0;padding:66.666667% 0 0 0;width:100%;"><iframe style="display:inline-block;position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;margin:0;" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" height="396" width="594" src="//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/458111106?et=A0v5ipV9QZlbA21NVXxb-g&viewMoreLink=off&sig=rbLMXasY7B6_2DvGUZxGubFPt4TamL8SzNDqLKVxDMg="></iframe></div>
<p style="margin:0;"> </p>
</div>
<p>Come on, don't tell me the thought of hard hitting Derrick Kindred being coached up by Rex Ryan doesn't at least bring a smile to your face. Early on DK had a penchant for biting a little too much and getting burned result, so if he wants to become a regular starter in the secondary he's got to be able to stretch the field with receivers. However, he can step right in and be a difference maker on special teams, like what he did with the Frogs.</p>
<p>Then again, if they want to use him to cover a smaller part of the field, then I think that Kindred can be a difference maker with time and good coaching. After all, DK is an old-style player that I think that Ryan will fall in love with.</p>
<h5>Aaron Green - San Francisco 49ers, 6th round</h5>
<div style="background-color:#fff;display:inline-block;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color:#a7a7a7;font-size:11px;width:100%;max-width:594px;" class="getty embed image">
<div style="padding:0;margin:0;text-align:left;"><a style="color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;" target="_blank" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gettyimages.com%2Fdetail%2F503206566&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.frogsowar.com%2F2016%2F4%2F28%2F11517978%2Fnfl-draft-preview-tcu-edition" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener">Embed from Getty Images</a></div>
<div style="overflow:hidden;position:relative;height:0;padding:66.498316% 0 0 0;width:100%;"><iframe style="display:inline-block;position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;margin:0;" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" height="395" width="594" src="//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/503206566?et=jnKetrGQTsxw9utLKXq-9Q&viewMoreLink=off&sig=hXI3OV79fIlEGetsYzBfmjdizwgqmhBqIVeBAgSuVZw="></iframe></div>
<p style="margin:0;"> </p>
</div>
<p>I predict that Mr. Green will be wearing heading to the Golden state this offseason. Why? Well San Fran has the most draft picks of any team (tied with Cleveland) with 12 total picks. Other than Carlos Hyde, the Niners don't really have that strong of a stable of running backs. While Hyde is more of a power runner with a "run through, not around" defenders mentality, Green can be a piece to compliment him in Chip Kelly's system. Green can cut like nobody's business and is underrated as a pass catcher out of the backfield.</p>
<p>He doesn't have the "prototypical size" of an NFL back, well neither did Darren Sproles and he's doing just fine. Aaron runs like LeSean "Shady" McCoy, shifty and with a lot of heart. If he can improve his game in terms of getting through the gaps up front, then I don't see why he can't be a player like McCoy, maybe not workload wise, but he's got a great heart and mind for the game. At this moment though, I can really see AG being used as a running back that runs a couple of wheel routes or screens out of the backfield, similar to what Lance Dunbar does for the Cowboys.</p>
<h5>Halapoulivaati Vaitai "Big V' - Tennessee Titans, 6th round</h5>
<div style="background-color:#fff;display:inline-block;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color:#a7a7a7;font-size:11px;width:100%;max-width:594px;" class="getty embed image">
<div style="padding:0;margin:0;text-align:left;"><a style="color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;" target="_blank" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gettyimages.com%2Fdetail%2F458110384&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.frogsowar.com%2F2016%2F4%2F28%2F11517978%2Fnfl-draft-preview-tcu-edition" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener">Embed from Getty Images</a></div>
<div style="overflow:hidden;position:relative;height:0;padding:66.666667% 0 0 0;width:100%;"><iframe style="display:inline-block;position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;margin:0;" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" height="396" width="594" src="//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/458110384?et=A1O3LupGSOFlOIszxVvbmw&viewMoreLink=off&sig=gSRwpnNRF7wi5j7jktRcC8yv7aUTR4TNbGXLNtCQM2A="></iframe></div>
<p style="margin:0;"> </p>
</div>
<p>Right now, what is the Titan's most valued asset? The answer: Marcus Mariota, the guy they drafted #2 overall last year to be their franchise quarterback for the future. For a QB to have a long successful career in the NFL, what does he need? A good offensive line in front of him.</p>
<p>While it is likely that the Titans will select an offensive lineman in the first round, they desperately still need depth on the offensive line. Big V has been a solid starter, when healthy, for the Frogs. To be honest, I don't see him playing the left side of the O-line, because he's not as big or as athletic as some of the other <i>really really good</i> prospects in this year's draft.</p>
<p>Big V's biggest asset is and has been his consistent play. He's done really well on the right side of the field, and rarely played sloppy. He may not be a superstar at the next level (oh no you make millions of dollars anyways), but he can have a foreseeable future as a solid relief guy that comes off the bench and ensures that your quarterback stays on his feet long enough to finish the game. A role similar to that of a reliever in baseball. Not as flashy as the starter, but still a necessary component if you want to win games.</p>
