2011 Senior Bowl Rosters: South Team Notes, Day One

The 2011 Senior Bowl weigh-in took place yesterday - we've already covered that - and so did the week's first practice for both the North and South squads. Most notable reporters covering the event took in the North practice on Monday - because quite frankly, there are bigger names and better prospects on that roster - but a few details of the South team's practice are emerging, as well.

Keep in mind that the first practice was conducted in helmets, shells and shorts, and that both teams won't practice in full pads until today. (They'll be in full pads on Wednesday and Thursday, as well.)

After reading through a few national sources (Sports Illustrated, The Sporting News, National Football Post, among others), as well as speaking with a few colleagues, we'll pass along a few notes on the South players Chan Gailey and company are working with this week after the jump.

Dalton looked small at weigh-in; scouts are concerned about his durability at the NFL level for that reason, even though it's never been an issue before. At practice he started off shaky, but settled in as the day improved. Made some nice throws down the field, but also had some rough-looking passes. Needs technical work. He was, however, the best-looking QB on the South squad, from what I've gathered.

Scouts have never questioned his physical abilities, and that trend continued when he impressed at the weigh-in. Reportedly lined up at right tackle for most of the day, even though he played on the left side at Arkansas. He struggled mightily in pass protection.

Wowed at the weigh-in, but was fairly mediocre in the practice setting. Not wholly surprising, as this has become Bailey's modus operandi - he is a physical marvel, but far too often disappears on the field of play. Played both end and tackle on his first day in Mobile.

Taylor reportedly carried his 337 pounds very well at the weigh-in, looking to be in great shape, and then went out and had a good practice. Scouts noted his ability to clog up running lanes, as the South offense really struggled to run the football on the day, and he also displayed some ability as a pass rusher, with sophisticated moves for a big guy.

Came out of the weigh-in as expected: small, even though he got some praise for looking like he's in top shape. Played SAM linebacker in a 4-3 alignment, and did not look great. That scheme does not play to his strengths, however.