Key Stat:
McFadden and Georgia’s Herschel Walker are the only players in Southeastern Conference history to exceed 1,000 rushing yards in their first three college seasons. McFadden rushed for 1,113 yards in 2005, 1,647 in 2006 and a school-record 1,830 yards in 2007.
NFL Potential:
McFadden compares to the Saints’ Reggie Bush and Vikings’ Adrian Peterson. The former Arkansas star has the rare combination of size, speed, power and elusiveness. He reportedly has a 4.33 time for the 40-yard dash.
Did You Know?:
McFadden is the first running back taken by the Raiders in the opening round of the draft since 1995 when Oakland selected Washington’s Napoleon Kaufman.
Key Stat:
Branch finished the 2007 season ranked 13th in the nation in kickoff returns, averaging 28.99 yards on 27 returns. He returned two kickoffs for TDs. He had only three career interceptions despite starting all four years for the Huskies.
NFL Potential:
Because of his blazing speed, Branch could contribute as a rookie on special teams as a kick returner and kick coverage gunner. His size, speed and instincts give him a chance to develop into an extra defensive back.
Did You Know?:
Branch ran the 40-yard dash in 4.31 seconds, tying Penn State's Justin King for the fastest time among defensive backs at the NFL Combine in February. FYI: Darren McFadden, the Raiders' top pick in the 2008 draft, was timed in 4.33.
Key Stat:
Shields caught 12 passes for 107 yards against Vanderbilt in Richmond's 2007 season opener. In Week 2 against against Northeasten, he tore the posterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, essentially ending his season (although he attempted to play against Rhode Island later in the season).
NFL Potential:
Shields must show he's recovered from his knee injury as a senior.
Because of his speed (4.44 in the 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine) and height, he has a chance to develop into a complementary receiver.
Did You Know?:
He improved his draft selection with a strong showing at the NFL Combine in February. He reportedly finished in the top 10 at his position in all seven of the main events.
Key Stat:
Scott contributed 19 sacks during his final two seasons with the Division 1-A Bulls after switching from tight end. His 10 sacks as a senior rank fourth highest in a single season in team history.
NFL Potential:
Scott is a high-energy player who could develop as a pass-rushing specialist at defensive end or linebacker, ala former Raider Lance Johnstone.
Did You Know?:
He lettered in football, basketball and track and field at Postdam (N.Y.) High School.
Key Stat:
Schielens contributed 103 catches for 1,603 yards and seven TDs in 39 career games with the Aztecs.
NFL Potential:
His speed, height and athleticism will buy him time in training camp, but Schielens needs to develop technique on pass routes to earn a roster spot as a rookie and beyond.
Did You Know?:
After graduating from high school, the outfielder was selected by the Detroit Tigers in the 34th round of the 2003 Major League Baseball draft.