<h5>Jaden Oberkrom - Pittsburgh Steelers, 7th round/Undrafted Free Agent</h5>
<div style="background-color:#fff;display:inline-block;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color:#a7a7a7;font-size:11px;width:100%;max-width:594px;" class="getty embed image">
<div style="padding:0;margin:0;text-align:left;"><a style="color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;" target="_blank" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gettyimages.com%2Fdetail%2F153995205&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.frogsowar.com%2F2016%2F4%2F28%2F11517978%2Fnfl-draft-preview-tcu-edition" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener">Embed from Getty Images</a></div>
<div style="overflow:hidden;position:relative;height:0;padding:66.666667% 0 0 0;width:100%;"><iframe style="display:inline-block;position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;margin:0;" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" height="396" width="594" src="//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/153995205?et=g1colI50RA5Mwk7uH-yDqw&viewMoreLink=off&sig=lhrV5vlQfUvIyr1ckOEuXhDbxwv51qaAfsYJxKpOGRQ="></iframe></div>
<p style="margin:0;"> </p>
</div>
<p>I know it stings a little to say this, but kickers are typically taken in free agency after the draft. It's just the way that a lot of organizations strategically take on the draft. That being said, that does not mean that a team doesn't already know that he is their guy from day one. They may just be trying to get more value out of their other picks or have more important needs to address. Don't get me wrong, when it comes down to crunch time, there are few things scarier than a inconsistent kicker. Just imagine the West Virginia game, or the second overtime of the Alamo Bowl if Oberkrom had been back and forth all season.</p>
<p>Florida State's Robert Aguayo is rated by many as being the best kicker available in this year's draft, so I'm placing my money on him going before anyone else. However, after that it's there is not much, if anything, separating the rest of the crop from one another. What scouts are going to love about Oberkrom is how is accuracy has improved over the course of his career. He's got the leg strength, there's no doubting that, but he has gone from making 73% of his kicks in 2012 to 84% in 2015.</p>
<p>I have him joining the Bee in Pittsburgh because of the Steelers' need for a consistent kicker that can be there for the long run. Last year they lost their starting kicker for the season to a knee injury, traded for Josh Scobee who ended up being the NFL equivalent of me kicking PK's in soccer, cut Scobee, and signed Chris Boswell for the remainder of the season. Something tells me that they are going to want a new kicker if 34 year old Shaun Suisham can't return to form and have concerns about Boswell's consistency.</p>
<p>Jaden can be a successful NFL kicker that can come in during clutch moments and deliver, I truly believe that. If he can just improve the hang time/trajectory of his short yardage kicks, which in the NFL where you are getting paid to improve your game and play football shouldn't be too tall of a task, he can be a top 5 kicker in the league. All Jaden has to do is work hard. He's got the leg, he's got the accuracy to separate himself from other prospects, all he needs is to smooth out those edges and he can be <i>automatic</i> at the next level.</p>
<h5>Trevone Boykin - New Orleans Saints, 6th - Undrafted Free Agent</h5>
<div style="background-color:#fff;display:inline-block;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color:#a7a7a7;font-size:11px;width:100%;max-width:594px;" class="getty embed image">
<div style="padding:0;margin:0;text-align:left;"><a style="color:#a7a7a7;text-decoration:none;font-weight:normal !important;border:none;display:inline-block;" target="_blank" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gettyimages.com%2Fdetail%2F494869126&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.frogsowar.com%2F2016%2F4%2F28%2F11517978%2Fnfl-draft-preview-tcu-edition" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener">Embed from Getty Images</a></div>
<div style="overflow:hidden;position:relative;height:0;padding:65.993266% 0 0 0;width:100%;"><iframe style="display:inline-block;position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;margin:0;" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" height="392" width="594" src="//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/494869126?et=arWczgngQBF0w-BfynlcHg&viewMoreLink=off&sig=aAXcjNYxZmWM2a0Epq6vYayhmbN31fkT_lFMkRkvwic="></iframe></div>
<p style="margin:0;"> </p>
</div>
<p>I know all of our hearts broke when we heard the news about what happened in San Antonio. I believe Trevone has moved passed that, and any scout worth their salt should believe that as well. That incident was not at all a reflection of the character that Boykin tries to represent. It is unfortunate that it came at the very end of the season, but Tre has worked hard to rebuild his image, and focus on the NFL draft.</p>
<p>If we all want Trevone to remain a QB at the next level, then this is the best scenario. He gets brought in by Sean Payton and the Saints, and gets to be mentored by none other than Drew Brees. Guess who has a lot of the same criticisms as Boykin coming out of College. Drew "Super Bowl Winning, 5000 passing yards a year throwing' Brees.</p>
<p>Boykin has a ways to go in terms of scanning the field and making progressions, and becoming a next level signal caller. He's shown his ability to grow and improve as a passer over his four years at TCU, and has the athleticism to compete at the next level. Thankfully Brees has the crystal clear cut footwork, can dissect a defense and make them pay, and he can help Boykin learn how to play the QB position well, despite not having the prototypical size.</p>
