Each week of the season, we will identify players whose draft stock is rising or falling. There's nothing permanent about moves in either direction, however, as this week's disappointment can turn into next week's joy (and vice versa) during the long journey to next April's selecting meeting at New York City's Radio City Music Hall.
Although he's been in a platoon situation with junior LeGarrette Blount, Oregon's Jeremiah Johnson play the second half of the season – especially that 219 yard performance against Oregon State - has served his draft status well. Johnson's low center of gravity and speed could make him a second-round pick.
West Virginia cornerback Ellis Lankster plays much bigger than his 5'10", 190-pound frame indicates. In fact, he is so physical that may project to free safety if a zone team doesn't select him as a corner. His third interception of the year helped WVU beat South Florida last week.
Another injury to Boston College linebacker Brian Toal opened up the door – again – for Robert Francois to start. He's taken full advantage, showing the skills NFL teams desire in a strong-side linebacker: toughness at the line and the ability to cover tight ends and running backs. Although BC couldn't beat Virginia Tech to get that BCS bid last weekend, Francois' play was not the issue.
12/8/08 - Chad Reuter, Senior Analyst, NFLDraftScout.com
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