DT: Amobi Okoye, Louisville

[Merk]

http://postpix.palmbeachpost.com/images/photos/100044/2006/09/16/gallery/1431748.jpg

Height/Weight: 6-2/302

Combine: 40: 5.06 Bench: 29 10yd: 1.66 20yd: 2.89 Verticle: 30 Broad: 9-2 3-cone 7.48

I think the Bills will be intrigued by Okoye b/c its not often you can find a player that has played 4 years of college ball and is 19 years old. He is also the leader of the defense and is a high character player. But w/ Okoye IMO you cant expect the immediate contribution that you could w/ say Branch. I wouldnt be dissapointed w/ Okoye but I wouldnt expect much his first or second year but the prospect of having such a young DT that you can mold into what you want and might have on your roster for the next decade and only be 30 at the end of it is tempting



Official Bio: (http://uoflsports.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/okoye_amobi00.html)

Has grown up in the Cardinals' football program... signed with Louisville when he was 15... big, strong athlete who'll bolster the defensive line... has gotten better each season... runs well for his size... run-stopper the Cardinals' need to keep their steady improvement on defense.

Career Notes: Has played in 35 games, including 11 as a starter... burst on the scene in 2003 as the youngest player in the NCAA at 16 years of age.

2005: Registered 23 tackles and four tackles for loss... recorded four tackles against West Virginia... returned to action versus North Carolina and recorded one tackle... didn't play against Florida Atlantic because of a foot sprain... notched three tackles against South Florida... registered two tackles and recovered a fumble versus Kentucky.

2004: Appeared in 11 of 12 games... recorded 26 total tackles and a sack... didn't play versus ECU because of a shoulder injury... made only collegiate start versus Army and responded with a career-high seven tackles... recorded one tackle in the season opener against Kentucky.

2003: The youngest player in college football at 16 years old... one of eight true freshman to earn time... played in all 13 games at defensive tackle... credited with 17 tackles, two tackles for loss and a sack... recorded a career-best four tackles against Tulane... registered three tackles versus Army and Memphis... notched first career sack versus UTEP.

Lee High School: Originally hails from Anambra, Nigeria ... extremely bright ... size, speed and work ethic are pluses ... tested into the ninth grade as a 12-year-old when his family moved to Huntsville from Nigeria ... played three years of prep football ... took up the sport as a sophomore, knowing next to nothing about the game ... started 13 games on the defensive line as a 13-year-old ... played both ways, earning honorable mention all-state honors as a junior ... logged 60 tackles and nine sacks, earning first-team All-State honors on both sides of the ball as a senior.

Personal Profile: Son of Augustine and Edna Okoye... born 6/10/87... Psychology major.


Defense
Year GP U A T TFL Sacks FR FF Int PB
2003 13-0 9 8 17 2-3 1-2 0-0 0 0-0 0
2004 11-1 11 15 26 2-4 1-2 0-0 0 0-0 0
2005 11-10 10 13 23 4-17 0.5-4 3-0 0 0-0 0
Totals 35-11 30 36 66 8-24 2.5-8 3-0 0 0-0 0

http://www.nflfans.com/x/gallery/files/4/amobiokoye.gif

[Merk]

VS West Virgina


He went up against Mozes who is a first day IOL in 2007

-Struggles w/ doubles at the POA
-Needs to stay lower, he can get high at times which leads him to be driven off the ball
-Uses his hands well
-Uses good leverage
-Projects better as a 3 tech DT
-He has good insticts
-He is a senior in college at only 19 years old so he has got some room to grow.

[Callaway]

I like this kid

[Merk]

Good night to watch him vs a strong running team Rutgers tonight



He is avg-below avg against the run and a strong showing tonight could help his draft stock

[BillsCAfan]

What do you guys think about him?

He seems to have good bulk at 320 pounds and is quite quick. I've seen him play a few times but never paid too much attention to him.

His scouting reports say he's pretty stout against the run, and I think most of us know that he'll come in as a 20 year old rookie, and has plenty of upside.

How would you feel if he was out first round pick??

[WhiteRabbit]

I think we should draft him in the first round if he falls to us.

I said it in some other thread a while back.

[BuffaloSoldier2]

I love this guy and has the character that Marv loves. The fact he was a captain of a major college team at 18 blows my mind. I'm not sure where he is rated in the draft (and I think 12th would be a little high for him) and I definitely won't have a problem with that at all. His potential is unlimited. A DT rotation of Tripplett, Williams, McCargo, and Okoye sounds good to me.

[Merk]

The scouting reports are off on him IMO



Hes not very good against the run and really struggles when doubled


The main reason his stock is so high is b/c hes 19 and has a lot of upside and growth possibility

[BillsCAfan]

Branch or Okoye if you had the choice?

Personally I like Willis with our first, but I think any of those three would help us.

I guess I'm just intrigued by Okoye's upside, he's so mature, developed and strong at such a young age. His body has yet to peak.

[WhiteRabbit]

Branch or Okoye if you had the choice?

Personally I like Willis with our first, but I think any of those three would help us.

I guess I'm just intrigued by Okoye's upside, he's so mature, developed and strong at such a young age. His body has yet to peak.

Okoye is my top choice.

[gilchristfan]

The scouting reports are off on him IMO



Hes not very good against the run and really struggles when doubled


The main reason his stock is so high is b/c hes 19 and has a lot of upside and growth possibility


I only saw him once, in the bowl game, and wasn't overly impressed. He wasn't horrible, I just don't know if he can do it on the next level, at least right away. I read that he lost alot of weight this year, so I don't think he was playing at the 315 level.

At 19, he'll have room to grow naturally. I think he could be good, but not for a year or two.

[Merk]

Branch or Okoye if you had the choice?

Personally I like Willis with our first, but I think any of those three would help us.

I guess I'm just intrigued by Okoye's upside, he's so mature, developed and strong at such a young age. His body has yet to peak.



I would take Branch and I think he is the Bills number 1 target but I dont think he will be there


I also think the Bills will be intrigued by Okoye b/c its not often you can find a player that has played 4 years of college ball and is 19 years old. He is also the leader of the defense and is a high character player. But w/ Okoye IMO you cant expect immediate contribution that you could w/ say Branch. I wouldnt be dissapointed w/ Okoye but I wouldnt expect much his first or second year but the prospect of having such a young DT that you can mold into what you want and might have on your roster for the next decade and only be 30 at the end of it is tempting


I like Willis a lot but if we could get Branch or Dorsey in the first and then a LB like D.Harris in the second or maybe R.Alexander if he falls and I would be really happy b/c I think that would go a long way to fixing our run D

[emo]

I think that worrying about the run defense is overblown.

williams is going to gain about 10 pounds, is already stout at the point of attack and will just get stronger.

the bills didn't draft mccarg and sign triplett so they could all play 1 down a piece so drafting a dt to play a single down is a tremendous waste.

I'll take thomas over willis every single day and twice on sundays, but even without him I think lb corps is fine and crowell is moving inside.

when you have teh 12th pick you need to take the best possible player you can

[treydawg]

If the Bills draft this guy I'll be furious.

[BillsCAfan]

I like Willis a lot but if we could get Branch or Dorsey in the first and then a LB like D.Harris in the second or maybe R.Alexander if he falls and I would be really happy b/c I think that would go a long way to fixing our run D

Merk, you really sold on Dorsey's run-stopping ability??

[BillsCAfan]

I think that worrying about the run defense is overblown.

williams is going to gain about 10 pounds, is already stout at the point of attack and will just get stronger.

the bills didn't draft mccarg and sign triplett so they could all play 1 down a piece so drafting a dt to play a single down is a tremendous waste.

I'll take thomas over willis every single day and twice on sundays, but even without him I think lb corps is fine and crowell is moving inside.

when you have teh 12th pick you need to take the best possible player you can

I don't think our run-defense needs is overblown.

We need a big guy in the middle who won't get manhandled and can take on blockers.

This year with our DTs, O-Guard mauled us and then got to our LBs leaving running holes like no other. We need a big DT to take on blockers.

If we had signed Pickett last year our run defense would have been much better than it is now and I don't think DT would have been a first round priority.

[JLB]

If the Bills draft this guy I'll be furious.

Who do you like first round?

