The NFL draft is tomorrow, my level of excitment is somewhere between chicks with tattoos and all you can eat steak. So is our buddy the Sherpa of Camping, Tioga. He's so excited in fact that he has brought to us another mock draft! So enjoy bitches!
alot changes in a week and with what may be the most unpredictable draft in sometime, I'm sure alot more will come saturday. all that said, here goes.
1) Det - QB Mathew Stafford. There's some talk and speculation that it will be one of the top OT's but franchise QB's are way harder to find than lineman.
2) SL - T Jason Smith. Finally the Rams get a tackle. Smith edges out Monroe for his on the field disposition and brings a little bit of nastiness at the snap of the ball. Helps out in the pass and the run.
3) KC - * trade down. or LB Aaron Curry. Here's where the real drama starts. KC has several needs and would probably rather trade down and get better value than have to pay #3 money to a guy that would be a #10 pick in any other draft. With all the love flying around for Sanchez and with Seattle linked to be one of the teams with a man crush on him, it'd be wise to move ahead of them to get him. Washington would love to land this pick but probably doesn't have the ammo to move up. The Jets are probably the most likely to move up, but may not be willing to pay the cost of moving up from 17. If the Cheifs are willing to take less value than what the draft chart shows then a swap with NY could very well be in the cards. All that said, if KC stays then look for them to draft the best defensive player on the board with either Curry or Orakapo drafted to help start the new 3-4 the team is switching over to. With Curry being the safest pick and rated as the best player overall he edges out everyone else. LSU DE Jackson has been linked here aswell being that it's hard to find true 5 tech DE's, but he's not quite #3 material.
4) Sea - T Eugene Monroe. In what may be a smokescreen, Seahawks are rumored to be looking closely at QB Mark Sanchez to sit behind Hasselbeck. While it may be smart to do so, (Sea doesn't plan to be drafting close to #4 again anytime soon), their most pressing need is at T where Walter Jones is 35 and beat up. Monroe is a legitamate LT and with it rumored that he could go to KC, my hunch is that Sea is showing the Sanchez love in order to get someone to swap with KC and ensuring that Monroe drops to them.
5) Cle - DE/OLB Brian Orakapo. Another hard to nail pick; Cle could go se,veral different ways here. If they trade WR Edwards they could give a serious thought on WR Crabtree, maybe even if they don't move Edwards. They could also go with DE Jackson, (doubtfull though), or maybe even LB Curry if he falls. I've also seen DT Raji and CB Jenkins mentioned at this pick. In the end though, I feel that even if they do move Edwards that they'd be wise to find an explosive pass rusher to finally get some pressure on Roethlisberger, Palmer, and Flacco. Pressure would help their DB's out and rushers are far harder to find later in drafts than WR's are.
6) Cin - T Andre Smith. Yet another unpredictable pick here. The Bengals need all kinds of help, maybe none more that at OT. After loosing Houshmandzedah and maybe Ocho Cinco WR Crabtree would be a good addition, but without time or protection he'd be running for nothing on Sundays. DT Raji could go here due to the fact that he's a better fit in a 4-3 which the Bengals happen to run, but I feel they'd rather have DE Orakpo if he's available if they wish to ignore their line until later. In the end though, Smith makes the Bengals better from day one and prior to his mental meltdows was the top OL... a review of his tapes shows that he has rare talent to suceed at a high level in the NFL.
7) Oak - WR Jeremy Maclin. I've seen where DT Raji has been linked here; but why would you draft a soft player, who is on the ground a lot, and takes plays off regularly.. just to replace guys who are soft, on the ground a lot, and who takes plays off frequently. With WR and OT their most pressing needs, I see Davis grabing a WR who has produced at a high level. Maclin has the wheels that Al loves; thus I see him skipping over Crabtree for Oak. The only thing that would make Maclin not go here, would be if Davis goes for Heyward-Bey who runs just a little faster. If T Smith falls he could possibly land here.
8) JV - DT BJ Raji. A real boom or bust player, he is the big bodied DT that the Jaguars made trendy in their glory days. They've been linked to be in the Sanchez sweepstakes, but that'd be a vanity pick for a coach who's on the hotseat. They at least made an attempt at securing their biggest needs with the FA signing of T Thomas and WR Holt; so now they move on to making their front 4 more fearsome. If Del Rio doesn't feel comfortable with all of Raji's risk, then WR Crabtree would be a good pick here. They could also trade down if Sanchez is still around.
9) GB - *trade down. DE/OLB Aaron Maybin. The Packers are trying to switch over to the 3-4 and will be looking to find the players to fit it. One of their biggest needs would be to find a player to rush the QB from the OLB position and Maybin can do that well. He's an undersized DE who reminds some scouts of Jason Taylor. One plus is that he comes from the Big 10 so Lambeau winters shouldn't be a factor in his play. If Sanchez is still on the board GB should have several offers, esp from the Jets who can afford to move up here. With the Redskins at 13 the Packers should still be able to get the player they want aswell.
10) SF - WR Michael Crabtree. It's possible he could fall here, not likely but possible. If he's not then the 49ers should instead focus on their defense, the pass rush in particular. Either DE/OLB Everette Brown, or Aaron Maybin. DE Tyson Jackson is a possibility here aswell since he's suited for a 3-4, but they drafted Balmer in the 1st last year so they should go after the edge speed rusher to get after the potent passers in their division. If QB should by some unforseen circumstance fall here, the 49ers would most likely stop his plummet.
11) Buf - T Micheal Oher. In a move that was made necessary by moving LT Peters to the Eagles, the Bills get the last of the blue chip T prospects. With the pass rush and OLB play being poor in Buf last season, they could go for Brown or Maybin... but since they run the 4-3 that neither player is suited for, they'd be better served by waiting til #28 to grab a part time 3rd down pass rusher. Plus there's no legit OT's at 28 to replace Peters.
12) Den - DE Tyson Jackson. Jackson's stock has soared lately due to the fact that he's one of the few legitimate 3-4 DE's, and with the Broncos switching to it this year they need to grab the players to make it work. If Jackson falls here Den would love to snag him ahead of division rival SD who would be targeting him aswell. CB/S Malcolm Jenkins would be a good pick here also to play opposite old man Champ Baily or old man Brian Dawkins.
13) Was - DE Robert Ayers. One of the teams likely to really mortgage their future by trying to move up and draft QB Sanchez; it's concievable that either KC, Cle, Cin, JV, or GB would be picking here instead. With several team needs the Redskins would be wise to trade down and probably still land Ayers if they can find any takers. Ayers is a boom or bust type player in that he was a one year wonder in Tennessee, but he's the only true 1st round 4-3 DE... he also showed well at the Senior Bowl against OT's Smith and Oher. If Oher is still available here the Skins could look to take him to play RT until Samules hangs up the cleats.
14) NO - LB Brian Cushing. With needs at RB I've seen Benie Wells here, but with RB depth good later, and it being a part time position in NO, they'd be wise to address a different position with an impact player. Cushing would start from day 1 and could make a difference in a very vanila Defense. Without a 2nd round pick, the Saints would be wise to move down and aquire more players.
15) Hou - CB/S Malcolm Jenkins. The Texans have several needs on Defense with DE, DT, OLB, CB, and S all starting either underachievers or spare players. If DE Ayers or DT Raji fall here they could be intriguing as well as LB Cushing. As it is though Davis would be the biggest impact defender left to them. Jenkins is the top rated DB in this draft and is a very battle tested solid player from Ohio St that will be a very safe pick. His only knock is that he lacks elite speed... luckily for him he has the size to move to FS if he doesn't make it at CB. If he's gone then super talented but poster child for character risk Davis could be possible.