<p>Trevone throws the best deep ball of any QB in this draft, and is arguably the most elusive of the bunch when in the pocket. Drew Brees isn't getting any younger and Boykin can be the guy in the future, or a back up that can provide energy to the offense if Brees goes down.</p>
<p>Worst case scenario, the Saints get a player that can be mini Randall Cobb, and can aid in the passing attack with the occasional wildcat pass play. Bottom line: Boykin is not ready for a starting job nor the complicated defensive schemes of NFL defenses right out of the gate, but with time and the right mentor he can develop into a solid starter once he gets his chance.</p>
<p>Be sure to tune in to ESPN to watch the draft tomorrow at 7:00 CT. What are some of the teams that you think are willing to take a chance on the Frogs in this draft? Be sure to let us know in the comments!</p>
https://www.frogsowar.com/2016/4/28/11517978/nfl-draft-preview-tcu-editionMason Chreene2016-04-28T15:00:03-05:002016-04-28T15:00:03-05:00TCU Draft Profile: Halapoulivaati Vaitai
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/U-a3TavV8MReX6f5hsXKNyGUktM=/0x291:2678x2076/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49420281/usa-today-8128408.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Big V made his mark on the field for TCU; will he do the same at the next level?</p> <p><span>HAL-uh-POO-lih-VAH-tee VIE-tie. Say it with me: </span><span>HAL-uh-POO-lih-VAH-tee VIE-tie. Got it? I still have no idea how to properly spell his name, let alone say it - so thank goodness he has an easy nickname, Big V. And it fits so well. Vaitai is a BIG dude: all 6'6", 320 pounds of him.</span></p>
<p>A right tackle in 2014, Big V moved over to the left side in 2016, where he started 10 games and appeared in 12 of 13 contests on the season. Not elite athletically, as far as the pro game is concerned, Vaitai is a candidate to move to the guard position at the next level, but his measurables do compare favorably to other draft candidates like Shon Coleman of Auburn and Gerald Hawkins of LSU. He has good lateral quickness and is a great space eater in the run game, while also being savvy as a pass blocker and aware of what the defense is trying to do each play. Well coached from high school (at Haltom), through his years at TCU, Big V is a high IQ guy who rarely gets fooled on a play.</p>
<p>The concern for an outside lineman in the pro game is the speed of the athletes who rush off the edge for the defense. Without elite quickness or plus athleticism, Vaitai could be a target for the JJ Watt's and Von Millers of the world - guys who line up and just plain out-athlete you in the race to the QB. Because he isn't the fastest, or the strongest guy, in the pool, Vaitai is a strong candidate to move inside, where his size and smarts could make him a solid rotational player at either guard position.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><a href="http://www.nfl.com/draft/2016/profiles/halapoulivaati-vaitai?id=2555196">Lance Zierlein, NFL.com</a><span>: "Vaitai has been a full-time starter over the last two seasons for a successful TCU squad, but doesn’t have the plus athleticism to play left tackle or the hand strength and core power to start on the right side. Despite decent technique and football intelligence, may be too lacking in physical qualities to make the NFL leap."</span></p>
</blockquote>
<p>With two years under his belt as a full time starter, and plenty of reps in both pass pro and as a run blocker, I think V has what it takes to succeed at the next level. He may be years away from being a starter, or never make it as more than a backup, but surely there is a team that will find him projectable at the pro level and take a chance on him in the late rounds. The Patriots, Texans, Indianapolis, and Packers all have holes among the offensive line and may be looking for value late. Big V has also been linked in some mocks to San Francisco and Chip Kelly, and Seattle could make sense as well. Even a team like the Cowboys, who would be more likely to try and grab him as an UDFA, would be a great fit - they can afford to let him develop on the practice squad for a season or two due to the depth and talent along the line as it currently exists.</p>
<p>Wherever he ends up, Big V is sure to find success. With his football smarts and exceptional work ethic, he has all the tools to make, and stick on, an NFL roster.</p>
https://www.frogsowar.com/2016/4/28/11498100/tcu-draft-profile-halapoulivaati-vaitaiMelissa B. Triebwasser2016-04-28T10:30:02-05:002016-04-28T10:30:02-05:00TCU Draft Profile: Jaden Oberkrom
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/jd427CPKQHkLDL2ePPC-d1QOp2s=/0x0:5184x3456/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49411815/usa-today-9134294.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Jaden Oberkrom isn't Mr. Perfect. He's Mr. Realistic. </p> <p>Jaden Oberkrom's chances of being drafted are just about as slim as he is.</p>
<p>But in the words of the famed Justin Bieber, "Never say never."</p>
<p>Let's face it -- the NFL Draft is a toughie for kickers. Last near, no kickers were drafted. This year, there's really only one kicker on everyone's radar and that's Florida State's "Mr. Perfect" Roberto Aguayo, who seemingly believes perfection can be achieved.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"People say you can't be perfect, but in actuality, you can, because you can get a 100 on a test, like, that's being perfect." - <a href="http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=11556212" target="_blank">actual quote</a> by Roberto Aguayo</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Fine, Aguayo can be Mr. Perfect. But if Aguayo is Mr. Perfect, then Oberkrom is Mr. Realistic.</p>
<h5>Mr. Realistic<br>
</h5>