[Merk]

Merk, you really sold on Dorsey's run-stopping ability??



I'm more sold on his ability to penatrate. I still think we are missing a key component to this defense and that is a dominate 3 tech DT in the mold of Sapp and T.Harris. Those two defend the run by getting to the RB before he gets to the line. Untill we find that guy I dont think the D can ever reach its full potential. I think Tripplett is solid but we need more from that spot than he is giving us.

[Buffalo1]

I do worry a bit about Okoye being only 19 and thrown into the nfl, it is a big jump. It does leave him lots of room to grow but it also leaves him open to many other difficulties in adapting to a new life. Unfortuneatly, all I can think about is Manny Wright crying on the Dolphin sideline because he got yelled at.

[JLB]

I do worry a bit about Okoye being only 19 and thrown into the nfl, it is a big jump. It does leave him lots of room to grow but it also leaves him open to many other difficulties in adapting to a new life. Unfortuneatly, all I can think about is Manny Wright crying on the Dolphin sideline because he got yelled at.

I remember that not good its amazing just 19 years old.

[BillsCAfan]

I'm more sold on his ability to penatrate. I still think we are missing a key component to this defense and that is a dominate 3 tech DT in the mold of Sapp and T.Harris. Those two defend the run by getting to the RB before he gets to the line. Untill we find that guy I dont think the D can every reach its full potential. I think Tripplett is solid but we need more from that spot than he is giving us.

I don't know.

I think Tripplett is really good penetrator and I think McCargo will develop as such. The reason why I think you didn't see much out of Tripp is because he was overwhelmed having no big DT beside him taking on guards. I think we have our pass-rushing DTs in Trip and McCargo and they can collapse the pocket pretty wel. We just need a big fat boy to stand his ground and command frequent double teams from Guard/Centers and allow Trip/McCargo and Schobel to rush and collapse the pocket like hell.

[BillsCAfan]

I do worry a bit about Okoye being only 19 and thrown into the nfl, it is a big jump. It does leave him lots of room to grow but it also leaves him open to many other difficulties in adapting to a new life. Unfortuneatly, all I can think about is Manny Wright crying on the Dolphin sideline because he got yelled at.

Well the difference between Wright and Okoye are huge. Wright got kicked off the team and had to enter the Supp draft. He's just another talent guy with the wrong brain. Okoye on the other hand is very smart. He tested into the 9th grade at 12, which is why he is so young. He has 4 years of college under his belt which is unheard of at his age, and was the captain of his team at 18. I think his transition into the NFL will be no different than any other player who comes in 1-2 years older.

[Merk]

I don't know.

I think Tripplett is really good penetrator and I think McCargo will develop as such. The reason why I think you didn't see much out of Tripp is because he was overwhelmed having no big DT beside him taking on guards. I think we have our pass-rushing DTs in Trip and McCargo and they can collapse the pocket pretty wel. We just need a big fat boy to stand his ground and command frequent double teams from Guard/Centers and allow Trip/McCargo and Schobel to rush and collapse the pocket like hell.



That would be fine but I dont think Okoye is that guy from what I have seen of him. I think the only player that can fill that role and have an immediate impact in that role is Branch if we leave FA'cy out of the equation. At this point I dont see Branch getting passed Washington. Mebane from Cali is a pretty good run stopper but he is only 300 pounds and doesnt fit the fat boy mold, but he could be had in the 2nd imo. Its tricky b/c there is alot of ways the Bills can go w/ that first rounder and they would be justified in most cases

[Buffalo1]

Well the difference between Wright and Okoye are huge. Wright got kicked off the team and had to enter the Supp draft. He's just another talent guy with the wrong brain. Okoye on the other hand is very smart. He tested into the 9th grade at 12, which is why he is so young. He has 4 years of college under his belt which is unheard of at his age, and was the captain of his team at 18. I think his transition into the NFL will be no different than any other player who comes in 1-2 years older.

He seems very promising and still has room to grow. It will prove to be an interesting story in the draft, I'm sure it will get beaten into our heads over and over come draft day .:poundu:

[BillsCAfan]

That would be fine but I dont think Okoye is that guy from what I have seen of him. I think the only player that can fill that role and have an immediate impact in that role is Branch if we leave FA'cy out of the equation. At this point I dont see Branch getting passed Washington. Mebane from Cali is a pretty good run stopper but he is only 300 pounds and doesnt fit the fat boy mold, but he could be had in the 2nd imo. Its tricky b/c there is alot of ways the Bills can go w/ that first rounder and they would be justified in most cases

Well the crop of DTs in FA sucks. I'm still upset over letting Pickett go, but that's done and we move on. I think Okoye has the size now where he can play the run-stuffing role as well as a pass-rusher, even though he won't hit his prime or be a difference maker for another year or two. I don't think Branch will fall to us either, and he may not even declare seeing as most of their team juniors want to come back next year.

But I do honeslty believe that we are one big run-stuffing DT away from our front 4 being an elite group. I think there is unneccesary pressure on Trip to take on more run-stuffing duties, and Schobel still gets double teams. If we can get a big guy to take the pressure of Trip, making him more dominant as a pass-rusher, then more attention will be given to him and allow Schobel more one-on-one opportunities. My dream draft would be Branch and B.Davis in the 1st-2nd round. That would shore up our run-defense pretty damn well.

[Buffalo1]

totally agree but I would not be opposed to seeing a top tier OL in the first either.

[treydawg]

Tripplett got no penetration other than that one game he got 2 sacks in.

[admarc]

That would be fine but I dont think Okoye is that guy from what I have seen of him. I think the only player that can fill that role and have an immediate impact in that role is Branch if we leave FA'cy out of the equation. At this point I dont see Branch getting passed Washington. Mebane from Cali is a pretty good run stopper but he is only 300 pounds and doesnt fit the fat boy mold, but he could be had in the 2nd imo. Its tricky b/c there is alot of ways the Bills can go w/ that first rounder and they would be justified in most cases

I agree Okoye is better slotted as a 3 tech guy. If they draft him it's to replace McCargo or Tripplet in the rotation at the 3 technique. He has the frame to gett bigger, but IMHO it would be a waste to ask him to bulk up to be a run stuffer.

I don't know if we need a 320+ pound guy on the nose, but they do need someone stout enough to push the pocket and hold up to double teams against the run.

Tank Tyler, Mebane and I think even Dorsey, provided he bulks up, can fit that role. However, I don't think any of those guys are worth the #12 pick. So if Branch isn't there I'd like the Bills to either take the best available iimpact guy on their board or trade down for one of the run stuffers. Depending on FA, the Bills will likely have many needs to fill. They need to find a fit for anyone of them with a player likely to make the biggest impact in the first. That being said, I really hope they don't go CB, RB or QB with the first pick, other than that I'm good with the bpa approach.

[JLB]

Anybody of interest here?


The Following Players Have Announced Their Intention To Forego the Remainder of Their College Eligibility and Declare for the 2007 NFL Draft.
Player Position College Class
Stanley Doughty
DT South Carolina JR
Chris Henry
RB Arizona JR
Charles Johnson
DE Georgia JR
Rory Johnson
OLB Ole Miss JR
Marshawn Lynch
RB California JR
Robert Meachem
WR Tennessee JR
Greg Olsen
TE Miami (FL) JR
Gary Russell
RB Minnesota JR
JaMarcus Russell
QB L.S.U. JR
Lawrence Timmons
OLB Florida St. JR
Danny Ware
RB Georgia JR
Dwayne Wright
RB Fresno St. JR
Eric Wright
CB UNLV JR

[Callaway]

I agree Okoye is better slotted as a 3 tech guy. If they draft him it's to replace McCargo or Tripplet in the rotation at the 3 technique. He has the frame to gett bigger, but IMHO it would be a waste to ask him to bulk up to be a run stuffer.

I don't know if we need a 320+ pound guy on the nose, but they do need someone stout enough to push the pocket and hold up to double teams against the run.

Tank Tyler, Mebane and I think even Dorsey, provided he bulks up, can fit that role. However, I don't think any of those guys are worth the #12 pick. So if Branch isn't there I'd like the Bills to either take the best available iimpact guy on their board or trade down for one of the run stuffers. Depending on FA, the Bills will likely have many needs to fill. They need to find a fit for anyone of them with a player likely to make the biggest impact in the first. That being said, I really hope they don't go CB, RB or QB with the first pick, other than that I'm good with the bpa approach.