16) SD - RB Knowshown Moreno. I'm not real comfortable with this pick personally. SD needs a S, OL, DE, future NT, probably an ILB, and even possibly an OLB. So taking a RB with Tomlinson and Sproles around would be a luxury; but LT is on the decline and probably out the door after next season, and Sproles is a FA next season and very very small in size for everydown play. Moreno is the best RB and would make next seasons tough decisions easier. If DE Jackson falls here he could be a possibility. The Chargers could go for DE/OLB Everette Brown or ILB Rey Maualuga also.
17) NYJ - *trade up. QB Mark Sanchez. The team most likely to trade up as they have more picks than Washington. Built to win now after this and last seasons free agent hauls, they are now missing a QB with Favre's retirement. If they're unable to make a move up then they would most likely grab a WR here, most likely either Maclin or Heyward-Bey.
18) Den - ILB Rey Maualuga. Another bigger player to help switch over to a 3-4, Rey is a big physical pressence that would make an impact. The Broncos could also trade down in order to find a NT that would be a reach here at 18. Could be tempted by one of the defensive players mentioned earlier whom could fall or go for CB Davis.
19) TB - DT Perria Jerry. With needs everywhere, they'd be wise to trade down. They'd also be wise to shy away from the QB Freeman in that he's a very boom or bust prospect. When he's compared with QB's Cullpepper, Campbell, and Leftwich it doesn't bode well. Jerry is considered by some to be the best DT this year and would fill an immediate need.
20) Det - CB Vontrae Davis. With the rest of the OT's available to the Lions at the top of the 2nd they'd be better served by addressing the Defense that was mostly to blame for them going 0-16. If Jerry falls here he'd be welcomed with open arms as well as any of the Defenders who could slide. DT Ziggy Hood and LB James Laurinatis are possibilities as well if Davis's character deters the Lions.
21) Phi - *trade for either Boldin or Edwards. TE Brandon Pettigrew. Would be tempted by Moreno if he falls, and could also go for a WR here incase they don't land one of the veterans on the trading block. Pettitgrew is the top rated TE who has great size, blocks, and is a good reciever... would replace LJ Smith.
22) Min - T Eben Britton. The best of the 2nd tier OT's will sneak into the bottom of the 1st just like high 2nd T's do every year. The Vikings could also look at WR here.
23) NE - OLB Clay Mathews. Perfectly suited to replace Vrabel, very similar type player. His father also played for Beliceck.
24) Atl - LB James Laurinatis. With DT, DE, and SS bigger needs, the Falcons hate to see all the 1st round type players gone here. DE Everette Brown is a possibility here if he falls but he's a part time player due to his lack of size, same for DE Michael Johnson. Lauinatis would start and bring leadership. With so many holes to fill though, Atl would be best served by trading down.
25) Mia - LB Clint Sintim. Everette Brown would be tempting if still available, but Sintim played OLB in college for former Parcells assistant Groeh. WR Kenny Britt is also a possibility due to his size, but Bill opts for his favorite possition in order to make Brady's life difficult.
26) Bal - WR Darrius Heyward-Bey. Probably won't be available due to his 4.3 speed, but his production suggest he should be picked in this area. They could also look at other WR's such as Britt, Nicks, and Harvin here but each come with question marks. CB Davis or Butler could be possibilities.
27) Ind - DT Evander Hood. A bit of a reach, Hood is the best available DT and suits the upfield athletic style of Defense that the Colts play.
28) Buf - DE Everrette Brown. Not likely to fall this far, at 28 the Bills would feel better about him only playing on passing downs. If he's not available here then either DE Johnson or C Alex Mack would be strong possibilities.
29) NYG - *trade for WR Edwards or Boldin. If the Giants can't make a deal then WR Kenny Britt whom many scouts compare to TO and Brandon Marshall on and off the field could wind up replacing Burress. LB Laurinatis would be a good fit aswell if he falls here.
30) Ten - CB Darrius Butler. Super athlete with little production, in a class that's weak at DB, Butler has seen his stock soar. Ten does a good job at identifying needs down the road and grabbing players to have for them later... thus the CB pick here. CB Alphonso Smith, WR Hakeem Nicks, WR Percy Harvin, or a DT could also be the pick here.
31) Arz - RB Chris Wells. One of the top backs who has good speed for a big guy, he replaces Edge and keeps the Cards offense rolling. DE Jarron Gilbert or NT Ron Brace could be possible here as well as DE Fili Moala. DE/OLB Larry English could sneak in here also.
32) Pit - *trade down or C/G Alex Mack. The Steelers need a T badly but none available carry a 1st round grade; if Pit takes one it would be a Hou for Brown type reach. If they cant move down, (Dallas looks like a possibility here), then they'd go for Mack who is the best C in the draft and wait for a T next round. With an aging DL they could take a serious look at DE Moala or Gilbert or NT Brace. CB's Davis or Butler could be tempting if they slide as well as undersized but very solid CB Alphonso Smith.
Showing posts with label Tioga. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tioga. Show all posts
Friday, April 24, 2009
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Tioga's draft broo ha ha, round 2.
Its draft time. I know its a little hard getting excited for it with the Cowboys only haveing one pick in the second round durring day one, but that's not going to stop the Sherpa of Camping, Tioga, from rocking his crazy indepth mock draft. So while i'm working on mine, you can take a gander at this peice of work, which is both more thought out, and way smarter than anything i'll put out in the next few weeks.
well, here is my 2nd round... although way harder to predict, I feel pretty confident it'll come pretty close.
Most of the value in this draft comes in the top of the 2nd round and with WR, OL, and DE/OLB being somewhat deep this year several talented players can be had even towards the end of it. Since the 1st round carries a more significant price tag teams are more likely to draft the best player available, but in the 2nd teams are more apt to fill needs. This year since the 1st round talent seems to be more of a 2nd round quality it's hard to predict exactly where teams will go. With that in mind I factored in that the 1st round would be used to fill needs and that the 2nd would fill roster holes even more so. Therefore, several players that probably would be drafted in the 3rd in most drafts will come off the board in the 2nd this year... esp at CB and S where there is a real lack of talent, but high demand.
33) Det - CB Alphonso Smith, Wake Forest. New coach Jim Schwartz, the former D co-ordinator with the Titans will look to re-tool one of the worst defenses last year. Even though he's only 5'9, Smith is very instinctive with natural ball skills; he has good hands, and is a competive, confident, gamer.
34) NE - CB Darius Butler, Connecticut. The Patriots use the pick from the Cassell deal and select a CB whom may be the most athletic pure cover corner in this draft. NE worked him out and hope he is still available when they pick in order to re-vamp their secondary. The reason he should fall to them is that even though he's a great athlete (43 in vertical) is because he has a slight frame (183lbs) and becasue he plays a finese game. Had 0 interceptions his senior year.
35) SL - S Patrick Chung, Oregon. In a suprise pick, the Rams reach for Chung over Delmas. The reason for doing so is because they need an upgrade over SS Todd Johnson from last year and Delmas is more of a FS. Even so, Chung was a dynamic passionate playmaking S for Oregon last season who is compared to a poor mans Bob Sanders.