<p>Oberkrom is "Mr. Realistic" because first off, no one is perfect or ever will be perfect. You can, however, aim for perfection, which consequently results in improvement. In the case of Oberkrom's college career, he aimed for the moon, then duck-hooked and ended up hitting one of the stars.</p>
<p>Oberkrom had an "okay" freshman year in 2012, converting 73.3 percent of his field goal attempts, the longest being a 53-yard field goal. His PATs were perfect, too. From then on, it was clear Oberkrom would be doing this for a while.</p>
<p>Sophomore year, TCU went 4-8 and touchdowns were hard, so Oberkrom had to shoulder a lot of the point-scoring. He saw his field goal percentage go up to 77.8 percent and remained perfect on extra points. His one shining moment came when he hit a clutch 56-yard field goal to take the lead against Kansas State with 2:13 left in the game, but that shining moment turned into fleeting moment when Kansas State got close enough to hit their own field goal to win the game. Bummer.</p>
<p>His junior season was so much better though, as TCU's offense made a turnaround and started blowing out teams one after another. Oberkrom's appearances became less exciting, though, because that basically meant the Horned Frog air raiders couldn't fly into the end zone per usual. Still, he did what he had to do. Now mind you, he had a few blunders like the time he went 0-for-2 against SMU and the missed extra point against Oklahoma. But he did hit the game-winner over West Virginia and improved his field goal percentage to 81.5 percent.</p>
<p>Senior year, he saw even more improvement, nailing the longest field goal of his career (57 yards, tying Michael Reeder's record for longest field goal in school history) and pulling up his field goal percentage to 84 percent.</p>
<p>The point is this -- Oberkrom may not have been "perfect," but he consistently improved every year since he started.</p>
<p>Let's take a look at how that compares with Mr. Perfect Aguayo, starting them both on the same year. Oh, look at that.</p>
<p><iframe width="650" height="610" frameborder="0" src="https://magic.piktochart.com/embed/13327340-oberkrom-vs-aguayo" style="overflow-y:hidden;" scrolling="no"></iframe></p>
<h5>Not "Mr. Perfect"<br>
</h5>
<p>No matter what we say about Oberkrom and his accuracy going up and up, he isn't "Mr. Perfect" for explainable reasons. The thing about Oberkrom is he's great at getting distance and making the big kicks, especially when under pressure. It's the shorter distances and extra points that, instead of being automatic no-brainers, sometimes turn into "uh oh" moments.</p>
<p>The other downside -- Oberkrom didn't participate in TCU's Pro Day because he was <a href="http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000649377/article/boykin-shows-off-arm-doctson-is-outstanding-at-tcus-pro-day" target="_blank">"dealing with a groin issue,"</a> per Gil Brandt at NFL.com. Injuries are 0 fun, especially right before the draft. But hey, at least Oberkrom and JJ Watt have something in common.</p>
<p>Nonetheless, Oberkrom's talent does give him the slightest chance of going somewhere. He'll likely go in the seventh round or just be an undrafted free agent. A few teams that could consider picking up a kicker are the New Orleans Saints, Kansas City Chiefs, Cincinnati Bengals (because why not draft another Horned Frog) and the team everyone has feelings about, the Oakland Raiders.</p>
<p>Oberkrom will by no means be perfect, but teams can have realistic expectations about his ability to learn and produce on the field.</p>
https://www.frogsowar.com/2016/4/28/11500356/tcu-draft-profile-jaden-oberkromSamantha Calimbahin2016-04-27T16:00:03-05:002016-04-27T16:00:03-05:00TCU Draft Profile: Aaron Green
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/4HLjsmUaHczDChjhIKQHQpr3164=/0x19:3834x2575/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49392271/usa-today-9033495.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Erich Schlegel-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Aaron Green is a sleeper waiting to wake up.</p> <p>September 26, 2015. TCU vs. Texas Tech. Fourth and goal. Less than 30 seconds left in the game.</p>
<p>The Frogs were down 52-48 with one play left. All they needed to do was get the team's best receiver, Josh Doctson, in the end zone, throw to him and salvage the game.</p>
<p>Trevone Boykin took the snap as his receivers went running. Aaron Green, the running back, got help from a block and found himself wide open in the middle of the end zone. He turned and waved to get his quarterback's attention, but Boykin's eyes were set on Doctson, who was running straight into the path of two Tech defenders. Boykin threw and Doctson tried to leap for the catch, but the ball came up too high and grazed the tips of his fingers.</p>
<p>Luckily, Green was there watching the ball, his feet dancing safely within the end zone's boundaries. He jumped behind Doctson and the deflected ball bobbled into Green's hands. And somewhere in the booth, announcer Brian Estridge was screaming "ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!" over the radio. Touchdown TCU. The Frogs won.</p>
<p><iframe scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/225739275&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&visual=true" frameborder="no" height="450" width="100%"></iframe></p>
<p>It was a defining play for Green, one that in some ways illustrated the story of his career -- talent flying under the radar, waiting to be noticed, then swooping in and surprising everyone. Green isn't going to be as raved about as Ezekiel Elliott or Derrick Henry, but if given the chance, Green could become a contender. A "diamond in the rough," as they say. You know, like Aladdin.</p>
<h5>Husker to Horned Frog</h5>
