2008 NFL Draft Preview: Calais Campbell

Calais Campbell at 6'8 and 290lbs has the size pro scouts are looking for in a defensive end. The Miami Hurricanes product was once projected as a first round draft pick. Campbell and teammate Kenny Phillips hope to extend the U's streak of first round draft picks t o 14. This may be difficult for Campbell whose stock has been falling.

Calais Campbell had a disappointing season as did the Hurricanes. Calais was a "preseason All-American first-team selection and a favorite to win the Ted Hendricks Award (nation's top defensive end). Campbell had to settle for All-Atlantic Coast Conference honorable mention," according to NFLDraftScout.com. His stock has fallen due to his performance at the NFL Combine and his Pro Day results. He did no better than 5 seconds in the 40 yard dash and only 16 reps at the 225lb bench press. NFLDraftScout.com says "Campbell lacks the speed scouts are looking for in a first-round pick. And in posting just 16 repetitions of 225 pounds, he may lack the strength."

Even with the poor workouts, NFLDratScout.com has Campbell listed as the 5^th best defensive end in the 2008 draft. Before the workouts Foxsports.com had Calais as a first round pick, possible NFL starter, and had him ranked as the second best defensive end in the draft. Slipping to the late first round or second round would give several teams a chance to take Campbell in the draft.

Being a junior coming out early, one would have to question his work ethic and desire with these poor workouts. Calais needs to get back to his pre-workout 40 times and would benefit with more strength training. Campbell being a junior would be a possible strength. His size is a definite advantage. A 6'8 frame can disrupt the quarterback's vision on the line and can give him a leverage advantage. However, the NFL is not college and he could benefit from improved strength training. He has played in a big time conference against big time opponents. Now it is just a matter of moving up to the next level.

Sources:

nfldraftscout.com

foxsports.com