Four Missouri Tigers will play in All-Star games in the next month. Defensive linemen Jaron Baston will play in the East-West Shrine game in Orlando on the 23rd. Wide receiver Danario Alexander and linebacker Sean Weatherspoon will play in the Senior Bowl on the 30th in Mobile, AL. Wide receiver Jared Perry will play in the Texas vs. the Nation game on February 6th in El Paso.
As far as prospects for the NFL. I think Baston has quietly turned into a solid defensive lineman. He helped clog up the middle and the Missouri defense was solid against the run (until the Navy game), but I don’t think he’s quick enough for the NFL.
When I looked a Perry a couple of season ago, I saw a lot of potential. He has great speed and could get open deep, but the dude has no hands. He just could never get in sync with Blaine Gabbert this year. No hands, no chance.
Weatherspoon was projected to be drafted in the third round as a junior so he came back for his senior season. I’ve heard varying reports that he could be a second round pick. I’ve also heard his stock has dropped because he is undersized. However, I’ll say this about Weatherspoon. I believe he has the speed and while his skills may be slightly above average, the kid has the heart and desire. He’ll make an NFL squad and he’ll have to do what he did with the Tigers…make an impression on special teams and work for playing time as his skills develop.
Alexander. My biggest question along with everyone else is his health. Three knee surgeries on his left knee. However, if you think about it, look at what he did this season despite the past surgeries. Alexander has it. The height, the speed, the strength. At times he becomes a little careless with the football, but he was the go to guy and thrived in that situation. I think Alexander will go lower in the draft then he deserves. I think he’s a early second round, late first round type talent. Whatever NFL team picks him up will find a diamond in the rough. I think Alexander flies under the radar, but turns out to be a solid NFL player.