<p>Green has a little Baylor Bear in his blood, but even though his father and uncle played for the arch rival out in Waco, he was "never" a Bears fan, he<a target="_blank" href="http://magazine.tcu.edu/fall-2015/first-person-qa-with-aaron-green/"> told TCU Magazine</a>. He ended up going to Nebraska in 2011 for his freshman year, where he showed some potential. He had two touchdowns there, one rushing and one receiving.</p>
<p>But in hopes of getting a little more playing time, Green transferred to TCU the following year. After sitting out that year, he finally got to put on the purple uniform and show his stuff. He mostly played behind BJ Catalon and averaged a meager 3.2 yards per attempt. Then the offense scheme changed for the 2014 season, Catalon got injured and suddenly, Green showed he was more than capable of being TCU's top running back. He had 11 touchdowns that year, nine rushing and two receiving, and averaged 7.1 yards per carry. Green seemed to take a step back in 2015, averaging 5.2 yards per carry, but he'd still made his way into Horned Frog lore with his miracle catch against Texas Tech.</p>
<h5>Diamond in the rough</h5>
<p>When draft conversations started, Green was barely part of it. He was also snubbed from the NFL Combine, so the only stages where Green could perform were the Senior Bowl and Pro Day.</p>
<p>He got some eyes at the Senior Bowl when he scampered for a 25-yard touchdown.</p>
<p><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UpQLNunFVF0" frameborder="0" height="315" width="420"><br></iframe></p>
<p>His Pro Day showed what he could've done at the Combine. His 40-yard dash time of 4.57 seconds would've listed him as a top performer in his position -- .03 seconds away from Heisman Winner Derrick Henry's time. And yet, critics continued to question his speed and ability to break through tackles. Many analysts guess Green would go as an undrafted free agent.</p>
<h5>Spin and juke</h5>
<p>There's a decent chance Green won't hear his name called on NFL Draft weekend, and that's okay. He could still make it into a camp and go from there. He did some work with the Dallas Cowboys -- which some say will draft a running back in the first round -- during the Cowboys' annual Dallas Day event. If anything comes out of it, Green's elusiveness and ability to make quick cuts would be a fantastic compliment to the Cowboys' solid offensive line. He may be the type of running back who tends to evade defenders as opposed to forcing through them, but with the right coaching, he could provide depth to the team.</p>
<p>All he needs is a chance.</p>
https://www.frogsowar.com/2016/4/27/11500212/tcu-draft-profile-aaron-greenSamantha Calimbahin2016-04-27T11:00:03-05:002016-04-27T11:00:03-05:00TCU Draft Profile: Trevone Boykin
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/FkaNWCx-12Y7vBYCQ1roMMzsuJw=/0x132:3775x2649/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49401525/usa-today-8889864.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The TCU QB did not finish his career the way he had hoped, and that stigma has followed him this off-season. The question is: where will he play on the field?</p> <p>He was supposed to ride out on a white horse, or a Duck. The Alamo Bowl should have been Trevone Boykin's swan song, one last rewriting of the record books, one final chapter in what had become an almost storybook career. But, it was not meant to be.</p>
<p>We all know the story of course; the late night bad decision that turned into a season and possibly career-altering mistake. We know what happened in the months since; the seemingly non-stop work with QB guru, and former Cowboy, Richard Bartel, the vines of the 70 bombs thrown with just a flick of the wrist, the improved footwork, the promise of a more complete quarterback being delivered to Indianapolis. But the Combine didn't go quite as planned; Boykin showed off his excellent arm strength and was better than expected in the passing drills, but his 40 time (4.77) was far below expectation and left him in the upper middle of pack for QBs and near the bottom half for wide receivers. For a player who made his name on elusiveness, his straight line speed left something to be desired.</p>
<p><b>The Past:</b></p>
<p>Trevone Boykin might be the kid who leaned down to a little girl in Ames and won over a fanbase and a nation with a simple question. He might be the young man who stopped after a brutal and demoralizing loss in Stillwater to greet OSU fans with a hug and a handshake. Is he the player who ran summer workouts, earning the trust of his teammates and perfecting his chemistry with Josh Doctson on their way to becoming the best QB-WR tandem in TCU history? Or... is he the person who snuck back out after curfew, got in a fight that left him with an assault charge and a bus ticket back home just days before what should have been his last collegiate game? Until that point, the one thing that nobody question was his leadership and locker room presence. He was THE GUY for TCU for the past two seasons, and even before he became a star, he was someone that Gary Patterson could count on to do whatever was asked of him - quarterback, running back, wide receiver, punt returner... he probably would have kicked extra points if asked. He didn't get angry when Matt Joeckel was brought in to take his job - he attached himself to the transfer from A&M and soaked up his knowledge to the point that he overtook him on the depth chart.</p>
<p>What we can definitely say is that Tre the player set almost every TCU passing record in the past two seasons, as he threw for 64 touchdowns and ran for another 17 over the course of those two years. He showed off a beautiful deep ball, great instinct, and a flair for the dramatic, drawing praise from opposing coaches and players on a regular basis.</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WymPsEDRsuI" frameborder="0"></iframe></p>
<p>He was the face of TCU Football, a finalist for several national awards, a Heisman candidate, and one of the most exciting players in college football.</p>
