Winston Venable of Boise State ~ 5.11/225
"An undersized linebacker who looks more like a defensive back when asked to make plays in pursuit. Runs well and has some range in coverage, gets a deep drop into zone, but isn't fluid enough in space to make the move to safety in the NFL. Works hard as a tackler, can make plays off his frame and is a solid wrap-up guy, but lacks the power to play inside the box and anchor at the next level.
Impression: A real OLB/SS tweener who isn't fluid enough on tape to make me feel confident in his chances at SS. More of a nickel backer who can make plays on an undersized defense and on special teams, but guys with his skill set are a dime a dozen."
Impression: A real OLB/SS tweener who isn't fluid enough on tape to make me feel confident in his chances at SS. More of a nickel backer who can make plays on an undersized defense and on special teams, but guys with his skill set are a dime a dozen."
"Bio: Junior college transfer awarded all-Conference honors last season with totals of 53/9.5/5.5. Junior numbers included 63 tackles.
Positive: Intense college defender who makes plays sideline to sideline. Plays with a vicious attitude, attacks ball handlers, and gets after assignments. Sells out on the blitz and shows good quickness. Breaks down well, moves well on his feet, and collapses to the outside in pursuit of the action. Shows ability in zone coverage and is effective facing the action.
Negative: Small and handled at the point of attack by fullbacks. Possesses just a short burst of speed, which he does not sustain.
Analysis: Venable is an intense defender who plays hard for 60 minutes, constantly flying around the action to make something positive happen. He has size/speed limitations but could be a conventional strong safety that can also produce on special teams."
Positive: Intense college defender who makes plays sideline to sideline. Plays with a vicious attitude, attacks ball handlers, and gets after assignments. Sells out on the blitz and shows good quickness. Breaks down well, moves well on his feet, and collapses to the outside in pursuit of the action. Shows ability in zone coverage and is effective facing the action.
Negative: Small and handled at the point of attack by fullbacks. Possesses just a short burst of speed, which he does not sustain.
Analysis: Venable is an intense defender who plays hard for 60 minutes, constantly flying around the action to make something positive happen. He has size/speed limitations but could be a conventional strong safety that can also produce on special teams."
"Overview: Hard-hitting nickel back who joined the Broncos in 2009 after transferring from Glendale Community College where he was a JUCO All-American registering almost 200 tackles in his two seasons. 1st Team All-WAC at linebacker in 2010; 2nd Team in 2009. Emotional team leader who brings big hits to the defense. Suspended for one game in 2010 after helmet-to-helmet hit knocked Oregon State back James Rodgers from the game with a concusssion. Shrine Bowl invitee.
Strengths: High-energy playmaker who always seems to find his way to the play. Intelligent and able to make quick reads, Venable can rush the passer, take on a blocker, and cover as needed. Versatile player who could become a special teams star.
Weaknesses: Size and speed are an issue - he was used as an 'extra' backer/nickel back but may not have a home in an NFL defense. Not big enough to really play OLB, and not really fast enough to be consistently an effective defensive back.
Projection: 7th round. Most likely an UDFA, but he has the energy and charisma that could attract a late-round draft pick."
Strengths: High-energy playmaker who always seems to find his way to the play. Intelligent and able to make quick reads, Venable can rush the passer, take on a blocker, and cover as needed. Versatile player who could become a special teams star.
Weaknesses: Size and speed are an issue - he was used as an 'extra' backer/nickel back but may not have a home in an NFL defense. Not big enough to really play OLB, and not really fast enough to be consistently an effective defensive back.
Projection: 7th round. Most likely an UDFA, but he has the energy and charisma that could attract a late-round draft pick."
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