I dont think that matters to Marv

[Mouldsie]

Merk beat me to it but..

1) Okoye is not big
2) Okoye is not good vs the run
3) Okoye is not on Branch's level
4) Okoye is like John McCargo only not as good but younger so he has "potential"

[treydawg]

Merk beat me to it but..

1) Okoye is not big
2) Okoye is not good vs the run
3) Okoye is not on Branch's level
4) Okoye is like John McCargo only not as good but younger so he has "potential"

right and this potential everyone gushes over is the fact is he's young. i just don't get the love affair with this kid.

[FknGvna]

The un-athletic big men are irrelevant these days that's why you hear people still rave over Grady Jacksons agility at his size. Been had him tagged as my no. 1.

[D-Rocafella]

Does this kid have any relation to former Chiefs running back Christian Okoye?

[Angus]

I agree Okoye is better slotted as a 3 tech guy. If they draft him it's to replace McCargo or Tripplet in the rotation at the 3 technique. He has the frame to gett bigger, but IMHO it would be a waste to ask him to bulk up to be a run stuffer.

I don't know if we need a 320+ pound guy on the nose, but they do need someone stout enough to push the pocket and hold up to double teams against the run.

Tank Tyler, Mebane and I think even Dorsey, provided he bulks up, can fit that role. However, I don't think any of those guys are worth the #12 pick. So if Branch isn't there I'd like the Bills to either take the best available iimpact guy on their board or trade down for one of the run stuffers. Depending on FA, the Bills will likely have many needs to fill. They need to find a fit for anyone of them with a player likely to make the biggest impact in the first. That being said, I really hope they don't go CB, RB or QB with the first pick, other than that I'm good with the bpa approach.

If Branch isn't there but Marshawn Lynch is, we should grab him right away. I just don't think the DT we need will be there and our other needs can be filled in the second and third. Thats where we should look for a G and a big fat DT like Paul Soliai or Stanley Doughty or even better, my favorite sleeper in the draft:

Howie Fuimaono DT UNLV 6'0" 333 lbs. http://draftseason.com/Howiefuimaonointerview

[twosheds]

Does this kid have any relation to former Chiefs running back Christian Okoye?

No. Both are from Nigeria but not related.

[bcw]

I'm curious if he is actually 19 years old.

I teach in a school with a large number of international students who came to the United States without birth certificates and no record of their true date of birth. It is possible that his mother, who is an educator, wanted him to be put into a lower grade so that he wouldn't be overwhelmed while ajusting in school.

I've just never heard of a 16 year old who is physically ready to play D-1 football.

[FknGvna]

Who cares, Whitner, Ko, Ellison, let's continue the trend. Let the kids grow together.

[bcw]

Who cares, Whitner, Ko, Ellison, let's continue the trend. Let the kids grow together.

I think it does matter if we are drafting him on potential. If we believe he is 19 I assume he is still developing into a grown man.

On the other hand, if he is actually 21 years old then he is no different from any other DT and should be drafted strictly on his production in college and compared on the same level field as all the other DT's coming out.

[treydawg]

He's probably actually 21-22. Anyone who drafts this kid based on his age is a moron.

[ricogarion]

A very flattering article on Amobi Okoye.
Some points and the link are as follows for those interested.

http://www.realfootball365.com/nfl/articles/2007/01/bills-okoye-ontheradar260107.html

By Connor J. Byrne on January 26, 2007 12:05 AM

Recognizing their defense is in dire need of a stopper up the middle, the Bills looked closely at ex-Louisville tackle Amobi Okoye earlier this week.

Remarkably, Okoye has already graduated from college with a psychology degree despite being just 19 years old. Ever since emigrating with his family to the United States at the age of 12, Okoye, a Nigeria native, has been bright both in the classroom and on the football field.

At the moment, many believe Okoye, depending on how Saturday's Senior Bowl Game and February's scouting combine go, will emerge as a top-five draft prospect. Buffalo, which has the 12th overall selection in April's draft, would be remiss not to select the All-American if he's still available.

[joelatte]

http://www.realfootball365.com/nfl/articles/2007/01/bills-okoye-ontheradar260107.html

[FknGvna]

Naw, they just read my posts.

[SabreNasty2630]

This pretty much means were not drafting him

[Carl J. Ironsides]

Yeah, I don't see him available at 12. Too bad.

[ricogarion]

Looks like we may have to merge this one with the same type post in the Bills War Room.

[Merk]

I'm tellin ya, even though I dont agree w/ it, Okoye is going to be a Buffalo Bill if hes there at 12.



I'm still in the process of mentally preparing myself for it :)

[Merk]

....Recognizing their defense is in dire need of a stopper up the middle, the Bills looked closely at ex-Louisville tackle Amobi Okoye earlier this week....


lol

They better look again b/c he is not the answer to our run defense problem

[emo]

lol

They better look again b/c he is not the answer to our run defense problem

what he can't be a 287 pound run stopper?


it never ceases to amaze me the hype machine that is scouting.

hey don't look at him getting blasted off the line of scrimmage regularly during the season, look at the fact that he's 19

don't mind that jamarcus russell, beats up on weak opponents and has bad numbers against good ones, he's tall big and has a huge arm, that the important thing

[ricogarion]

This kid has potential and promise.Lots to offer and smart to now thats a Marv Levy kinda guy!

[The Chosen]

I wouldn't blow up all of my Bills stuff if we drafted him. I just think we need to draft an immediate starter with the 12th pick. I am not so sure he will start and contribute right away for any team, let alone one with a line as bad as our. I think Patrick Willis is the safer pick at 12.

[Buffalo1]

This pretty much means were not drafting him

yup, theres our smokescreen, go ahead Miami take him.

[treydawg]

ill blow chunks if we draft him. bust written all over him.

[FknGvna]

ill blow chunks if we draft him. bust written all over him.

yeah, through the opposing Oline. :smileymob:

[Might]

Byrne is an idiot. Of course Okoye is on our radar... along with pretty much every other DT, LB, CB, OL, RB, and TE at the Sr Bowl.

This guy's article suggests that Buffalo's mind is made up.

[Callaway]

Its over we are drafting him

[Carl J. Ironsides]

Byrne is an idiot. Of course Okoye is on our radar... along with pretty much every other DT, LB, CB, OL, RB, and TE at the Sr Bowl.

This guy's article suggests that Buffalo's mind is made up.

If everyone else was on our radar, why didn't the Bills look at them? According to nfldraftcountdown, the Bills looked at Okoye and Manuel Ramirez. That's two guys, not the 110 or so that are at the game.

[ricogarion]

Hey C19 I am sure the Bills had more than two guys in their sites.

[voicekiller]

Good we need Willis anyways

[ricogarion]

That linebacker Patrick Willis has been on Mel Kipers radar since last spring when he had him rated 2nd best in his underclassmen ranking.Good player who will be on a lot of teams want list.

[bcw]

Kiper doesn't rate Willis in his top 25 at this point. I'd love to draft Willis but for some reason people have him falling into the 20's. Unfortunately that is right where NE picks.

[FinNasty]

Okoye blows... and is really overrated.

[FknGvna]

Big Daddy?

[ricogarion]

Kiper doesn't rate Willis in his top 25 at this point. I'd love to draft Willis but for some reason people have him falling into the 20's. Unfortunately that is right where NE picks.

If NE drafts him he will be an instant Pro Bowler!

[bcw]

I'm really scared we are going to draft Okoye. While I've read a million articles about his potential and him only being 19 he has bust written all over him.

I've only seen him play a couple games and I wasn't overly impressed but I guess I have to trust in our scouting department. If they feel he is a future star i guess they know more than I do and I'll have to accept their judgement. All I know is that we can't miss on this pick. In Marv we trust.

[BuffaloSoldier2]

I'm really scared we are going to draft Okoye. While I've read a million articles about his potential and him only being 19 he has bust written all over him.

I've only seen him play a couple games and I wasn't overly impressed but I guess I have to trust in our scouting department. If they feel he is a future star i guess they know more than I do and I'll have to accept their judgement. All I know is that we can't miss on this pick. In Marv we trust.