<p><b>The Present:</b></p>
<p>Tre has been training non-stop since his TCU career came to a close, trying to prove that his small-ish hands and short stature can be overcome at the next level. He showed off his improved footwork and touch on the intermediate ball at his Pro Day, and has continued to draw the interest of talent evaluators as he looks to clear his name from the December incident while also proving he can be an effective QB in the NFL. In addition to all of that, he has worked on his route running and food speed in an effort to keep his options open as a wide receiver prospect in case his dreams of playing under center don't materialize.</p>
<p><b>The Future:</b></p>
<p>I'm not a big fan of the Combine, I'll just say it. I have never understood, how in this day of advanced stats and metrics, the Underwear Olympics remain the go to measuring stick of a collegiate player. To me, the number one most important evaluation is game tape, and Trevone Boykin has a lot of great tape from the past two years.</p>
<p>Anyone who has followed his career has seen it; the smoothness in the pocket, the growth as a passer - and he still has room to grow, don't get me wrong, but look how hard he has been willing to look and how far he has come to this point - the dedication, the love of the game, the headiness on the field... this kid is a quarterback, there's no doubt in my mind. I have zero argument for a team that makes the decision to take Boykin off the board for his transgression in San Antonio - he did the crime, that's his penance to pay, if that's what a team wants to use as a determining factor. But those that are either willing to look past that incident, have accepted his apology and believe it was an isolated incident and not a pattern of behavior, yet still take him off the board because he's a little shorter than what they think a QB should be? Or because he runs a little slower than you want in spandex? That's just dumb, frankly. There is such a thing as game speed, and there isn't a passer coming out in this draft that runs faster or moves quicker in pads than Tre. He played against some of the best pass rushers in the draft over the past two years, and lit up just about every single one of them. Size? Russell Wilson, Drew Brees, Tyrod Taylor? Three guys who fall on the wrong size of 6' tall and are doing just fine, thank you very much. Is he a system guy? That's for a team to judge, but he has proven time and time again he can make every throw and has plus arm strength as far as the NFL is concerned.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><a href="http://www.nfl.com/combine/profiles/trevone-boykin?id=2555412">Lance Zierlein, NFL.com</a><span>: "He might be written off as too small or a "system quarterback", but he has shown tremendous growth as a passer and leader while building an impressive resume over the last two seasons. Boykin throws with some anticipation and has the arm talent and mobility to warrant a late-round pick even if he will need extended work learning to read defenses. There is a chance that his arrest at the end of the year could prevent him from being drafted."</span></p>
</blockquote>
<p>Oh... and I would be remiss to not talk about his presence in the huddle and his toughness. What he did against Baylor in the driving rain, and on one leg, would have gone down in history if the weather hadn't stolen the show. He's been incredibly durable for a guy who has run as much as he did, and his patent-pending end zone flips looked like they should take him out, but he bounced up time and time again.</p>
<p><b>The Fit:</b></p>
<p>Tre would be well served to go to a team that is willing to let him develop some; he is far from a finished product, but has shown he is coachable and a quick study. The offensive system he joins could be a difference maker as far as his future success is concerned, and a team running some version of the West Coast offense could be ideal.</p>
<p>I think Boykin will be drafted; he's too good off an athlete and has too good of a resume not to be. Some team, probably late in the sixth round, will fall in love with him and deem him worth the pick. San Diego, the Jets, Buffalo, and the Cowboys would all be interesting fits - San Diego and Dallas have older QBs but aren't in an immediate rush to get the next guy ready. There is plenty of buzz as far as Tre staying home and going to the Cowboys is concerned, and their needs at wide receiver and on special teams could give him multiple opportunities for success.</p>
<p>Count me among those that believe in Trevone Boykin. He made a truly bad decision, and the consequences are deserved. But I still believe in the young man I saw over the course of five years in Fort Worth, and am not willing to write him off for what happened that night. I hope he finds the right fit, the right staff, and the right support system to give him an excellent chance at success going forward.</p>
https://www.frogsowar.com/2016/4/27/11498226/tcu-draft-profile-trevone-boykinMelissa B. Triebwasser2016-04-26T10:30:03-05:002016-04-26T10:30:03-05:00TCU Draft Profile: Derrick Kindred
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/cZtUznb3X6BuiLnlNNrGcZxMHIk=/19x0:3936x2611/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49389415/usa-today-8824819.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The safety has been rocketing up draft boards after great combine and pro day results.</p> <p>Derrick Kindred's season might have been defined by an image that he wasn't in.</p>
<p> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt="boykin o face" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/dhZzf5kku_1wxdcqwXMxIdiLTqw=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4176544/BOOOYKIN.0.0.gif">
</figure>
</p>
