Scouts "Inc."

Off-topic as it relates to basketball, but I just couldn't resist...

According to ESPN.com, Scouts Inc. "breaks down film of every NFL game, college games and individual footage of college prospects, and our experts attend NFL training camps and both NFL and college games in person. They do everything their NFL counterparts do, but instead of internalizing this information, they write it exclusively for ESPN. Scouts, Inc., is dedicated to serving the hard-core football fan with thoughtful, in-depth analysis of NFL and college players, coaches and teams."

http://insider.espn.go.com/insider/story?id=1767169

Perhaps thats why I found the following post-draft, pre-season analysis of Charger's first round pick Shawne "Lights Out" Merriman:

"Possesses good lower body strength for size, plays with a mean streak and should be able to hold ground at the point of attack when lined up at linebacker. Shows great range, takes adequate pursuit angles and makes plays in pursuit. Plays with a great motor and always seems to be around the ball at the end of the play. Doesn't always use hands well, relies on quickness to slip blocks in the open field and has some problems making the play once an offensive lineman locks on. Lacks ideal size for an every-down defensive end, will need time to develop cover skills if moves to linebacker and probably won't make an immediate contribution on defense."

Merriman was selected to the Pro Bowl, and won the Defensive Rookie of the Year award. According to Superbowl.com, he "finished the season ranked first among NFL rookies, and 15th overall, with 10 sacks. He made an immediate impact on the Chargers’ defense, recording 57 tackles, the fifth-highest total on the team" - and don't forget that he basically didn't play the first four or so games of the year.

Thankfully, Scouts Inc. isn't responsible for drafting on behalf of the Chargers.