No offense, but your post makes no sense. Because he's 19, he has bust written all over him??? The fact that he is 19 and has plenty of room to grow and improve. So that should decrease the chances of his being a bust.

I think the thing everyone is missing is thinking that Okoye has to come in and be an instant starter and the man right away. Sure that would be great but the fact of the matter is he simply needs to be one of the guys. Tripplett, Williams, and hopefully a souped up McCargo will be there to show the kid the ropes.

I love Okoye and I ask the question, do you pass up on potentially the next Warren Sapp because he's only 19 and a little light? Personally, I don't. :sumo:

[BuffaloSoldier2]

Kiper doesn't rate Willis in his top 25 at this point. I'd love to draft Willis but for some reason people have him falling into the 20's. Unfortunately that is right where NE picks.

I like Willis too. He's got a great life story and seems like a player. However, I'm against taking LBs in the first round(especially MLBs) unless they are truly special in the Urlacher or Lewis mold. They are the RBs of the defense. You improve the line in from of them, you can get away with lesser name players back there.

My plan:
Draft Okoye
Never let Anderson play again
Franchise or sign Fletcher to a 2 year deal
Draft a MLB late on day one or early in day 2
Bam, Super Bowl defense :smileymob:

[BuffaloSoldier2]

Okoye blows... and is really overrated.

He's no Jason Allen, that's for sure. :sumo:

[Mouldsie]

Mayock said it best -based on tape Okoye is no more than a 2nd rounder but teams are falling in love with his youth and potential

[bcw]

No offense, but your post makes no sense. Because he's 19, he has bust written all over him??? The fact that he is 19 and has plenty of room to grow and improve. So that should decrease the chances of his being a bust.

I don't think he'll be a bust because he's only 19. I was just commenting about all of the articles that I have read about him only being 19.

The fear I have of him being a bust is for totally different reasons, first of which is the idea of drafting him for his potential rather than his actual play on the field. I don't think anyone would say that his play this past year is what got him to be a high first round pick.

Secondly, I'm scared he is a little light and we already have a couple DT's in his mold.

I certainly would love for him to become an all-pro DT as a Buffalo Bill but we have been burnt in the past with first round picks that never reached their potential. Call me conservative but I don't want to take that risk here.

[treydawg]

The Next Warren Sapp? Are You On Crack?!

[emo]

The Next Warren Sapp? Are You On Crack?!

I heard he's hte next warren sapp and jerome brown combined

[emo]

I also heard the bills are going to use their first on him, and then pick him again in the second

[twosheds]

Potential is an important factor in the draft, especially early on. At least that's what a lot of teams seem to be going for. That's why the scouting combine can have such an effect on the draft.

[FknGvna]

Come on Emo, say something.

[Mouldsie]

I like the kids attitude

[admarc]

I like the kids attitude

That's the thing I think I was most impressed with him about today. The 19 year old led the team in the pregame on-field pep talk and was very composed in the sideline interviews. The kid looks like a leader.

[Merk]

This kid had a great week and game but in the end he didnt do anything to change my opinion of him. Hes still exactly what I thought he was, a 3 tech DT. If thats what the Bills brass is looking for then they should take him and try to fill the NT posistion by some other ave. I'm not sure how. The FA class is pretty weak. They could draft him and bulk him up but then I think it would start to comprimise his greatest asset which is his quickness. Another option could be to have McCargo bulk up and switch him over.


Another thing to consider is this kids stock is sky rocketing at a V.Davis/J.Cutler level. Theres a chance he could go before we even pick. The Tampa Coaches seemed pretty enamoured w/ him and while I dont think they will take him at 4 they could get a nice set of picks/players if C.Johnson is sitting there at 4 and they start taking offers from teams to jump up. They could still move down w/in the top 10 and have Okoye. This would also benifit the Bills in a way b/c it would bump another player down that most were not expecting to drop

[Mouldsie]

I will say this, I would no longer be upset if we drafted him.

Perhaps that's an irrational thought (since one week changed my attitude of the past 8) but thats the way it is.

Still would need a NT though.

[FknGvna]

Weren't ya'll crying for than Sands guy, I don't think we need him though. Okoye, McCargo, Williams, Tripplett. At first everyone was crying about having DTs that can penetrate and disrupt the backfield. Now that we have the chance to get one or two, they want someone who can hold the line and beat double teams. WTF?

[treydawg]

He's too small and there is NOTHING special about him that he should be drafted in the 1st. Any other year he's a second rounder.

[BuffaloSoldier2]

He's too small and there is NOTHING special about him that he should be drafted in the 1st. Any other year he's a second rounder.

He's 19 years old.

He has started for one of the top teams in the country (a team with 1 loss this year) since he was 16.

He had 8.5 sacks this past year from a DT position.

He has no baby mamas and hasn't stated that the Bills should move to the T Dot.

He was named captain for the Senior Bowl over guys he was 3 to 4 years younger than.

But you're right. He only weighs 287 lbs. so there is nothing special about him. Great post. :bigasskiss:

[treydawg]

Okay, so the only reason he's special is he's 19. You don't even know if that really is his age. He's from Nigeria, he might actually be 21. The fact of the matter is the Bills don't have 4 years to sit and watch him grow. We need someone to step in immediately and help the defense. Louisville's defense sucks by the way, but I guess you'll just go by their offenses performance which has gotten them their ranking. Great post though!

[BuffaloSoldier2]

Okay, so the only reason he's special is he's 19. You don't even know if that really is his age. He's from Nigeria, he might actually be 21. The fact of the matter is the Bills don't have 4 years to sit and watch him grow. We need someone to step in immediately and help the defense. Louisville's defense sucks by the way, but I guess you'll just go by their offenses performance which has gotten them their ranking. Great post though!

Haha, I find you amusing. :bigasskiss:

I was gonna battle you with some #s of Warren Sapp when he was a 19 year old in the Big East. However on the way to destroying your post, I just happened to click on yahoo.com and guess who was the cover boy???

I never get my hopes of the Bills drafting a guy but I'm telling you, this kid is the real deal. He doesn't need to be the savior. He just needs to be one of the crew. Tripplet, Williams, McCargo, Okoye. More big bodies = Better run defense = playoffs. It's simple mathematics.

http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaaf/news?slug=ap-seniorbowl-okoye&prov=ap&type=lgns

MOBILE, Ala. (AP) -- Louisville defensive tackle Amobi Okoye wants to be a top 5 pick in the upcoming NFL draft, help his team to the Super Bowl as a rookie and do a good job managing all that money.

Being able to legally grab a beer with his teammates will have to wait a couple of years.

The 19-year-old Okoye will become the youngest player to compete in the Senior Bowl, a showcase for senior NFL prospects set for Saturday.

"This is where I'm supposed to be," he said. "It's nothing new to me."

Besides, Okoye is hardly an unproven commodity. He signed with Louisville's Bobby Petrino as a 15-year-old in Huntsville, Ala., and grew into a muscular 6-foot-2, 312 pounds.

His resume reads more like a high-tech prodigy than a football player: College at 16. Degree in 3 1/2 years. Job interviews with a couple of dozen prospective employers.

He started school at age 2 1/2 , skipped sixth grade and entered high school in Huntsville at 12 after his family moved from Nigeria.

And now on to the NFL, where he'll be facing offensive linemen who were playing high school ball before he was born.

"I'm ready for it," said Okoye, a second-team AP All-American. "It's going to be a challenge. Every time a challenge has been put before me, I've always been ready to accept the challenge and just go out there and do the best I can do.

"It's a lot of money for a 19-year-old. But that was my whole motivation last year. I wanted to be a 19-year-old millionaire. Hopefully I'll be that."

Okoye is projected as a likely first-round pick, and some NFL mock drafts have him going in the top 10.

It only took one Senior Bowl practice for Okoye to make an impression on North coach Jon Gruden.

"It's really unbelievable. He went out there and was knocking people around. He didn't look like he was 19," said Gruden, coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. "I've just got a tremendous amount of respect for him and how he's been raised. He's obviously a very smart guy to accelerate his academics the way he has. He may be young, but he is not lacking any physical attributes at this point."

Even with his hat turned backward and a somewhat skimpy goatee, the massive Okoye doesn't look 19. But given his age, teams are also going to gauge his mental maturity along with those physical skills.