36) Cle - WR Percy Harvin, Florida. In a lucky break, the Browns may select a dynamic playmaker who fell from the 1st round. With Edwards possibly traded, and no #2 reciever to speak of; Harvin could make either Anderson or Quinn giddy come draft day.
37) Sea - DE Michael Johnson, Georgia Tech. With the signing of Houshmandzedah the Seahawks can opt to grab the last of the top 4-3 DE's instead of WR. Johnson is a pass rush speacialist who can play a part time role while learning how to hold up against the run. Has a 6'7 265 lb frame with freakish athletic ability but needs to toughen up and not be such a finese/soft player.
38) *NO* - S Louis Delmas, Western Michigan. The Saints traded down with Cincinati and still got the player they wanted plus a pick next year. Even though it could be said that CB may be a more pressing need, S is just as much an urgent need in the Big Easy as the Saints gave up more big plays than just about any other team. Delmas is an athletic aggressive defender who can be a centerfielder that would make big plays instead for NO.
39) JV - T Will Beatty, Connecticut. Even though they signed Tra Thomas (there's a reason the Eagles let him go), the Jaguars still need OL help and Beatty is one of the fastest rising prospects with some people giving him a later 1st round grade. He is an athletic LT type who may be a little too finesse for some teams; but there's no denying his potential to be a shut down pass blocker.
40) Oak - S William Moore, Missouri. The Raiders still need a T even though they signed Khalif Barnes as well as a DT to come in and hopefully beat out the underachieving Kelly and Warren; but when a freak athlete like Moore is on the board Al Davis wont hesitate to get him. Moore is big and fast at 6'2 220 4.5, but he tends to be more straight linish than fluid and even though he's well built, has been dinged up too often.
41) GB - NT Ron Brace, Boston College. Even though Ryan Simms is penciled in as the starting NT, it'd be hard to pass on Brace who is a pure NT type who played well at BC. With all the 3-4's now and with how hard it is to find a good Nose, the Packers would be happy with finding one in the 2nd.
42) Buf - C Alex Mack, California. In a division that has all 3-4 big NT's the Bills would be wise to draft a C with some size and strength to handle them. Lynch, Edwards, and TO should love this pick. If DE Johnson falls here then Buffalo would be ecstatic.
43) SF - S Rashad Johnson, Alabama. FS Roman Harper has made a play since the Clinton administration it seems so the 49ers would welcome Johnson who managed to make several big plays for 'Bama this past season.
44) Mia - S/CB Jarius Byrd, Oregon. Byrd, son of a former NFL CB, player corner for the Ducks last season but lacks the speed to stay there in the pros. He's a very smart and instinctive player who plays faster than he times. He is the type of player Parcells likes and gives the 'Fins versitility.
45) NYG - DE/OLB Larry English, N. Illinois. Even though the Giants could go with OL here, English is an intriguing prospect. An athletic DE that has been a long time producer in college, some scouts have him rated as a 1st round prospect. Has experience dropping into zones, but his motor and quickness make him great at playing forward. NY needs OLB and English should prove a better project then Kiwanuka experiment a couple of years ago... if nothing else then he is yet one more rotational pass rusher.
46) Hou - S Chip Vaugh, Wake Forest. Should be the 3rd player drafted from this basketball school, Vaugh is a good athlete with size. His numbers (6'1 220 4.45) suggest low 1st/high 2nd round, but his lack of instincts and production put him in the 3rd or 4th. A converted WR who is still learning the position, his upside is tempting. The Texans are still looking to draft their 1st quality safety after all these years, and are willing to gamble that within a couple of years Vaugh could become a game changer.
47) NE - CB/S Sean Smith, Utah. The Patriots continue to re-stock their secondary even though OL and DL should be considered here. With a lack of DB talent but several OL and DL prospects to be had later Smith gets the nod. A former WR turned CB for the BCS Utah team, at 6'3 214 4.5, Smith has the tools to be appealing to Belicheck... if nothing else as a special package DB in the Red Zone.
48) Den - DE Fili Moaula, USC. Even though Thomas and Robertson "might" be able to convert to DE, the Broncos hedge their bet with the productive Moaula who was a playmaking athletic DT for the Trojans.
49) Chi - WR Brian Robinski, Ohio St. Son of former WR and current coach Terry Robinski, Brian should be tempting to the Bears with their 1st pick. The team traded for Cutler and then signed Pace. Unless they go for either Holt or Harrison, Chicago needs to get a WR to go with their new look Offense. Robinski is a possesion WR who shows good hands, routes, and passion to be a good compliment to Hester.
50) Cle - C/G Max Unger, Oregon. Even though DB, esp S, is a big need; the Browns select one of the top lineman to replace C Hank Fraley. Some drafts have Unger as a late 1st round talent so he offers good value here to go along with need. A former T with 6'4 309 size, Unger is versitle and with added strength could help against the big NT in Pit and Bal.
51) Dal - S Darcel McBath, Texas Tech. Poor Dallas has to watch a run on S's before they go on the clock and settle for reaching on McBath. A former CB who moved to FS, Darcel is a centerfielder who consitently made big plays in college. A bit skinny and tends to shy from contact; his great athleticism for the position and ball skills should offset his lack of physicalness. Shows the feet and hips to possibly move back to CB.
52) *GB* - CB Donald Washington, Ohio St. The Packers are getting old at CB and need to initiate a youth movement... unfortunatly this is a bad year to shop for a CB. Washington has good size and was labeled the best athlete on the Buckeyes. He may have maturity/character issues after getting in trouble and being demoted to NB at OSU, but could turn out to be a good value pick here if his issues are behind him. GB could also go T here with the pick they got from the Jets.
53) Phi - RB Donald Brown, Connecticut. The Eagles need a TE but with several pass catching ones available this year they can afford to wait til later. Instead they look to draft Westbrooks new caddy and land the drafts 3rd best RB. Brown could be an everydown back incase needed to fill in for injury and shows good run instincts and pass catching ability.
54) Min - WR Mohamed Massaquoi, Georgia. The Vickings need a #2 WR to pair opposite deep threat Berrian and even though it's a reach, Massaquoi could be that player. A quality WR would help Peterson and who ever wins the QB battle between Jackson and Rosenfells. Some scouts have Mohamed as a 2nd round guy due to his fluidness, size, and good route running; that and his competitivness, down field blocking, and clutch catches. What lowers him in others view are his drops and lack of production (played with the #1 pick at QB.) Either way should be able to beat out Sidney Rice.
55) Atl - S Michael Hamlin, Clemson. Needing a SS to come in and start right away with the departure of 35 year old Lawyer Miloy, the Falcons reach a little to tab Hamlin, the last of the quality S prospects. Decent athlete with good size; even though he lacks top end speed, Hamlin's instincs, ball skills, and physicalness should make him a decent starter.
56) Mia - WR Ramses Barden, Cal Poly. In what would be the biggest reach of the draft, hopefully Parcells would trade down to select the type of WR he covets. The assets that will intrigue the Tuna are Barden's size, his hands, and did I mention his size? At 6'6 230 he would be an instant Red Zone threat, something the speedy yet small Ginn, and spare's Camarillo and Bess aren't. In Barden, Big Bill will finally land his Keyshawn/T O Owens type WR and if he doesn't reach for him here then someone else will soon there after. Worse case scenerio he becomes a TE/HB.
