The biggest news on the updated Big Board won't be about who the new additions are -- it'll be about some notable absences. Both Jake Locker and Ryan Mallett are off my current list of the Top 25 NFL prospects for the 2011 NFL draft. It's a first for each. It doesn't mean I don't think either of them are likely to not be picked in Round 1. In fact, both could easily go in the first round. Each has tremendous talent and upside, but these two also have question marks and have some work to do during the workout process over the next two months to bounce back.
The list continues to be dominated by a deep class of defensive lineman. With so much talent at the position, I think some teams with that need that have early first-round picks will pursue the option to trade down. There are plenty of moves to come, with the NFL combine still a few weeks away. As always, juniors and draft-eligible sophomores are noted with an asterisk.
DT
6-5
310
Analysis: In great position, you'd have to doubt he does full workouts in Indy. A force all season, even when not 100 percent; a perfect fit for a 4-3 interior. Last week: No. 1
DE
6-4
277
Analysis: The most gifted pure pass-rusher on the Board, Bowers has followed through on his talent. An ideal 4-3 DE, but he has a chance as a 3-4 edge. Last week: No. 2
WR
6-4
207
Analysis: Allays any speed fears with improved route-running, and speed is fine. Green has worked hard to become a complete WR. Last week: No. 3
CB
6-1
211
Analysis: An extraordinary athlete, Peterson doesn't just have safety size, he'd measure up to a lot of RBs. Great special-teams returner as well. Last week: No. 4
DE
6-3
306
Analysis: A solid penetrator; pass-rush skills trump run-stopping performance thus far, which is a reason I can see him becoming a solid 3-4 DE. Last week: No. 5