No school has produced three first-round linebackers in a single draft, but that could change tomorrow if USC's Brian Cushing, Rey Maualuga and Clay Matthews make history. Also worth noting is a fourth Trojan 'backer, Kaluka Maiava, who figures to be a mid-round selection.

Gilbert made a splash
After underachieving for the early portion of his career, San Jose State DT Jarron Gilbert came into his own as a senior by leading the country in tackles for loss and drawing the attention of scouts. He became a popular internet search after a video showed him jumping out of a pool and landing on his feet began to circulate. How popular he'll be on Draft Day remains to be seen, but former pro and current SJSU defensive line coach Joe Salave'a says Gilbert is only going to get stronger.

King is what he is
From an underachiever to anything but. There's a lot to like about Iowa DL Mitch King — extensive starting experience, production, passion, competitiveness. Unfortunately, he's built like a fire hydrant and doesn't have the size to hold up at the point. That said, King has received positive feedback from NFL people who are comfortable with him as a player and a person. He's hoping to catch on with a team and carve a niche with a team whose scheme fits his skill set.

Combine snub fueled Williams
One of the risers in this year's class, Western Illinois OLB Jason Williams, did not receive an invite to the Combine in February. Based on his measurables, he certainly should have and apparently he wasn't real pleased about his exclusion. Sporting a “Numbers Don’t Lie” T-shirt at his pro day, Williams showed sub-4.5 speed and has risen to the point where he is considered a possible top-100 prospect.

Cook talks about past troubles
South Carolina junior S has been forced to do a lot of explaining over a gun charge that was later dropped and a failed class. According to Cook, those incidents don't paint an accurate picture of who he is, however. "Everybody that knows me knows I'm a good guy," Cook told the Sun Sentinel.

Raiders focus between white lines
With so much pre-draft talk centered around prospects' character issues, the Raiders — taking a cue from owner Al Davis — will not shy away from potentially risky talent. 

49ers in search of speed
It's no secret Davis and the Raiders covet speed, and that's one particular trait Bay Area neighbor San Francisco is focused on finding this weekend, perhaps at running back. In fact, the Raiders and 49ers have similar draft needs.