57) Bal - CB/S Sherrod Martin, Troy. Even though ILB Jasper Brinkley is still on the board, the Ravens instead look to improve at CB. Martin played S in college but shows the natural movement skills and athleticism to play CB. A bit of a project but thanks to the success of other Troy players before him should be drafted sooner rather than later.
58) NE - DE Jarron Gilbert, San Jose St. A freakish athlete, very intriguing 3-4 DE prospect. Is 6'5 288 and runs a 4.8 and even has the frame to get bigger... extremly athletic and agile. Is very raw still and didn't dominate as he should have in college; with all 3 Patriot DE's set to become free agents next year, Gilbert could develop behind them and then come out of nowhere to blow up next year. A very Belicheck/Parcells kind of pick.
59) Car - DE Paul Kruger, Utah. Finally getting to pick, the Panthers reach on a DE purely out of need. Even if they don't lose Peppers, they still need a DE and Kruger is the last of the 4-3 DE with any pass rush ability. An overaged work out warrior type with injury history, Kruger is still raw and with seasoning and added size could become solid in a year or two.
60) NYG - DT Sen'Derrick Marks, Auburn. The Giants don't have many areas of need and opt to go fof Marks who is a quality DT that is a penetrater with the frame to get bigger. A 2nd/3rd round talent, the Giants get value here and can afford to bring him along slowly to eventualy replace one of their current starters who are getting a little long in the tooth.
61) Ind - WR Derrick Williams, Penn St. The Colts could go several ways here with a DT if they go WR in the 1st, or with C Eric Wood to caddy for Jeff Saturday. If they go with Hood in the 1st then Williams would be a good consilation prize here this late in the 2nd. Productive versitle player with decent size, (5'11 194), who plays quick; Williams could help ease the loss of Harrison.
62) Ten - CB/S Coye Francies, San Jose St. With Harper becoming a FA at the end of the season, the Titans could opt to draft his replacement before the season starts. Fluid, physical, hard worker with good size and ball skills who plays faster than he times. Has the potential to play as a press CB or even move over to FS if that doesn't work.
63) Arizona - DE/OLB Lawrence Sidbury, Richmond. The Cardinals could go with C Eric Wood, but they need to get better at rushing the passer and when they pick again most if not all of the pass rushers should be gone. A bit of a reach, Sidbury is an intriguing small school prospect with freakish athletic ability. At 6'2 266 4.54 has the measurables to develop into a top pass rusher, but he is still very raw at thsi point. Even though his tapes don't warrant it, he shouldn't last much further past this point in the draft.
64) Pit - T Phil Loadholt, Oklahoma. Even though the Steelers drafted a T earlier, they need both a LT and RT prospect with only Max Starks and Tony Hills on the roster. Loadholt carries a mid 2nd round grade so getting him here would be a steal; plus at 6'8 332 he is a monster that plays the physical mauling style of ball that the Steelers incorporate. May lack the leverage to move inside due to his height.
And that as Paul Harvey says is the rest of the story. I'm not even going to try to guess at the crap shoot that's going to be the 3rd round but I can guarantee that there will be several athletic pass catching TE's, several OG/RT players, and quite a few DE/DT type tweeners go off the board as there are several 3-4 teams looking for that type of D-Lineman. There are still a handfull of good WR prospects, a NT or two, and quite a few athletic WLB type players left also. The last of the decent CB's and pass rushers ought to move in the 3rd, but pretty much all that's left at S are big, in the box, types.
well, here is my 2nd round... although way harder to predict, I feel pretty confident it'll come pretty close.
Most of the value in this draft comes in the top of the 2nd round and with WR, OL, and DE/OLB being somewhat deep this year several talented players can be had even towards the end of it. Since the 1st round carries a more significant price tag teams are more likely to draft the best player available, but in the 2nd teams are more apt to fill needs. This year since the 1st round talent seems to be more of a 2nd round quality it's hard to predict exactly where teams will go. With that in mind I factored in that the 1st round would be used to fill needs and that the 2nd would fill roster holes even more so. Therefore, several players that probably would be drafted in the 3rd in most drafts will come off the board in the 2nd this year... esp at CB and S where there is a real lack of talent, but high demand.
33) Det - CB Alphonso Smith, Wake Forest. New coach Jim Schwartz, the former D co-ordinator with the Titans will look to re-tool one of the worst defenses last year. Even though he's only 5'9, Smith is very instinctive with natural ball skills; he has good hands, and is a competive, confident, gamer.
34) NE - CB Darius Butler, Connecticut. The Patriots use the pick from the Cassell deal and select a CB whom may be the most athletic pure cover corner in this draft. NE worked him out and hope he is still available when they pick in order to re-vamp their secondary. The reason he should fall to them is that even though he's a great athlete (43 in vertical) is because he has a slight frame (183lbs) and becasue he plays a finese game. Had 0 interceptions his senior year.
35) SL - S Patrick Chung, Oregon. In a suprise pick, the Rams reach for Chung over Delmas. The reason for doing so is because they need an upgrade over SS Todd Johnson from last year and Delmas is more of a FS. Even so, Chung was a dynamic passionate playmaking S for Oregon last season who is compared to a poor mans Bob Sanders.
36) Cle - WR Percy Harvin, Florida. In a lucky break, the Browns may select a dynamic playmaker who fell from the 1st round. With Edwards possibly traded, and no #2 reciever to speak of; Harvin could make either Anderson or Quinn giddy come draft day.
37) Sea - DE Michael Johnson, Georgia Tech. With the signing of Houshmandzedah the Seahawks can opt to grab the last of the top 4-3 DE's instead of WR. Johnson is a pass rush speacialist who can play a part time role while learning how to hold up against the run. Has a 6'7 265 lb frame with freakish athletic ability but needs to toughen up and not be such a finese/soft player.
38) *NO* - S Louis Delmas, Western Michigan. The Saints traded down with Cincinati and still got the player they wanted plus a pick next year. Even though it could be said that CB may be a more pressing need, S is just as much an urgent need in the Big Easy as the Saints gave up more big plays than just about any other team. Delmas is an athletic aggressive defender who can be a centerfielder that would make big plays instead for NO.
39) JV - T Will Beatty, Connecticut. Even though they signed Tra Thomas (there's a reason the Eagles let him go), the Jaguars still need OL help and Beatty is one of the fastest rising prospects with some people giving him a later 1st round grade. He is an athletic LT type who may be a little too finesse for some teams; but there's no denying his potential to be a shut down pass blocker.
40) Oak - S William Moore, Missouri. The Raiders still need a T even though they signed Khalif Barnes as well as a DT to come in and hopefully beat out the underachieving Kelly and Warren; but when a freak athlete like Moore is on the board Al Davis wont hesitate to get him. Moore is big and fast at 6'2 220 4.5, but he tends to be more straight linish than fluid and even though he's well built, has been dinged up too often.
41) GB - NT Ron Brace, Boston College. Even though Ryan Simms is penciled in as the starting NT, it'd be hard to pass on Brace who is a pure NT type who played well at BC. With all the 3-4's now and with how hard it is to find a good Nose, the Packers would be happy with finding one in the 2nd.
42) Buf - C Alex Mack, California. In a division that has all 3-4 big NT's the Bills would be wise to draft a C with some size and strength to handle them. Lynch, Edwards, and TO should love this pick. If DE Johnson falls here then Buffalo would be ecstatic.
43) SF - S Rashad Johnson, Alabama. FS Roman Harper has made a play since the Clinton administration it seems so the 49ers would welcome Johnson who managed to make several big plays for 'Bama this past season.
