LaMarcus Hicks

Signed with the Detroit Lions

Position: Defensive back

2005: Hicks recorded 55 tackles and five interceptions

Hicks’ speed and quick jump to the ball gave him the ability to not only create turnovers, but turn those takeaways into points. The Lions managed a measly +1 turnover margin ratio, so a defensive playmaker such as Hicks could help the Lions with the team’s troubled defense. ÿ

Steve Paris

Signed with the Baltimore Ravens

Position: Defensive back

2005: Paris recorded 65 tackles, three interceptions and a fumble return for a 66-yard touchdown.

Paris is a playmaker with electrifying abilities. He also steps up in the big moments. The Ravens, once the league’s best defense, have struggled as of late. Paris could learn from the team’s strong veterans, so if he can make the cut, it will be a great fit for the former Cyclone. ÿ

Nick Leaders

Signed with the Baltimore Ravens

Position: Defensive lineman

2005: Leaders recorded 41 tackles and one interception.

Leaders is a proven leader with a high football IQ. Coachable and well-liked by his teammates, Leaders must separate himself from the plentiful supply of defensive linemen in the NFL. He will need to improve his speed if he wants to play – the Ravens need someone who can clear the way for Ray Lewis and company to inflict the damage the team’s been famous for in years past. ÿ

Landon Schrage

Signed with the Baltimore Ravens

Position: Deep snapper

2005: Schrage went the whole year without allowing a blocked kick or field goal.

Although fans often overlook the importance of a strong deep snapper, coaches and fellow players aren’t so naive. It’s tough to find players who consistently deliver solid long snaps. During his career at Iowa State, Schrage proved himself each day he stepped on the field. The first week of practice will be important for Schrage to prove himself at a higher level and forge a future with the Ravens. ÿ

Tony Yelk

Signed with the Atlanta Falcons

Position: Placekicker/punterÿ

2005: Yelk came back after being injured in 2004. Yelk did all of the kickoffs and recorded 34 touchbacks, but had limited action with placekicking and punting. ÿ

Yelk’s strong leg got him signed. His ability to consistently kick off the ball deep with relative accuracy are his strong points. As for placekicking, Yelk has the power, but lacks the accuracy. It would be a surprise to many ISU fans to see Yelk make it kicking field goals. After all, he was 13 of 28 in his career. He does, however, stand a chance at becoming an NFL punter, averaging more than 42 yards per attempt his freshman season.

Tim Dobbins

Drafted by the San Diego Chargers

Position: Linebacker

2005: Dobbins recorded 103 tackles, one sack and one interception.

Dobbins was the only Cyclone drafted. He’s big enough for the pros and is an excellent run stopper. Dobbins’ on-field leadership for the Cyclones attests to his maturity, but if he wants to be an every-down linebacker in the NFL, he will need to improve his pass coverage and ability to rush the passer.

– Ward Phillips