In-state hopefuls

A number of players with ties to Louisiana will have an opportunity to fulfill their pigskin dreams when the NFL Draft takes place this weekend.

While national power LSU boasts three likely first-round picks (JaMarcus Russell, Laron Landry and Dwayne Bowe), and another possible second-round pick (Craig “Buster” Davis), a number of smaller schools throughout the state have produced NFL prospects for the 32 teams to choose from.

Locally, former Nicholls State left tackle Jacob Bender is a likely mid-round pick according to NFL analyst Mike Detillier. “Jacob will probably go in the fifth round,” said Detillier. “He could squeeze into round four if there’s a run on tackles.”

Detillier said Bender’s strengths include his athleticism, long arms and quick feet. “He’s a good run blocker,” said Detillier. “But he needs to work on pass protection, just because Nicholls didn’t do a lot of it.

“He had very, very good all-star bowl games,” added Detillier, “and he’s got a good agent.”

Bender would be the Colonels’ first offensive player drafted since 1989.

Teams that have shown interest in him include the Washington Redskins and Green Bay Packers.

Another former Colonel that could get a shot in the NFL is safety Toney Edison. Detillier said Edison’s route to the NFL will likely be as an undrafted free agent. “He’s a good athlete,” said Detillier. “He plays up against the run, real well. I think there’s still the big question mark in how well he’ll deal in coverage.”

Still, Detillier said Edison played well against the pass in the Magnolia All-Star Bowl Game. “Where Toney’s going to have to make his mark … is on special teams,” explained Detillier. “He’s got to be able to hit big on the special teams’ factor. To me, that’s where he’s got a shot.

“He’s got a chance to play, and I don’t think there’s any question a team will sign him as a free agent.”

Other players from Louisiana colleges that could hear their names called on draft day include UL-Monroe’s Kevin Payne (S) and Chaz Williams (CB), Louisiana Tech’s Johnny Holland (WR), Southeastern Louisiana’s Demoris Hardiman (LB) and McNeese State’s Brent Ponson (G/C).