"When you look at the tape, the guy's an explosive football player," Gruden said. "He really has a chance to play. You just worry about what he's going to do at night, 10 o'clock with no bed check. That's what I worry about with a 19-year-old kid. I worry about that more than anything else."

Teenagers with fat paychecks have been far more common in the NBA and pro baseball.

Okoye, however, points out a significant difference. Those guys either are fresh out of high school or have minimal college experience. He has been playing college ball since his first year out of high school and has a degree in psychology.

"I think college is something everybody should go through," Okoye said. "I learned a lot in college. I learned a lot about life, and I grew."

"He's very mature," said running back Kolby Smith, a Louisville and Senior Bowl teammate. "He's aware of everything that's going on around him. Like they say, he's wise beyond his years."

Okoye has big ambitions. He's "shooting for the first five" draft picks. He would love to follow in the New Orleans Saints' Reggie Bush's footsteps and play for a winning team as a rookie.

"I'm sure he definitely enjoyed his first year going to the NFC championship game," Okoye said. "Maybe I can do something like that and maybe go even further than that, to the Super Bowl."

He's used to people wondering if he'll be able to handle a big leap in competition and pressures at such a young age.

Okoye said that when Petrino was asked about his youngest signee four years ago, the coach "said he was going to wait until I started shaving before he played me.

"I went out there and showed him my capabilities and my talent, and he told them he went out and bought me a razor."

He played in all 13 games as a freshman. But he also showed glimpses of his potential upside with a breakout senior season.

Okoye had 23 tackles and half a sack as a junior. Those numbers jumped to 55 and eight last season, earning him unanimous selection as first-team All-Big East Conference.

Okoye wouldn't mind rejoining Petrino and position coach Kevin Wolthausen, both now with the Atlanta Falcons. The Falcons have the 10th overall pick.

"(Petrino) helped me out with a lot of things and I helped him out with a lot of things," Okoye said. "I think we have a pretty good relationship. My old position coach is here, too. I saw him this week.

"Seeing him kind of brought a smile to my face."

[FknGvna]

He's too small and there is NOTHING special about him that he should be drafted in the 1st. Any other year he's a second rounder.

Plus, it's not about where you're drafted, it's about who you draft.

[Merk]

DT John McCargo is close to being fully healthy from a foot injury that ended his rookie year and should be ready to participate in offseason workouts. The team's defensive line depth took a hit without McCargo, who was coming on at the time of his injury. McCargo is primarily a three-technique tackle, but the team believes he has the potential to play the nose. He can penetrate with quickness and does a good job against the run when he plays with leverage

http://www.buffalorange.com/showthread.php?t=106187

This makes Okoye more draftable to the Bills IMO. I'm was and still am completely against drafting him if they do so w/ the thought process that he is going to somehow help our run defense by lineing him up as a NT. A move like this would be saying they think McCargo can help the run D by switching him to the nose which I have questions about but at least Okoye would be put in place were he could be the most successful

[FknGvna]

Weren't ya'll crying for than Sands guy, I don't think we need him though. Okoye, McCargo, Williams, Tripplett. At first everyone was crying about having DTs that can penetrate and disrupt the backfield. Now that we have the chance to get one or two, they want someone who can hold the line and beat double teams. WTF?

[treydawg]

I'll be so pissed if they blow 2 first rounders on DTs.

[Merk]

Weren't ya'll crying for than Sands guy, I don't think we need him though. Okoye, McCargo, Williams, Tripplett. At first everyone was crying about having DTs that can penetrate and disrupt the backfield. Now that we have the chance to get one or two, they want someone who can hold the line and beat double teams. WTF?


Who wants Sands?

[emo]

Okay, so the only reason he's special is he's 19. You don't even know if that really is his age. He's from Nigeria, he might actually be 21. The fact of the matter is the Bills don't have 4 years to sit and watch him grow. We need someone to step in immediately and help the defense. Louisville's defense sucks by the way, but I guess you'll just go by their offenses performance which has gotten them their ranking. Great post though!

dead on, on every account.

he may not be 19

he got 5 sacks against stout offensive lines, of kentucky, cincy, cuse, and kstate. he also had 3 qb hurries all year. wow is that true...... looking again, yep ncaa.org

and before you mention his awesome performance in the senior bowl remember jay patterson from osu also had 2 sacks, jay moore from nebraska had 3

[treydawg]

right and these guys aren't nearly as physical as the ones in the nfl. he WILL get pushed around until he gets stronger. FRANKLY, I DONT WANT TO SIT AROUND ANOTHER YEAR WITH MY FINGER IN MY ASS WAITING FOR THE BILLS TO STOP LEON FRICKIN WASHINGTON!

[twosheds]

I'll be so pissed if they blow 2 first rounders on DTs.

I have no problem with investing heavily into the defense line. Makes it more likely that at least one works out, and if both do - we'd have a heck of a defense line.

[TigerJ]

This kid had a great week and game but in the end he didnt do anything to change my opinion of him. Hes still exactly what I thought he was, a 3 tech DT. If thats what the Bills brass is looking for then they should take him and try to fill the NT posistion by some other ave. I'm not sure how. The FA class is pretty weak. They could draft him and bulk him up but then I think it would start to comprimise his greatest asset which is his quickness. Another option could be to have McCargo bulk up and switch him over.


Another thing to consider is this kids stock is sky rocketing at a V.Davis/J.Cutler level. Theres a chance he could go before we even pick. The Tampa Coaches seemed pretty enamoured w/ him and while I dont think they will take him at 4 they could get a nice set of picks/players if C.Johnson is sitting there at 4 and they start taking offers from teams to jump up. They could still move down w/in the top 10 and have Okoye. This would also benifit the Bills in a way b/c it would bump another player down that most were not expecting to drop

An article at BuffaloBills.com by Chris Brown suggests that Buffalo thinks McCargo could easily play the one technique role on the team, which makes it more reasonable to think Buffalo could draft Okoye. I think Okoye could play that role too if he were to play at the weight he carried as a junior, 312 lbs.

[ricogarion]

Oh my this guy is getting huge revue's what is to say he will still be on the board when we get to the 12th pick?

[treydawg]

An article at BuffaloBills.com by Chris Brown suggests that Buffalo thinks McCargo could easily play the one technique role on the team, which makes it more reasonable to think Buffalo could draft Okoye. I think Okoye could play that role too if he were to play at the weight he carried as a junior, 312 lbs.

you mean when he was average and no one in the country cared about him?

[Merk]

Oh my this guy is getting huge revue's what is to say he will still be on the board when we get to the 12th pick?


If he has a good combine theres a good chance he will lock himself into the top 10.



Which brings about another question that will throw some fuel on this fire, what if the Bills trade up for him?? lolol


Let that little nugget sink in lol ;)

[treydawg]

If he has a good combine theres a good chance he will lock himself into the top 10.



Which brings about another question that will throw some fuel on this fire, what if the Bills trade up for him?? lolol


Let that little nugget sink in lol ;)
don't say it merk, don't say it! :(

[FknGvna]

I'm pretty sure we'd go after Mebane then. I'd take either.

[Figurita20]

Here's a link to all Senior practices, for those who don't have NFL channel

http://www.putfile.com/bonstonker/media

and here is a link that focuses on Okoye (interview) and DLs and OGs.

http://media.putfile.com/senior-bowl-recap

[Edwards2Evans]

Mel has Amobi going to Buffalo now.

I like going with another DT rather than a cb in the first.

thoughts?

[jaymitch84]

See sig.

[TigerJ]

I like Okoye, but I'm concerned that Buffalo is going to end up with a bunch of average to excellent three technique DTs, and no decent one technique DT. Everything I'm hearing lately suggests how important a good one technique DT is to have a good run defense in the Tampa 2 system. There is talk of moving McCargo to the one tech position, but we don't really know if he'll be effective there. Kyle Williams is an overachiever, and a good rotation player, but I have my doubts that he has enough upside to really be a solid starter, and Tim Anderson is a third round bust, plain and simple

[JP Losmania7]

i saw it also and i think it would be cool

[westphal]

Here's Mel's board as of now. This is based on who he thinks is rated best overall, not on which team will pick who:

1. Calvin Johnson*, WR, Georgia Tech (6-4, 225) | previous: Same
He's not only a tremendous athlete, but he's a hard worker and very team oriented. Based on the needs of the Raiders and Lions, Johnson might not be the No. 1 overall pick, but he won't fall out of the top five.