<p>The Boykin emoji face took off on the internets, but it's the hit that deserved the attention. That hit. The straight shoulder to the chest that put the Iowa State player on his back so quickly that he probably didn't even realize what had happened. That hit. With a shoulder that we later learned had been fractured in fall camp leading the way. That hit. That came at a moment in the game where the Frogs had been struggling on the road, in a game they had to win, that changed the momentum and made sure his team was victorious. That hit. Not unlike his <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SF1SZWLEL9I" target="_blank">pick six against Kansas State</a>, that saved the game and the season, Kindred made a play when his team needed it most. He just has that 'it' factor.</p>
<p>Leading up to the Combine, the biggest questions surrounding the man nicknamed "Peanut" by Trevone Boykin were surrounding his size and speed. He measured as expected, at 5'10" and 207, but outperformed projections by running a 4.50 40 yard dash. Where he truly impressed was off the field, after it was revealed during the lead up to the Alamo Bowl that he had broken his collar bone three days before the season began. That toughness leapt of the page for scouts, and kept his name in the news cycle while he was in Indy. It also made him an intriguing special teams prospect; a player who could make an immediate impact on the return teams and possibly develop into a rotational player down the line.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><a href="http://www.nfl.com/combine/profiles/derrick-kindred?id=2555540">Lance Zierlein, NFL.com</a><span>: "There's toughness, and then there's Derrick Kindred. During the 2015 Alamo Bowl press conference, he stated he broke his collarbone three days before the start of his senior season, but decided to play through the injury. It's difficult enough to play a thumper at the safety position, which Kindred is, with a mostly healthy body. But to be a first-team All-Big 12 defensive back with 87 tackles, 3.5 for loss, two interceptions and three pass breakups -- well, that's pretty impressive."</span></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><a href="http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1996855/derrick-kindred">Dane Brugler, NFLDraftScout.com</a><span>: "Kindred has above average straight-line speed for the position, which shows on kickoff and punt coverages, but he plays with some stiffness and struggles to anticipate routes. Although his coverage limitations lowers his pro ceiling, Kindred has the grit and competitive nature to make a roster as a back-up and special teamer."</span></p>
</blockquote>
<p>So where does a tough as nails thumper with off the charts intangibles and below average measurables fall in the draft?</p>
<p>Most project DK to fall to the third day of the draft, somewhere between the fifth and seventh rounds. I get the feeling someone has fallen in love with him as a prospect, and is going to pull the trigger early on day three. I really like him as a fit on a couple different teams - the Raiders, the Bills, the Chargers, the Cardinals, and the Rams. Each have prioritized football IQ, leadership, and toughness in their recent draft picks. Each have coaches on the defensive side of the ball who have given players like Kindred the opportunity to succeed. And each have needs in the secondary as far as depth is concerned. In the fifth round, the Raiders could scoop him up with pick 154, and the Cards and Chargers both have compensatory picks at the end of the round. One other team to watch? New England, who holds the last pick of the sixth round. Belichick has employed several Horned Frogs in the past, and has had nothing but praise for Gary Patterson's program over the years.</p>
<p>DK may be a bit of a project, as far as the NFL is concerned, but there's no doubt in my mind that the toughest Former Frog will find a way.</p>
https://www.frogsowar.com/2016/4/26/11497814/tcu-draft-profile-derrick-kindredMelissa B. Triebwasser2016-04-25T12:30:03-05:002016-04-25T12:30:03-05:00TCU Draft Profile: Kolby Listenbee
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/_7bDFXxlIFY9skXy0UTQwG-7ICA=/0x24:3271x2205/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49375783/usa-today-8899739.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>TCU's fun-loving deep threat could be quite the steal for the NFL team that drafts him.</p> <p><i>Editor's Note: In the days leading up to the 2016 NFL Draft, we will be profiling the TCU football graduates who hope to hear their name called this weekend. Next up: one of the fastest players in college football, who could be a game breaker at the next level.</i></p>
<p>No matter where Kolby Listenbee ends up going, seeing him drafted will be particularly special for me.</p>
<p>During my senior year at TCU (the 2014 season), I collected a bunch of football trading cards with a picture of a player at the front and the 2014 season schedule at the back. The cards were pretty -- each had a shiny silver border around the edges and the 2014 slogan "Amp It Up" written in reflective, metallic lettering. I made it a mission to get all of them signed somehow.</p>
<p>That semester, I happened to have a communications class with Kolby, which he eventually dropped, but we still kept in touch occasionally via social media. Kolby didn't have a trading card yet, as he wasn't the biggest name on the team at the time, but we joked that he could sign my Kolby Listenbee card once it existed.</p>
<p>By November, I only had one signature -- BJ Catalon. Then my main man Jaden Oberkrom hit the game-winning field goal against West Virginia. I jokingly (and somewhat seriously) asked Kolby to get a signature for my Jaden Oberkrom card. Kolby said he'd not only get Jaden's signature but signatures from all the other players whose cards I had. <i>Well how cool is that</i>, I thought. So I handed Kolby my "collection."</p>
