Every year, the common story is told in the NFL Draft. "This guy, underlooked in college, is going to become a monster in the NFL". Year in, year out any fan of the NFL and the NFL Draft will here this quote time after time and the truth is; there are some guys, you better be careful about when you say those words. Here are some guys receiving a lot of hype, that I feel isn't deserved.

1. Phil Loadholt - OT - Oklahoma


I would love to take you back, to in the biggest game of the year for the universities of Texas and Oklahoma. The annual Red River shootout. Phil Loadholt, was embarrassed on snap after snap by All - American DE Brian Orakpo. The truth is, on most plays he didn't have a chance against Orakpo. Consistently, Loadholt has shown he can't handle a speed rusher in college, let alone a NFL speed end. I also believe, the left side of Oklahoma's offensive line this year was primarily anchored by Duke Robinson, LG. Duke Robinson was a real unwritten hero for the Sooners this year, he was great in run blocking especially. I believe that he has had a big impact on that offensive line, to help out his LT, Phil Loadholt.

2. Andre Smith - OT - Alabama
Now, I for one don't particularly like to put a lot of stock into the NFL Combine. However, when you decide to play games and say you will run, say you will do certain events and then you don't show up entirely. That has to sting in the minds of an NFL GM who wants to invest millions of dollars in you. That being said, Andre Smith felt like his game in college was shown off enough, he showed enough of what he is about to NFL Scouts in his tape. Watching Andre Smith in run blocking, is truth be told, a treat. The guy is an animal and uses his size well. Where Andre Smith is lacking, entirely, is his pass blocking. He doesn't get out out off the ball well and he has shown a history of getting beaten up by smaller defensive ends. There have been many reports about a "unnamed player" who has not wanted to talk about football, just "show me the money" type of talks. I wouldn't be surprised at all, if it is Andre Smith, from Alabama.

3. Rey Maualuga - MLB - USC



Since day one, when I saw Rey Maualuga I said to myself, "Wow, this guy plays with a lot of intensity". Which he does, I can say that about him, he brings it on every play. However, that can be used against you, in key situations. Teams love to get under Rey's skin during the game, and try to pick up some cheap penalty's. He loves to talk the smack with players. Rey makes a lot of plays that make you say "wow". But in return, he misses more tackles than big plays. Countless times this year, RB's should have been wrapped up but broke out of the grasp of Maualuga for a big gain. He has had a lot of off field issues, including in getting in a lot of fights in parties that are well documented. When a team on draft day, selects Rey Maualuga they are getting a talent -- but a heat head.

Written by Kristian Dignazio of Smashmouth Draft Inc. / 2009