2. Joe Thomas, OT, Wisconsin (6-6½, 313) | previous: Same
Huge, quick and athletic with a long wingspan.

3. Adrian Peterson*, RB, Oklahoma (6-1½, 218) | previous: Same
The most talented running back in the draft with an excellent burst to the outside for his size. The concern with Peterson is his durability.

4. Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame (6-3½, 225) | previous: Same
Poised, smart and at his best in pressure situations. Quinn did throw two interceptions in the Sugar Bowl after throwing just one INT in his previous eight games.

5. JaMarcus Russell*, QB, LSU (6-6, 260) | previous: Same
Big, strong signal caller with a powerful arm, and his decision-making improved significantly in 2006.

6. Jamaal Anderson*, DE, Arkansas (6-5, 270) | previous: Same
A gifted athlete who is coming off an exceptional 2006 season. Anderson is a complete player, equally solid against the run and as a pass rusher.

7. Alan Branch*, DT, Michigan (6-5½, 328) | previous: Same
Huge and athletic, Branch is a true space eater along the interior. Once his technique improves, watch out!

8. Ted Ginn Jr.*, WR, Ohio State (5-11, 175) | previous: Same
Takes a backseat to no one in the speed department, brings a big-play dimension to the wide receiver position and also the return game.

9. Amobi Okoye, DT, Louisville (6-1½, 298) | previous: Same
A four-year veteran, and he is only 19 years old. Okoye is quick and explosive and goes all-out on every play. He is not only good at eating up space but also gets good penetration into the backfield.

10. Gaines Adams, DE, Clemson (6-4½, 260) | previous: Same
Flashes dominating ability with his athleticism and quickness. Adams led the Tigers with 10½ sacks and 15½ tackles for loss.

11. LaRon Landry, DB, LSU (6-1½, 205) | previous: Same
Four-year starter who has proven to be Mr. Reliable throughout his career.

12. Levi Brown, OT, Penn St. (6-4½, 325) | previous: 14
Steady and reliable at protecting the quarterback's blind side.

13. Charles Johnson*, DE, Georgia (6-2, 280) | previous: 15
Not only gifted from a pure talent standpoint, but he also has the work ethic to match. Johnson is active, alert and extremely productive.

14. Dwayne Jarrett*, WR, USC (6-4, 210) | previous: 13
Has the size and natural receiving skills to create mismatches against smaller cornerbacks. Jarrett also has better quickness out of his break than people give him credit for.

15. Adam Carriker, DE, Nebraska (6-6, 298) | previous: 16
You don't see many defensive ends carrying 300 pounds who can move as well as Carriker.

16. Reggie Nelson*, S, Florida (5-11½ 198) | previous: 12
Outstanding player who can hit like a safety and excel in coverage like a cornerback. That unique combination makes him a highly regarded prospect.

17. Leon Hall, CB, Michigan (5-11, 193) | previous: Same
Tough customer who also shows very good anticipation and awareness in coverage.

18. Dwayne Bowe, WR, LSU (6-2, 217) | previous: Same
Big and productive, Bowe runs excellent routes and has the toughness to catch the ball in traffic.

19. Lawrence Timmons*, LB, Florida St. (6-2¼, 233) | previous: 21
Moves right to the top of a very subpar linebacking group, particularly from the senior class. Timmons' production and consistency from game to game are what jumps out at you.

20. Robert Meachem*, WR, Tennessee (6-2½, 210) | previous: 19
Came through with a number of highlight-film plays in 2006. If he runs well at the combine, Meachem could elevate his status in the weeks leading up to the draft.

21. Sidney Rice*, WR, South Carolina (6-3, 200) | previous: 20
An angular wide-out with a nice burst out of his break and above-average hands. The key for Rice will be how well he runs at the combine workouts.

22. Aaron Ross, CB, Texas (6-0½, 196) | previous: 25
An instinctive tackler who has excellent ball skills. Ross led the Longhorns in 2006 with six interceptions and broke up 19 passes. He also finished third on the team in tackles with 80.

23. Anthony Spencer, DE, Purdue (6-2½, 261) | previous: 22
He became a much more effective pass rusher in 2006 for the Boilermakers. The key at the next level will be his athleticism and versatility, because I project he'll be an ideal outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense.

24. Tim Crowder, DE, Texas (6-3¼, 273) | previous: 23
Consistent and reliable in his career, but became more of a playmaker for the Longhorns in 2006.

25. Marshawn Lynch*, RB, California (5-11, 224) | previous: 24
Complete big back, right on the heels of Adrian Peterson when it comes to who will be the top RB in the draft.

[Merk]

I'd take pretty much anything over a CB in the first.

[westphal]

I'd take pretty much anything over a CB in the first.
I'd prefer an offensive lineman. Mel rates 2 in the top 12, then nothing past 25. Who knows where he rates the next one. But there seems to be a wealth of DEs and DTs in the draft, so mabye we can pick something up in the second round there.

I know some people don't have any faith in Mel, but he is really all I have to go by, and his opinion on talent usually corresponds to draft day. Anyway, he is a man with lot of inside connections. After all, this is far from an exact science.

[bcw]

I'm starting to become a little more comfortible with Okoye as our #1 pick. Everything depends on how FA goes. I'd prefer a LB but if the scouts think he is the real deal I'll trust their judgement.

#12 is too early for an OL since th only ones that will be there are tackles and I feel we are set there.

[FknGvna]

Some Rangers have been talking about Sims. I'm OK with that in FA.

[Gooseistheman24]

Branch wont be there at 12 but Im not anymore sold on him than I am Okoye. Branch is said to take off to many plays and has trouble putting forth a consistent effort. He never developed like he was expected to and is slated so high because of his size and lack of depth at DT in the draft. Okoye could easily gain more weight as he is lighter now than he was his previous 2 years of playing. There is no reason to believe McCargo is going to be good since we havent seen much of him. I wouldnt consider taking a DT 12th a mistake or exaggerating our run defense needs. U can never have enough quality lineman on either side of the ball.

[FknGvna]

Have you ever seen the hightlights of the Louisville, Rutgers game, Okoye all over the field; at full speed.

[FknGvna]

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/draft/2007-02-24-amobi-okoye_x.htm

INDIANAPOLIS — University of Louisville defensive tackle Amobi Okoye is a 19-year-old prodigy who goes by the nickname "Phee." That's short for phenom.

Everything about this fast-tracking whiz kid seems to distinguish Okoye as this draft's anti-Maurice Clarett.

Okoye's impressive maturity at such a young age has caused general managers, coaches, scouts and media members to do a double take upon meeting him. Unlike Clarett, the former Ohio State running back and a poster boy for bad choices and wasted potential, Okoye appears a true pioneer who is admired for his beyond-his-years focus and accomplishments.

He's a defensive captain, earned his degree in psychology after three and a half years, started school at 2½, skipped sixth grade, was a high school freshman at 12 and is the buzz of the Indianapolis scouting combine.

He fits the en-vogue Tampa 2 defense as a three-technique, one-gap tackle who lines up shaded between the center and guard. With an explosive first step, Okoye had eight sacks and 55 tackles last season for Louisville.

[Mouldsie]

He put on weight for the combine but looks absolutely chiseled. The hype has won me over in the last month or so. I would no longer throw a fit if we drafted him.

[FknGvna]

The Bills would like to add a defensive tackle via the draft or free agency. If Louisville senior Amobi Okoye fell to them with the No. 12 pick, he would be hard not to snag. Okoye is just 19 years old but was one of Louisville's captains last season. "He's 19 but he was productive and he had a great Senior Bowl week," ESPN analyst Mel Kiper, who has Buffalo taking Okoye in his latest mock draft, said during a national conference call with writers. "He was 325 pounds and now he's down to 287 ... With that fluctuation, you have to see where his weight will be in the NFL, but technique-wise and maturity-wise he's far ahead. He's a potential top-10 pick right now."

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/bills/home.htm


What scares me the most right now is that Bobby Patrino holds the 10th pick.