44) Mia - S/CB Jarius Byrd, Oregon. Byrd, son of a former NFL CB, player corner for the Ducks last season but lacks the speed to stay there in the pros. He's a very smart and instinctive player who plays faster than he times. He is the type of player Parcells likes and gives the 'Fins versitility.
45) NYG - DE/OLB Larry English, N. Illinois. Even though the Giants could go with OL here, English is an intriguing prospect. An athletic DE that has been a long time producer in college, some scouts have him rated as a 1st round prospect. Has experience dropping into zones, but his motor and quickness make him great at playing forward. NY needs OLB and English should prove a better project then Kiwanuka experiment a couple of years ago... if nothing else then he is yet one more rotational pass rusher.
46) Hou - S Chip Vaugh, Wake Forest. Should be the 3rd player drafted from this basketball school, Vaugh is a good athlete with size. His numbers (6'1 220 4.45) suggest low 1st/high 2nd round, but his lack of instincts and production put him in the 3rd or 4th. A converted WR who is still learning the position, his upside is tempting. The Texans are still looking to draft their 1st quality safety after all these years, and are willing to gamble that within a couple of years Vaugh could become a game changer.
47) NE - CB/S Sean Smith, Utah. The Patriots continue to re-stock their secondary even though OL and DL should be considered here. With a lack of DB talent but several OL and DL prospects to be had later Smith gets the nod. A former WR turned CB for the BCS Utah team, at 6'3 214 4.5, Smith has the tools to be appealing to Belicheck... if nothing else as a special package DB in the Red Zone.
48) Den - DE Fili Moaula, USC. Even though Thomas and Robertson "might" be able to convert to DE, the Broncos hedge their bet with the productive Moaula who was a playmaking athletic DT for the Trojans.
49) Chi - WR Brian Robinski, Ohio St. Son of former WR and current coach Terry Robinski, Brian should be tempting to the Bears with their 1st pick. The team traded for Cutler and then signed Pace. Unless they go for either Holt or Harrison, Chicago needs to get a WR to go with their new look Offense. Robinski is a possesion WR who shows good hands, routes, and passion to be a good compliment to Hester.
50) Cle - C/G Max Unger, Oregon. Even though DB, esp S, is a big need; the Browns select one of the top lineman to replace C Hank Fraley. Some drafts have Unger as a late 1st round talent so he offers good value here to go along with need. A former T with 6'4 309 size, Unger is versitle and with added strength could help against the big NT in Pit and Bal.
51) Dal - S Darcel McBath, Texas Tech. Poor Dallas has to watch a run on S's before they go on the clock and settle for reaching on McBath. A former CB who moved to FS, Darcel is a centerfielder who consitently made big plays in college. A bit skinny and tends to shy from contact; his great athleticism for the position and ball skills should offset his lack of physicalness. Shows the feet and hips to possibly move back to CB.
52) *GB* - CB Donald Washington, Ohio St. The Packers are getting old at CB and need to initiate a youth movement... unfortunatly this is a bad year to shop for a CB. Washington has good size and was labeled the best athlete on the Buckeyes. He may have maturity/character issues after getting in trouble and being demoted to NB at OSU, but could turn out to be a good value pick here if his issues are behind him. GB could also go T here with the pick they got from the Jets.
53) Phi - RB Donald Brown, Connecticut. The Eagles need a TE but with several pass catching ones available this year they can afford to wait til later. Instead they look to draft Westbrooks new caddy and land the drafts 3rd best RB. Brown could be an everydown back incase needed to fill in for injury and shows good run instincts and pass catching ability.
54) Min - WR Mohamed Massaquoi, Georgia. The Vickings need a #2 WR to pair opposite deep threat Berrian and even though it's a reach, Massaquoi could be that player. A quality WR would help Peterson and who ever wins the QB battle between Jackson and Rosenfells. Some scouts have Mohamed as a 2nd round guy due to his fluidness, size, and good route running; that and his competitivness, down field blocking, and clutch catches. What lowers him in others view are his drops and lack of production (played with the #1 pick at QB.) Either way should be able to beat out Sidney Rice.
55) Atl - S Michael Hamlin, Clemson. Needing a SS to come in and start right away with the departure of 35 year old Lawyer Miloy, the Falcons reach a little to tab Hamlin, the last of the quality S prospects. Decent athlete with good size; even though he lacks top end speed, Hamlin's instincs, ball skills, and physicalness should make him a decent starter.
56) Mia - WR Ramses Barden, Cal Poly. In what would be the biggest reach of the draft, hopefully Parcells would trade down to select the type of WR he covets. The assets that will intrigue the Tuna are Barden's size, his hands, and did I mention his size? At 6'6 230 he would be an instant Red Zone threat, something the speedy yet small Ginn, and spare's Camarillo and Bess aren't. In Barden, Big Bill will finally land his Keyshawn/T O Owens type WR and if he doesn't reach for him here then someone else will soon there after. Worse case scenerio he becomes a TE/HB.
57) Bal - CB/S Sherrod Martin, Troy. Even though ILB Jasper Brinkley is still on the board, the Ravens instead look to improve at CB. Martin played S in college but shows the natural movement skills and athleticism to play CB. A bit of a project but thanks to the success of other Troy players before him should be drafted sooner rather than later.
58) NE - DE Jarron Gilbert, San Jose St. A freakish athlete, very intriguing 3-4 DE prospect. Is 6'5 288 and runs a 4.8 and even has the frame to get bigger... extremly athletic and agile. Is very raw still and didn't dominate as he should have in college; with all 3 Patriot DE's set to become free agents next year, Gilbert could develop behind them and then come out of nowhere to blow up next year. A very Belicheck/Parcells kind of pick.
59) Car - DE Paul Kruger, Utah. Finally getting to pick, the Panthers reach on a DE purely out of need. Even if they don't lose Peppers, they still need a DE and Kruger is the last of the 4-3 DE with any pass rush ability. An overaged work out warrior type with injury history, Kruger is still raw and with seasoning and added size could become solid in a year or two.
60) NYG - DT Sen'Derrick Marks, Auburn. The Giants don't have many areas of need and opt to go fof Marks who is a quality DT that is a penetrater with the frame to get bigger. A 2nd/3rd round talent, the Giants get value here and can afford to bring him along slowly to eventualy replace one of their current starters who are getting a little long in the tooth.
61) Ind - WR Derrick Williams, Penn St. The Colts could go several ways here with a DT if they go WR in the 1st, or with C Eric Wood to caddy for Jeff Saturday. If they go with Hood in the 1st then Williams would be a good consilation prize here this late in the 2nd. Productive versitle player with decent size, (5'11 194), who plays quick; Williams could help ease the loss of Harrison.
62) Ten - CB/S Coye Francies, San Jose St. With Harper becoming a FA at the end of the season, the Titans could opt to draft his replacement before the season starts. Fluid, physical, hard worker with good size and ball skills who plays faster than he times. Has the potential to play as a press CB or even move over to FS if that doesn't work.
63) Arizona - DE/OLB Lawrence Sidbury, Richmond. The Cardinals could go with C Eric Wood, but they need to get better at rushing the passer and when they pick again most if not all of the pass rushers should be gone. A bit of a reach, Sidbury is an intriguing small school prospect with freakish athletic ability. At 6'2 266 4.54 has the measurables to develop into a top pass rusher, but he is still very raw at thsi point. Even though his tapes don't warrant it, he shouldn't last much further past this point in the draft.
