Mike Mayock conference call CliffsNotes

NFL Network draft analyst Mike Mayock had a conference call with the media today. He had a lot of interesting comments. Some of them you can find after the jump.

Cam Newton: Cam Newton is an unbelievable athlete. You have to have the football IQ to make it work.

I’d be very concerned about taking him in the first round.

He reminds me of a Bradford, he reminds me of a

.

That’s a really talented kid who has first round potential. He’s struggled in the pocket. People are writing him off. I’m not.

Has a huge arm, is a great athlete, and has a huge frame...He’s going to rise a bit. Probably a second round-type guy. There’s just so much work that has to be done with that young man.

The perception is that he can only be a scrambling quarterback. I think that’s a bit unfair to the kid.

I don’t think there’s any way he gets out of the 2nd rd. Playmaker with the ability to take it to the house.

He’s got a little bit of stiffness to him. Most comfortable in press-man (but) might be best served at safety.
Patrick Peterson: I’m anxious to see what Patrick Peterson looks like. I’m amazed to see that he returns punts for a guy his size.

This is a guy that fits every offense. A.J. Green is the real deal as a top 10 type of receiver. And I’m not big on WRs in the top 10.

: He’s an athletic freak. I think he’s probably going to put on a show at the combine.

You better make sure you’re getting what you hope you’re getting.

I think as this draft moves closer, you’re gonna see his name higher and higher. Just ordered a bunch more tape.

Prototype 34 rush linebacker. Amazing ability to bend his body and get to the QB. Tough enough to overcome (size limitations).
Other notes of note:
- He sees Patrick Peterson as a safety later in his NFL career.
- Of everyone he talked about, Mayock seemed the most excited about Jacquizz Rodgers and Patrick Peterson.
-

fits

‘s scheme.
- He compared

to

-

doesn’t have the speed to play left tackle but could be an All Pro right tackle.
- If

is there with the 14th pick, the Rams should run to the podium.
- Considers Brandon Harris a second- or third-round pick.
- He raved about

‘s vertical route running ability.