[bcw]

I'm starting to buy into the hype. I was dead set against drafting Okoye last month but he is getting respect from legitimate sources at this point and may be worth a shot with the #12 pick.

My question is, why was he playing at 325 last season? Is 287 more of his ideal weight? Will he have trouble keeping his weight up in the NFL if we ask him to play at 305?

[mighty peace warrior]

he is up to three bills now so i wont mind him as much

[TigerJ]

My question is, why was he playing at 325 last season? Is 287 more of his ideal weight? Will he have trouble keeping his weight up in the NFL if we ask him to play at 305?

You can make the opposite point. He was 287 at the senior bowl a month ago and gained 15 lbs of muscle in the last 4 weeks. That would seem to indicate he can carry that weight pretty easily.

[Merk]

You can make the opposite point. He was 287 at the senior bowl a month ago and gained 15 lbs of muscle in the last 4 weeks. That would seem to indicate he can carry that weight pretty easily.

I dont think its all muscle


Putting on 15 pounds of muscle in a month would be quite a feet

[emo]

he won't play at 305, he'll play at 287

[treydawg]

he won't play at 305, he'll play at 287

yep, and if so, i'd like to see him play at 305.

[bcw]

That is my point. If someone's weight fluctuates like that (lose 20 pounds in a few months, gain 15 pounds in a month) that leads me to believe the 20 pounds he lose in the 1st place was mostly fat. He didn't appear fat at the combine, though.

[FknGvna]

He lost the weight to perform at the combine. To increase his 40. Think people.

[treydawg]

He lost the weight to perform at the combine. To increase his 40. Think people.

huh? he weighs 15 more pounds than he did at the senior bowl. try and keep up with us here.

[FknGvna]

He was 287 AT the Sr. Bowl.

[emo]

and he is 305 now, so how did he lose weight?

[treydawg]

and he is 305 now, so how did he lose weight?

seriously, what the heck is going on in his head?

[emo]

he really loves amobi, I'm wondering if he IS amobi okoye

na dhe's trying to drum up groundswell support

[JP Losmania7]

according to Chris Borwn's blog:

OKOYE TO MEET WITH REDSKINS: For those Bills fans hoping that Amobi Okoye lasts until the Bills pick at 12 don't hold your breath. Washington is apparently very interested. They're reportedly hosting Okoye for an interview at Redskins Park this week. This is the time of year when teams will often have a handful of players come to their facilities if they never had the opportunity to interview them either at the combine or any one of the numerous postseason all-star games in an effort to know them better. It's unlikely that Okoye was overlooked by the Redskins, so my guess is this might be a face-to-face with owner Dan Snyder to perhaps see if he meets the head honcho's approval. I don't see how he couldn't. This DT is going to be a winner at the NFL level in my opinion.

Of course if the Redskins take Okoye at 6, I suppose Michigan's Alan Branch could slip, but Miami might grab the other top ranked DT at 9.




I know it doesnt matter if we are plannig on taking a RB but still if we werent then that sucks

[Carl J. Ironsides]

I don't think we'll take Okoye. In my opinion, it'll either be Willis, Lynch or Peterson, or Jarrett as a long shot.

I wouldn't rule out Landry either.

[jaymitch84]

War Room?

[jaymitch84]

I wouldn't rule out Landry either.

I would, unless there is something I don't know and the Bills think they need a serious upgrade from Ko.

[Carl J. Ironsides]

I would, unless there is something I don't know and the Bills think they need a serious upgrade from Ko.

Whitner could move to corner. Don't put it past Marv.

[jaymitch84]

Whitner could move to corner. Don't put it past Marv.

He's Marvelicious!

[Carl J. Ironsides]

He's Marvelicious!

lol.

[FknGvna]

a winner at the NFL level in my opinion.

Only if some of the Rangers had listened to me.

[beTough54]

I put the chances of the Bills taking a DT with the first pick at less than 10%... I think they are more than satisfied with Triplett, Williams, McCargo, and Anderson rotating.

That doesn't mean they should be satisfied with that, just that they probably see greater need elsewhere.

[FknGvna]

I put the chances of the Bills taking a DT with the first pick at less than 10%... I think they are more than satisfied with Triplett, Williams, McCargo, and Anderson rotating.

That doesn't mean they should be satisfied with that, just that they probably see greater need elsewhere.

Carefully..read the phrase in 'red' in my sig.

[Mouldsie]

If they were satisfied with Tiny Tim he wouldnt have been benched at the end of the year and he wouldnt have gotten the minimum tender.

[emo]

we need okoye he is the single greatest football player to come out of louisville hell out of college since gayle sayers, or maybe even the galloping ghost red grange, best nickname ever

[beTough54]

Carefully..read the phrase in 'red' in my sig.

I didn't say they shouldn't, just that they probably won't.

If they were satisfied with Tiny Tim he wouldnt have been benched at the end of the year and he wouldnt have gotten the minimum tender.

Regardless, you don't take a First Round DT to replace your fourth option in the rotation if you are a team with other holes to fill. I think they'll look to DT on the second day, much like last year.

[kdhammond]

I think that they should be considering DT early. I like Kyle Williams, but I don't know if he is a good answer as a starter. Williams may not get any better as he had tons of experience coming out of college and may be maxed out physically, too.

If the Bills draft Dwayne Jarrett, I won't like it one bit.

[1968_bills_fan]

OKOYE is hard to read for me. He is young and is either going to be terrific or a big bust. And not the type of big bust that I like.

[bcw]

If we draft Okoye he's going to end up playing less than 50% of our defensive snaps next year. I'd like more production out of the #12 pick, like we would get at RB or LB.

[GvilleBill]

If we draft Okoye he's going to end up playing less than 50% of our defensive snaps next year. I'd like more production out of the #12 pick, like we would get at RB or LB.

With regards to our DL rotation, that is a damn good point dude.

[JerseyBillsFan]

My concern with Okoye is that he's so young that they may see a need to bring him along slowly if he's the pick. And God knows this defense needs IMMEDIATE help.

[Mouldsie]

I didn't say they shouldn't, just that they probably won't.



Regardless, you don't take a First Round DT to replace your fourth option in the rotation if you are a team with other holes to fill. I think they'll look to DT on the second day, much like last year.

If you take a 1st round DT he's not replacing the 4th guy... he's going right to the top 2 spots and pushing someone else down while Timmy heads out.

[FknGvna]

Timmy is this years Jefferson, we'll call ya when we need ya.

[FknGvna]

Draft Scout Amobi Okoye News

03/10/07 - Despite their needs at running back, cornerback and linebacker after veteran defections and trades, the Bills may find passing on Louisville defensive tackle Amobi Okoye impossible to do. And with two extra picks this year after the Willis McGahee deal, there will be ample opportunity to address other needs after taking Okoye, one of the best players available regardless of position, with the No. 12 pick. Not that spending a high pick on a defensive tackle would be a crime. The Bills ranked 28th against the run last year and aren't sure if John McCargo, a late-first rounder last year, is the answer. Finding a replacement for departed free agent cornerback Nate Clements is also a high priority and teams often must spend high in round one to find quality covermen, someone capable of starting as a rookie. The Bills like Michigan senior Leon Hall.