64) Pit - T Phil Loadholt, Oklahoma. Even though the Steelers drafted a T earlier, they need both a LT and RT prospect with only Max Starks and Tony Hills on the roster. Loadholt carries a mid 2nd round grade so getting him here would be a steal; plus at 6'8 332 he is a monster that plays the physical mauling style of ball that the Steelers incorporate. May lack the leverage to move inside due to his height.
And that as Paul Harvey says is the rest of the story. I'm not even going to try to guess at the crap shoot that's going to be the 3rd round but I can guarantee that there will be several athletic pass catching TE's, several OG/RT players, and quite a few DE/DT type tweeners go off the board as there are several 3-4 teams looking for that type of D-Lineman. There are still a handfull of good WR prospects, a NT or two, and quite a few athletic WLB type players left also. The last of the decent CB's and pass rushers ought to move in the 3rd, but pretty much all that's left at S are big, in the box, types.
Monday, April 13, 2009
The Sherpa Speaks on what he knows best, The Draft
Its draft time. I know its a little hard getting excited for it with the Cowboys only haveing one pick in the second round durring day one, but that's not going to stop the Sherpa of Camping, Tioga, from rocking his crazy indepth mock draft. So while i'm working on mine, you can take a gander at this peice of work, which is both more thought out, and way smarter than anything i'll put out in the next few weeks.
( * signifies a draft day trade. )
1) Detroit - QB Mathew Stafford, Georgia. In a chicken or the egg type conumdrum the LT or the QB debate rages over this pick. My take on it is that LT can be found up and down the top 20 picks in most drafts, even 2nd round players make pro bowl type careers while it pretty much takes a top 5 pick to secure a franchise QB. Stafford has several blue chip tools to work with having an Elway-esque cannon. His accuracy and decision making are a little shaky for the #1 pick as is the track record for junior QB's; but in the end I see the Lions opting for the pick that could spring board the franchise outta the cellar in the near future.
2) St Louis - T Jason Smith, Baylor. Even if Det takes a tackle the Rams will still have one left unlike last year when they missed on Long. This is almost a sure bet with the Rams having severe OL woes. The only debate is whether it's Smith or Monroe; with Smith edging Monroe out on the merit of being more aggressive on the field. A good athlete with adequate size and strength, it's his on the field play and demeanor that make Smith a future Pro Bowl player for years to come.
3) Kansas City - LB Aaron Curry, Wake Forrest. The first of the draft wild cards, the Chiefs could be one of many teams willing to trade down to gain more value and rebuild their team even faster. That said, if the Chiefs stand pat there are several ways they could go here. They need a quality #2 WR, multiple OL help, and OLB's; with this draft being deep on WR and OT talent but thin on LB help, I feel they'll look there 1st. I've seen mock's listing OT to protect new QB Cassle, but they've already got Albert. While LT Monroe seems pretty sound, I feel that they go with the best player overall in the draft and select Curry to fortify their defense for years to come. He's versatile enough to play inside or out and posses the tools to become a pass rusher even though not asked to do so in college. He helps Kansas City incorporate the 3-4 GM Pioli drafted for while with the Patriots.
4) Seattle - T Eugene Monroe, Virginia. Another team that could trade down or shake up the draft by selecting fast riser QB Sanchez; it's biggest concern at the time is retooling a shoddy line. Monroe is a smooth athletic LT that will replace the ancient Walter Jones. With as many holes as Seattle has in it's roster they'd be wise to trade down with a team in love with Sanchez... that said if they stand pat it'd be hard to finde anyone better than Monroe.
5) Cleveland - DE/OLB Brian Orakpo, Texas. This disfunctional franchise could throw a dart at their draft board and find a starter. The biggest problem they have seems to be pass rush or lack of. Orakpo has freakish athletic ability and proved in workouts that he could move to OLB. The Browns envision the next coming of Demarcus Ware and pull the trigger on a player that hopefully doesn't remind new coach Mangini of last years Ware, Vernon Gholston.
6) Cincinati - T Andre Smith, Alabama. The Bengals could go several different directions here with WR Crabtree still on the board or trading down to pick up DL help; but I feel they stay and pick the last of the blue chip Tackles. No player has seen his stock fall as fast as Smith with his mental meltdowns, but he has been creeping back up when scouts review his game tapes. With the OL play being poor in Cincianti last year, the Bengals grab a guy who can step in and start from day one either at RT or RG while being groomed to be the LT.
7) Oakland - WR Jeremy Maclin, Missouri. Ahh yes, the Raiders; always entertaining... on draft day at least. Al Davis loves speed and Maclin has it, as does Heyward-Bey, and Russell does need at least one target to throw to outside of TE Miller. It's hard to believe that he'd pass on a big name WR like Crabtree, or T Smith if he's still there; but then again crazy, old, Al doesn't do things normal. Maclin fits the "speed kills" motto, and should help QB Russell and RB McFadden.
8) Jacksonville - WR Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech. the Jaguars sensing the the top 3 OT's wouldn't fall signed stopgap free agent T Tra Thomas. That frees them up to fill their need at WR or DT; the Jags would be delighted if Crabtree slid past the Raiders. Maybe like Detroit it takes a few practice 1st round WR's to get it right and Crabtree could be that guy for JV. They could also trade down to rebuild a little quicker.
9) *New York Jets* - QB Mark Sanchez, USC. Green Bay is looking to trade down and some team looking to take Sanchez would be wise to move up past San Fransico, maybe even Seattle to get him. The Jets are built to win now, but with the retirement of Favre, they are left with a mild case of whiskey dick at QB. Publicly NY states that they believe they will win with either Clemens, Ratliff, or Ainge at QB... but then again every team says that with a new starter who's never played before. Sanchez is the only other TRUE 1st round QB this year and is the most ready to play now after coming out of a pro style college program. The price is steep, but so is the Jets pay roll after signing a slew of free agents last year who won't be around when the other two youngsters growing pains are behind them.
10) San Fransico - DE/OLB Everette Brown, Florida St. It's unknown if the 49ers would opt for Sanchez over the Hill/Smith winner at QB, but what is known is that SF needs to get a lot better on Defense with their back 7 being in bad need of repair. The 49ers need a pass rush and would be fortunate if Orakpo fell here, but will most likely have to pick between Everette Brown or Aaron Maybin. Brown is one of the best pass rushers in a long line of undersized fast DE's from FSU, and after measuring under 6'2, will have to make the move to OLB in a 3-4. Highly athletic with a quick 1st step SF rolls the dice on him to get after the QB like he did in college.
11) Buffalo - OLB Brian Cushing, USC. The Bills need more help at DE than at LB, but with a lack of DE's who can play in the 4-3 they opt for LB. Cushing is best suited for the strong side and would help stop the run, cover the TE, and rush the passer. Strength, hustle, and nose for the ball should make him a star in a blue collar town like Buffalo.
12) Denver - CB/S Malcolm Jenkins, Ohio St. The Broncos need to re-build a horrendous defense and will be switching over to a 3-4 at the same time. Without a true NT on the roster many feel that BJ Raji would be picked here, but with so few quality DB's in this draft, (worse DB class since 2000), Denver will most likely nab the only one carrying a 1st round grade. The Broncos will line up Champ Baily, Dre Bly, and Brian Dawkins and all 3 are over 30. Jenkins is from a long line of OSU CB's who go on to be solid NFL playmakers, but while he has talent, he may lack the elite athleticism needed at CB... luckily he has the size and instincts to transition to safety if needed.
