Did Barnes and James make a mistake going into the draft?

[blion72]

Barnes appears to be a best case PS player - would not be surprised to see him in first cut. I don't think another year would have hurt him - may have helped in his development as he seemed to be on the right trajectory with new coaching. He also could have picked up an MBA like McGloin did - and better prepared for non-football life.

James actually comes out after only 3 years - and no stellar season (maybe his FR year was best). He definitely seemed like he could have used the 4th year. I don't know if he got his degree or not - hopefully he did, but if not then he could have picked that up. It sure does not look good for James making Steelers.

does JF have anyone on staff to help guys in these decisions so they don't totally rely on agents? feel bad for these guys even though their loss may not be that great for PSU.

 

[Nashville Lion]

I always thought and said Barnes needed another year.

 

[thecoolestfish]

Both absolutely could/would have benefitted tremendously from one more year. Apparently, however, both had other reasons for trying to go pro beyond thinking that they maxed out their college careers and were ready for the NFL. It's too bad because I think it could have been a win-win-win for PSU, themselves, and the NFL if they would have stayed in college for one more year.

 

[Lions82]

Yes. Although each case has its own unique circumstances, this should be a lesson to a certain Jr QB who, it says here, won't be ready for the NFL even after what I anticipate will be an outstanding season with every metric trending up.

The money is still going to be there. Stay the full four!

 

[Louisville JD]

Hackenberg should go if a 1st round pick. Ask LeMieux and Crosby what that college degree means. Going after 3 years will help recruiting vs the Buckeyes also because you know Meyer will mention it to every 5 star just like Calipari does for 5 star hoopers! Just sayin

 

[blion72]

Hack might get enough $$$$ that it wont matter for him. The guys like JJ (3rd round) and Deon (UFA) - not much $$$ there. Imagine Barnes trying to go pursue a job or grad degree at some night school. Jesse (if didn't graduate) is paying what little $$ he got to go get a degree that would have been FREE! !!

it is depressing to me and I think of their parents. dreams passed by and no money is one depressing thought. these were two pretty good citizens also.

I would like to see ncaa/nfl create a scholarship fund for guys who don't make it- to insure they get all the education they want.

 

[GregInPitt]

Ask them if you get the chance. They are individuals with their own priorities and goals. Far be it from me to judge their decisions.

Yes, the 2015 team would be better off if they were playing at PSU this year. Obviously.

 

[ILLINOISLION]

IMHO - Worst decisions since Freddie Scott.

That said, I hope either.....or both.....prove me absolutely wrong!

 

[rocky_dog7]

2 bad decisions, period.

 

[PSU.:.]

Leaving early knowing most likely you will go undrafted is always a mistake.

 

[BGJeff]

Yes!

 

[Dr. Feelgood]

Barnes made a big mistake

 

[Eurotrash1]

With all of the Tight End talent, I wonder if James was encouraged to leave?

 

[Jerademan74]

With all of the Tight End talent, I wonder if James was encouraged to leave?

I don't think Jesse James was encouraged to leave. He made his bed and now he'll have to sleep in it. IMHO, I think we'll be just fine @ TE without him, but wish him well. I think he has the size, but is a little too soft!

 

[m.knox]

Both absolutely could/would have benefitted tremendously from one more year. Apparently, however, both had other reasons for trying to go pro beyond thinking that they maxed out their college careers and were ready for the NFL. It's too bad because I think it could have been a win-win-win for PSU, themselves, and the NFL if they would have stayed in college for one more year.

Fish, I agree.

Reminds me of Freddie Scott and Aaron Maybin off the top of my head.

I think for Jessie James though, part of it may have been Franklin's system. Tight ends do not appear to be what they used to be under OB.

 

[PennStateNate]

Loved JJ, but he has been horrible in camp. Yesterday he got beat for a huge sack and was called offsides.

Mistakes you can't make.

 

[21Guns]

With all of the Tight End talent, I wonder if James was encouraged to leave?

I don't know about Jesse, but Barnes sure as hell, was encouraged to leave.

I wonder if Larry Johnson was thinking about Deon's parents when he conned him into leaving?

Maybe we should ask Adolphus Washington about how kids need to leave early?

 

[Rip_E_2_Joe_PA]

My fondest hope is that this question gets asked at least 12 more times before the NFL preseason ends. Good grief.

 

[4rosco]

Fish, I agree.

Reminds me of Freddie Scott and Aaron Maybin off the top of my head.

I think for Jessie James though, part of it may have been Franklin's system. Tight ends do not appear to be what they used to be under OB.

How was it a mistake for Maybin leaving early? He went 11th in 1st round and signed contract with $14M in guaranteed money. What would have another year of college done to improve that?