<p>Over the next several weeks, I made sure to consistently bug him about it. I must've become annoying at some point. We began to talk less, and since he dropped the class, I saw him less often. Nonetheless, it took some time before I discovered the whereabouts of my football cards.</p>
<p>But it was okay. Kolby had more important things to worry about.</p>
<p>We'll come back to that story later.</p>
<h5>The Buzz</h5>
<p>A self-proclaimed <a target="_blank" href="http://www.frogsowar.com/2015/8/13/9152009/listenbee-was-once-a-freshman-with-no-confidence">"freshman with no confidence,"</a> Listenbee's first two seasons at TCU were rather quiet. He played nine games in his first year, recording just one catch for the whole season. Sophomore year wasn't much different -- in seven games, he had just two receptions.</p>
<p>Things changed come junior year. Listenbee bloomed into a starting position and became one of the best receivers on the team, recording 41 receptions for 753 yards and four touchdowns. When Trevone Boykin sent the ball deep down the left sideline, you could guess who the target was -- Listenbee.</p>
<p>His 2014 Peach Bowl performance, in particular, was one for the highlight reel. In the first quarter, he channeled his former high school quarterback self and threw a 31-yard touchdown pass on a trick play. Later, he'd catch a tight 35-yard touchdown pass while double-teamed by Ole Miss defenders.</p>
<p><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CsGY8lRrd9s" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"><br></iframe></p>
<p>The following spring, Listenbee took his talents to the track team, posting his best 100-meter dash time at a wind-aided 10.03 seconds and helping the 4x100 relay team win the Big 12 Championship.</p>
<p>When football season came back around, Listenbee was dubbed <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nfl.com/photoessays/0ap3000000496478">"college football's fastest player"</a> and poised to make an impact as a senior wide receiver. Sadly, his potential couldn't be reached as his playing time was cut short due to injury. He missed two games but still managed to finish with 30 catches for 597 yards, five touchdowns and a team-leading average of 19.9 yards per catch.</p>
<h5>The Sting</h5>
<p>Despite the injury, Listenbee came out of TCU with legitimate draft potential. One thing was for sure -- his track experience was going to boost his resume. Speed became Listenbee's most touted trait, and he proved why at the NFL Combine.</p>
<p>Listenbee's 40-yard dash clocked in at 4.39 seconds, the second-best time among wide receivers and eighth-best time among all positions. He was a top performer in the broad jump as well.</p>
<p>All this...while still recovering from injury.</p>
<p>It goes to show that the team that picks Listenbee will get a gritty, fast and energetic receiver who can get open and make catches in tight windows. If he can prove he's more versatile than just being a deep threat, he has potential to be that third-round pick that winds up becoming a household name.</p>
<h5>The Future</h5>
<p>Many analysts consider Listenbee to be a mid-round draft pick, likely third round. Some have him going to teams like the Indianapolis Colts and Cleveland Browns. He's also been seen <a target="_blank" href="http://www.frogsowar.com/tcu-lookit/2016/3/3/11151494/listenbee-is-wearing-bucs-gear-and-it-probably-doesnt-mean-anything">wearing Tampa Bay Buccaneers gear</a>, not that it necessarily means anything.</p>
<p>If there's any team in desperate need of wide receiver depth, it's the Houston Texans. But the Texans are highly likely to take a receiver in the first round -- some even say it's going to be Josh Doctson -- so the chances of the Texans grabbing Listenbee in a later round are slim. Either way, Listenbee may not be ready to start right out of college, so he's better off in a team that'll give him the chance to develop and polish his route tree.</p>
<p>Still, Listenbee has so much potential that a spot on an NFL team has got to be somewhere in the cards.</p>
<h5>The Cards</h5>
<p>Ah yes, the cards. After TCU's 2014 regular season ended, finals week hit. I finished my last test, and with a grand hurrah, I headed home with no plans to return to campus until January. I hadn't gotten the cards back yet, but it wasn't a big deal. All I cared about was going home and enjoying the holidays.</p>
<p>Then I got a message from Kolby. He had my cards, all signed, and he wanted to give them back before everyone left for the holiday break.</p>
<p><i>Aww man</i>, I thought. <i>He remembered!</i></p>
<p>I thanked him and told him to just drop the cards off in my professor's office, and he agreed. When I came back that January, I picked up the cards and thumbed through all of them...Trevone Boykin, Paul Dawson, Jaden Oberkrom...they were all there, all marked with Sharpie ink. I took a picture of them and sent a "thank you" message to Kolby.</p>
<p>"Anytime!' he replied.</p>
<p>That was one of my fondest, if not the fondest memory I have of Kolby Listenbee -- more than any touchdown or trick play. He could've been "that" football player who would toss the cards away or forget about them, but he wasn't. It was a simple gesture, getting a few trading cards signed, but it meant a lot to me.</p>
<p>It's just funny to think that a guy I used to have class with might end up in the NFL. Certainly I have my biases on where I think he should go, but honestly, the team doesn't matter to me.</p>
<p>So long as he never changes.</p>
<p> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/fwwM3sMQKnIgWv3Xv-o0gUF6Lww=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/6381547/10933915_4984961638316_4674430127906629394_n.0.jpg">
</figure>
</p>
https://www.frogsowar.com/2016/4/25/11486070/nfl-draft-profile-kolby-listenbeeSamantha Calimbahin