Oregon Ducks running back LeGarrette Blount may be the sleeper of this year’s draft, literally.

While still waiting for his name to be called during the final rounds of the NFL 2010 Draft, Blount was caught by ESPN cameras taking a nap.

Last season, Blount instantly became a member of the Hall of Shame when he sucker-punched an opposing Boise State Broncos player after being taunted after his team’s loss.

Before cold-cocking that player, Blount was projected by many draft analysts to go in the 3rd round.

Unfortunately, Blount never heard his name before the gavel hit and the draft was over.

But this story doesn’t end here.

Shortly after the draft, along comes San Francisco 49ers coach Mike Singletary galloping in on a horse in shining armor, signing the undrafted player. This could prove to be a great move by the 49ers. Blount is a strong runner with talent and strong competitive nature with the ability to run over a few NFL linebackers if given the chance.

Though crucified by the public and many sports sites, including us after that incident, Blount deserves a chance to find a permanent spot on an NFL roster and is our hands-down pick for ‘sleeper’ of the draft.

Editor’s Note: Shortly after this article was written, LaGarrette jumped ship from the 49ers and instead signed with the Titans.

Copyright ©2010 Sports Climax™

EUGENE, OREGON – Oregon Ducks first-year Coach Chip Kelly announced that running back LeGarrette Blount is suspended for the entire season after losing control and sucker punching Byron Hout, a defensive lineman for Boise State.The incident occurred just seconds after #14 Boise State Broncos defeated #19 Oregon 19-8 on Boise’s famous blue turf.

As the post-game celebration began kicking into high gear, Hout screamed in Blount’s face and pushed him on the shoulders as he passed by.

Blount retaliated by throwing a haymaker that connected right on the jaw of Hout, dropping the huge defensive lineman to his knees.

Blount apologized after the incident, “It was just something that I shouldn’t have done. I lost my head.”

Kelly felt the need to handle the situation with an iron fist and suspended Blount who is a senior, for the entire season including any bowl games.

“That’s not what we’re all about. That’s not what we coach. That’s not what we stand for and it’s unacceptable,” said Kelly. “He is taking this very hard. He understands he made a mistake and he has to pay for the mistake. But we’re not going to throw LeGarrette Blount out on the street.”

Blount will remain on scholarship and continue to practice with the team.

Related Articles:

Blount & Hout Share Bitch-Slap-of-the-Week Honors (Sept. 5, 2009)

NCAA Kickoff Weekend in Review (Sept. 6, 2009)

Copyright © 2009 – Sports Climax