13) Washington - DE Robert Ayers, Tennessee. Lacking a 2nd and 4th round pick, the Redskins should look to trade down, but with Snyder at the helm they could easily move up, or draft hot name boom or bust QB Freeman. What they can safely be said to need is a DE after Jason Taylor danced away. Ayers is a one year wonder for the 'Vols so there's some bust potential. Outside of the risk, he's the only DE with 4-3 size, (275 with frame to get up to 290), athletic enough to get to the QB, and played with good hustle this past season; he also gave top T prospects Smith and Oher problems in 1 on 1 drills at the Senior Bowl. Would team up well with new DT Haynesworth.
14) *Philadelphia* - T Michael Oher, Mississippi. New Orleans needing DB's and OLB will be looking to trade down as to not reach at the #14 pick. Philadelphia needs a LT and Oher is the last one left with a 1st round grade; they also have two 1st round picks to play with, (#21 and #28), which happen to be in the range that the Saints need to pick the players for their needs. The Eagles will have to move up to get Oher who may not even be available here this low. He is athletic enough to play LT and has the size to still be an asset in the run game.
15) Houston - CB Vontrae Davis, Illinois. Houston has needed a 2nd corner and a playmaker in the backfield ever since they were awarded a franchise. Tallent wise Davis is a top 10 pick, but personality wise he's another DeAngelo Hall. Still, in a class so devoid of CB's the Texans gamble that he can shut his mouth and shut down the AFC recievers that have torched them since their existence. If he can stop Indy at least once a year then he's worth the headache.
16) San Diego - DE Tyson Jackson, LSU. A true 3-4 end, Jackson would fill the void left by Olshansky signing with Dallas. There is a chance he may not fall this far, but you can believe the Chargers would pounce on him if he does. Naturally strong with great size for a DE, he is athletic enough to provide a rush from a position that is asked more to occupy blockers than get after the QB.
17) *Green Bay* - DE/OLB Aaron Maybin, Penn St. The Packers are looking to switch to a 3-4 with new D Co-ordinator Dom Capers so it's probable that they look to re-tool the front 7 with better suited personel. It's believed that they'll select NT Raji here, but with Ryan Simms currently there; I feel that they look instead for a pass rusher which usually are hard to find outside of the 1st round. Maybin proved at Penn St that he could get after the QB and showed great athleticism and upfield burst. With his low weight for a DE, and quickness and athleticism... he's a perfect canidate for a move to OLB in a 3-4. One other plus for the Packers is that he played in a cold weather confrence in the Big 10 so Lambeau winters shouldn't shut him down.
18) Denver - NT BJ Raji, Boston college. The Broncos are re-vamping the D and switching to a 3-4 so a NT is needed. They previously employed an undersized front 4 so their DT's can now slide out to DE and the DE's they've been drafting frequently as of late can move to OLB... but they don't have a big bodied guy to handle the Nose. Raji, whom many feel is a top 10 talent, posses great size weighing in at 337. Denver uses the "Cutler" pick to attempt to fill a hard position to find with a player who may fall to them. While Raji posses the strength to handle the NT, his game seems best suited for a 4-3 DT. Part of the reason for his fall to this pick is that he hasn't produced until his last season, seems to lack focus and stamina from time to time, and was immature with a lack of judgement early on in his college career. All that said, it's hard to find stout 340lb players.
19) Tampa Bay - DT Peria Jerry, Mississippi. The Buccaneers need to re-tool on D and even though most of the top tier players are gone, Jerry is a very solid player with a legit 1st round grade. With Ayers and Jackson gone at DE, and no 1st round athletic OLB available... Jerry fills a need at DT and should help in a confrence that runs the ball well.
20) Detroit - MLB Rey Maualuga, USC. With the "Roy Williams" pick the Lions nab the quarterback for the Defense. Many feel that they should select an OT to help protect Stafford, but with the D mostly to blame for 0-16, finding a top 15 talent to instantly improve that side of the ball would be wise. Maualuga is a big thumper who played big at a big time program; is physical enough and passionate enough to improve the Lions D from day 1.
21) *New Orleans* - OLB James Laurinaitis, Ohio St. The Saints get the player they were targeting earlier at 14. Even though DB is a stronger area of need, Laurinaitis would step into a starting role at WLB replacing the very average Scott Shanle. Instinctive and passionate player, won't wow with triangle numbers but will quickly become a leader for the Saints with his on field play and in the locker room.
22) Minnesota - T Eben Britton, Arizona. For a team that's a QB away from superbowl contention, they'd be wise to shy away from Freeman and instead start the 2nd run on OT's. Britton is the best of the 2nd tier OT's and is a natural fit at RT; a tough competitor with good size, he should step into a starting job right away.
23) New England - DE/OLB Clay Mathews, USC. With NE needing to replace aging defenders they could go a number of ways here with this pick. By trading Vrabel to KC they opened up a spot for a player that would most likely have been an upgrade over him anyways. Mathews is a Belicheck kind of player in that he is a passionate, cerebral, blue collar player who has the athletic ability to go with his hustle. His pedigree, (father Clay Sr played for Belicheck in Cleveland), and work ethic should make him a lock here.
24) Atlanta - TE Brian Pettitgrew, Oklahoma St. Even though the Falcons could have more pressing needs, it'd be hard to say that there's anybody better suited to a team. Pettitgrew is rare in the modern game in that he has phenominal size and run blocking for a position that has moved more toward "Big WR" in the college game recently. He also was a productive pass catcher at OSU and should help both Turner and Ryan.
25) Miami - OLB Clint Sintim, Virgina. I've seen where many have the New Jersey con-man selecting Rutgers WR Kenny Britt and his Keyshawn/T O Owens like size; but I feel that the Tuna goes with his other favorite position. The Dolphins need more LB's to complete their 3-4 transition and Sintim, who played for former Parcells assistant Al Groeh in college, not only showed he could rush the passer, but did so in a 3-4. Would team with Joey Porter and make QB's life difficult.
26) Baltimore - WR Darrius Heyward-Bey, Marryland. Many have the Ravens replacing departed Bart Scott at ILB, but unless Maualuga falls here, I don't see them reaching for Jasper Brinkly. Instead I see them finding a vertical threat to match with their strong arm QB Flacco in the home state Heyward-Bey whose 40 times may even get him drafted as high as the Raiders at 7.
27) Indiannapolis - DT Evander Hood, Missouri. A bit of a reach here, the Colts take a solid player at a position of need who's athletic ability and penetrating play match their system. For Indy it should come down to WR with Nicks and Harvin a good fit or DT with Hood... since the 2nd round WR talent is deeper than the DT's Hood gets the nod.
28) **Cincinati** - RB Knowshon Moreno, Georgia. The Bengals make an offer to the Saints for the pick the got from trading with the Eagles, and mortgage next years pick plus their 2nd this year to get the player they covet after he worked out privately for them. Even though some will opt for home state Wells, Moreno is the top RB and is a need for the Bengals. With so many teams set at RB or using a rotation of them, they normaly arent thought of as need picks unless blue chippers. Cincinati stops Moreno's slide and pays to move up ahead of Arizona whom also happens to need a RB. They could also be tempted by Florida's Percy Harvin, a player whom trouble seems to follow.