03/28/07 - Amobi Okoye didn't have a lot to prove to the representatives from all 32 NFL teams who were in town yesterday for the University of Louisville's annual Pro Day. The 19-year-old defensive tackle is a consensus top-15 pick in the April 28 draft, someone whose stock didn't figure to rise much no matter what he did for the scouts at Papa John's Cardinal Stadium. But Okoye said he wanted to prove something to himself. "I'm a competitor, so I went out there," he said. Okoye tweaked one of his hamstrings while running the 40-yard dash at last month's NFL combine, leading to a somewhat disappointing time of 5.07 seconds. He said his hamstring still wasn't 100 percent yesterday, but he ran the 40 again and did it in 4.85 seconds. "I was trying to break 4.7, but I'll take it," said Okoye, who weighed in at 305 pounds. The scouts and team officials leaned forward a little more when Okoye took the field to go through drills with defensive tackle Zach Anderson. The other 10 U of L seniors who worked out hoped to catch as many eyes as possible, too. The crowd included some familiar faces, such as former U of L assistants Paul Petrino, Kevin Wolthausen and Mike Summers, all of whom joined ex-Cardinals coach Bobby Petrino with the Atlanta Falcons this year. Wolthausen conducted the drills with the defensive linemen he used to coach. That included Okoye, who might be a millionaire in a month but still wanted to show his worth. "It's just like they're trying to look through a microscope and look deeper," he said of the draft evaluation process. "I'm just out here giving them all of me. The last couple of months have been quite exciting, going out there and proving to yourself that you are what you are, that you're a high pick and somebody should take a chance on you." - Louisville Courier-Journal

[FknGvna]

Negatives: Shorter than ideal, causing problems when he fails to keep his hands active trying to fill the rush lanes and the center gets assistance in blocking him out (susceptible to cut blocks) … Can push the pocket, but seems to lack the closing burst needed to get to the quarterback consistently (needs to finish better) … His size could be a problem in a one-gap system … While he delivers punishing hand swipes in closed quarters, he can get reckless while operating in space … Does not possess sustained speed to pursue long distances, working better in the short area … Lost bulk to improve his stamina, but needs to put some back on to compete against the bigger blockers at the pro level … Very good in run containment, but he lacks pass rush moves despite eight sacks as a senior … Can move laterally with some effectiveness, but will struggle to redirect and is slow to recover when taking a wide loop in backside pursuit … Can push the pocket and has good initial quickness, but lacks the sudden speed to close on the quarterback … Even though he is known to clog the middle, only two of his 55 tackles in 2006 came inside the red zone.


While neither is known for his pass rushing skills, both are quite effective at keeping their feet and anchoring to shut down the inside rush lanes.

http://www.nfl.com/draft/profiles/2007/okoye_amobi

[FknGvna]

http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=192719

There have been a few surprises in our first dozen mock picks, and there will be a few more before we're done. What the Rams do at No. 13, however, won't be one of them.

[Merk]

Negatives: Shorter than ideal, causing problems when he fails to keep his hands active trying to fill the rush lanes and the center gets assistance in blocking him out (susceptible to cut blocks) … Can push the pocket, but seems to lack the closing burst needed to get to the quarterback consistently (needs to finish better) … His size could be a problem in a one-gap system … While he delivers punishing hand swipes in closed quarters, he can get reckless while operating in space … Does not possess sustained speed to pursue long distances, working better in the short area … Lost bulk to improve his stamina, but needs to put some back on to compete against the bigger blockers at the pro level … Very good in run containment, but he lacks pass rush moves despite eight sacks as a senior … Can move laterally with some effectiveness, but will struggle to redirect and is slow to recover when taking a wide loop in backside pursuit … Can push the pocket and has good initial quickness, but lacks the sudden speed to close on the quarterback … Even though he is known to clog the middle, only two of his 55 tackles in 2006 came inside the red zone.


While neither is known for his pass rushing skills, both are quite effective at keeping their feet and anchoring to shut down the inside rush lanes.

http://www.nfl.com/draft/profiles/2007/okoye_amobi


Hes not a run stuffer, anyone who watched him play during this past year could tell you that.

[FknGvna]

Who cares, he wreaks havoc. He'll meet the RB in the backfield.

[jaymitch84]

Hes not a run stuffer, anyone who watched him play during this past year could tell you that.

Let him grow a little more. Still just a 19 year old. (Man that's a scary thought.)

Draft him then turn around and trade Triplett for a later round pick?

[Merk]

Let him grow a little more. Still just a 19 year old. (Man that's a scary thought.)

Draft him then turn around and trade Triplett for a later round pick?



They played him at 310 his junior year and he still struggled at the point of attack. Hes just not that type of DT. If you draft him and dont put him at a 3tech or a posistion to where he can explode upfield you are really wasting his talents


and I doubt w/ what were paying Tripplett and what he has produced that anyone would give us a draft pick especially if we draft Okoye which might lead to a DT getting cut and it wont be the one we just traded for, it wont be the 2 2nd year guys, and Tim is likely gone anyway so that leaves 1 canidate out on the 4 man rotation

[jaymitch84]

They played him at 310 his junior year and he still struggled at the point of attack. Hes just not that type of DT. If you draft him and dont put him at a 3tech or a posistion to where he can explode upfield you are really wasting his talents


and I doubt w/ what were paying Tripplett and what he has produced that anyone would give us a draft pick especially if we draft Okoye which might lead to a DT getting cut and it wont be the one we just traded for, it wont be the 2 2nd year guys, and Tim is likely gone anyway so that leaves 1 canidate out on the 4 man rotation

Merk, I don't know what I would do without you around in this War Room.

[FknGvna]

Triplett might become an Eric Flowers.

[Merk]

Merk, I don't know what I would do without you around in this War Room.


Thanks man

We all contribute


Your doing a good job this offseason :bills:

[Merk]

Triplett might become an Eric Flowers.



Flowers is in a class of his own.

[FknGvna]

Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Louisville's Pro Day - Okoye continues to impress

Amobi Okoye continued his impressive off-season with an exceptional performance at Louisville's Pro Day. Okoye, at 305 pounds, ran a 4.85 40 yard dash. This was a nice improvement over his disappointing 5.07 40 time at the combine due in part to a sore hamstring. He could be a top ten pick in April's draft and has passed Alan Branch on many draft boards as the top defensive tackle in the draft.

Labels: Okoye

posted by FFNews at 4:03 PM


http://www.footballsfuture.com/news/2007/03/louisvilles-pro-day-okoye-continues-to.html

[FknGvna]

Amobi Okoye is getting his ass chewed.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/draft07/news/story?id=2830642&lpos=spotlight&lid=tab3pos1

[emo]

here is a blurb from draftdaddy.com

I am in complete agreement with them

DD.comment: Kirwan points out Louisville DT Amobi Okoye rising to top 10 status. Not to disparage this player or his fans but we have to ask if this player was actually 22 instead of 19, would there be as much buzz? The DT position is one where very few, if any draft picks make instant impact. It's a man's position and Okoye is still growing. By the time he is in the prime physically he will have several years of NFL wear and tear under his belt. It's possible that injury could strike before his body is fully mature, that's a side of the equation no one seems to be considering. The thinking is that if he's dominating at 19 what will he be at 22? The best DT in the league?

Only problem is that Okoye never really dominated at Louisville. He played well and impressed at Senior Bowl but he didn't dominate in the way that Warren Sapp dominated while at Miami, and that's a player Kirwan compares Okoye to in this article, and likely other teams are making that comparison as well. The whole idea seems more risky than people are considering, as there's never really been a dominating 19 year old at any position in the NFL, let alone at defensive tackle. Undoubtedly he is a rare athlete, and yes Okoye has a ton of upside. However we have to question whether the expectations are rising higher than this player can deliver. Being extraordinarily young isn't necessarily a positive in this case, it could be considered negatively given the demands of the position.

[FknGvna]

Umm Miami, Louiville, what a comparison, ummm 22, who cares, umm who left the team last year, guys by the name, Lawson and Mario. Who did they have last year? Okoye, the guy who coordinators would target.

My arguement is the guys hand play.

[Merk]

Umm Miami, Louiville, what a comparison, ummm 22, who cares, umm who left the team last year, guys by the name, Lawson and Mario. Who did they have last year? Okoye, the guy who coordinators would target.

My arguement is the guys hand play.


Mario and Lawson didnt play for Louisville

[emo]

Umm Miami, Louiville, what a comparison, ummm 22, who cares, umm who left the team last year, guys by the name, Lawson and Mario. Who did they have last year? Okoye, the guy who coordinators would target.

My arguement is the guys hand play.

man, I don't even know where to start with this

manny and mario are both from nc state did okoye play there last year?

[FknGvna]

Oh, ha ha.

I'd take a groan for lack of info.

[Merk]

bump

[BuffaloSoldier2]

ill blow chunks if we draft him. bust written all over him.

15 tackles, 4 sacks, 1 FF. Good call Albert. :guy:

Some funny respones in here. 20 years old and dominating in the NFL. Unbelievable.

Don't forget who said he was the next Warren Sapp (this guy). :sumo:

[treydawg]

Yes, let's go back and see all your brilliant posts dipshit. The NFL Draft is a crap shoot.

[FknGvna]

hmmmm.

[hello]

I wouldn't mind having him...