29) New York Giants - WR Kenny Britt, Rutgers. It's a safe bet to say most Britt fans happen to be Giants fans aswell seeing as how the Giants play in NJ. With the release of Burress NY needs to replace the tall physical WR and his big play production. Britt's size is comparable and some scouts have said that he reminds them of Brandon Marshall physically and in talent.
30) Tennessee - WR Hakeem Nicks, North Carolina. The Titans have needed a WR ever since a Rams LB tackled a WR in the open field a yard short in the superbowl. Even though Percy Harvin is still on the board it's a safe bet that Fisher won't pick a guy with Pac-Man like baggage. Instead he opts for a guy whom scouts compare to Michael Irvin. Tenessee would love to see him slide past Indy and NY and right into their starting lineup.
31) Arizona - RB Chris Wells, Ohio St. Even though the Cardinals have some other needs, RB seems to be a pressing one with the expected departure of Edgerrin James; fortunatly for them one of the best at the position falls to where they pick. For a big back, (230lbs), Wells shows suprising speed and could be a big play threat. There is also a chance the 'Cards could move Boldin in a Roy Williams-esque trade and then grab big play WR Percy Harvin here.
32) Pittsburgh - T Gerald Cadogan, Penn St. The Steelers badly need to re-build their OL as well as draft to eventually replace an old DL. They should probably attempt to trade down in order to not reach for a player with a mid to low 2nd round grade, and with QB Freeman and WR Harvin still possibly on the board they may find a taker. If not and they stay at #32 then Cadogan edges out Beatty and Loadholt due to the fact that he's more physical that Beatty and more athletic and polished than Loadholt.
There you have it, my 1st round. I've got the 2nd done too but it took so fucking long just to type this 1st round that I don't have the strength to start a whole other one. Let me know what you think about what I have so far and I'll get the round 2 to you either tomorow or within the next couple of days.
( * signifies a draft day trade. )
1) Detroit - QB Mathew Stafford, Georgia. In a chicken or the egg type conumdrum the LT or the QB debate rages over this pick. My take on it is that LT can be found up and down the top 20 picks in most drafts, even 2nd round players make pro bowl type careers while it pretty much takes a top 5 pick to secure a franchise QB. Stafford has several blue chip tools to work with having an Elway-esque cannon. His accuracy and decision making are a little shaky for the #1 pick as is the track record for junior QB's; but in the end I see the Lions opting for the pick that could spring board the franchise outta the cellar in the near future.
2) St Louis - T Jason Smith, Baylor. Even if Det takes a tackle the Rams will still have one left unlike last year when they missed on Long. This is almost a sure bet with the Rams having severe OL woes. The only debate is whether it's Smith or Monroe; with Smith edging Monroe out on the merit of being more aggressive on the field. A good athlete with adequate size and strength, it's his on the field play and demeanor that make Smith a future Pro Bowl player for years to come.
3) Kansas City - LB Aaron Curry, Wake Forrest. The first of the draft wild cards, the Chiefs could be one of many teams willing to trade down to gain more value and rebuild their team even faster. That said, if the Chiefs stand pat there are several ways they could go here. They need a quality #2 WR, multiple OL help, and OLB's; with this draft being deep on WR and OT talent but thin on LB help, I feel they'll look there 1st. I've seen mock's listing OT to protect new QB Cassle, but they've already got Albert. While LT Monroe seems pretty sound, I feel that they go with the best player overall in the draft and select Curry to fortify their defense for years to come. He's versatile enough to play inside or out and posses the tools to become a pass rusher even though not asked to do so in college. He helps Kansas City incorporate the 3-4 GM Pioli drafted for while with the Patriots.
4) Seattle - T Eugene Monroe, Virginia. Another team that could trade down or shake up the draft by selecting fast riser QB Sanchez; it's biggest concern at the time is retooling a shoddy line. Monroe is a smooth athletic LT that will replace the ancient Walter Jones. With as many holes as Seattle has in it's roster they'd be wise to trade down with a team in love with Sanchez... that said if they stand pat it'd be hard to finde anyone better than Monroe.
5) Cleveland - DE/OLB Brian Orakpo, Texas. This disfunctional franchise could throw a dart at their draft board and find a starter. The biggest problem they have seems to be pass rush or lack of. Orakpo has freakish athletic ability and proved in workouts that he could move to OLB. The Browns envision the next coming of Demarcus Ware and pull the trigger on a player that hopefully doesn't remind new coach Mangini of last years Ware, Vernon Gholston.
6) Cincinati - T Andre Smith, Alabama. The Bengals could go several different directions here with WR Crabtree still on the board or trading down to pick up DL help; but I feel they stay and pick the last of the blue chip Tackles. No player has seen his stock fall as fast as Smith with his mental meltdowns, but he has been creeping back up when scouts review his game tapes. With the OL play being poor in Cincianti last year, the Bengals grab a guy who can step in and start from day one either at RT or RG while being groomed to be the LT.
7) Oakland - WR Jeremy Maclin, Missouri. Ahh yes, the Raiders; always entertaining... on draft day at least. Al Davis loves speed and Maclin has it, as does Heyward-Bey, and Russell does need at least one target to throw to outside of TE Miller. It's hard to believe that he'd pass on a big name WR like Crabtree, or T Smith if he's still there; but then again crazy, old, Al doesn't do things normal. Maclin fits the "speed kills" motto, and should help QB Russell and RB McFadden.
8) Jacksonville - WR Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech. the Jaguars sensing the the top 3 OT's wouldn't fall signed stopgap free agent T Tra Thomas. That frees them up to fill their need at WR or DT; the Jags would be delighted if Crabtree slid past the Raiders. Maybe like Detroit it takes a few practice 1st round WR's to get it right and Crabtree could be that guy for JV. They could also trade down to rebuild a little quicker.
9) *New York Jets* - QB Mark Sanchez, USC. Green Bay is looking to trade down and some team looking to take Sanchez would be wise to move up past San Fransico, maybe even Seattle to get him. The Jets are built to win now, but with the retirement of Favre, they are left with a mild case of whiskey dick at QB. Publicly NY states that they believe they will win with either Clemens, Ratliff, or Ainge at QB... but then again every team says that with a new starter who's never played before. Sanchez is the only other TRUE 1st round QB this year and is the most ready to play now after coming out of a pro style college program. The price is steep, but so is the Jets pay roll after signing a slew of free agents last year who won't be around when the other two youngsters growing pains are behind them.
10) San Fransico - DE/OLB Everette Brown, Florida St. It's unknown if the 49ers would opt for Sanchez over the Hill/Smith winner at QB, but what is known is that SF needs to get a lot better on Defense with their back 7 being in bad need of repair. The 49ers need a pass rush and would be fortunate if Orakpo fell here, but will most likely have to pick between Everette Brown or Aaron Maybin. Brown is one of the best pass rushers in a long line of undersized fast DE's from FSU, and after measuring under 6'2, will have to make the move to OLB in a 3-4. Highly athletic with a quick 1st step SF rolls the dice on him to get after the QB like he did in college.
11) Buffalo - OLB Brian Cushing, USC. The Bills need more help at DE than at LB, but with a lack of DE's who can play in the 4-3 they opt for LB. Cushing is best suited for the strong side and would help stop the run, cover the TE, and rush the passer. Strength, hustle, and nose for the ball should make him a star in a blue collar town like Buffalo.
12) Denver - CB/S Malcolm Jenkins, Ohio St. The Broncos need to re-build a horrendous defense and will be switching over to a 3-4 at the same time. Without a true NT on the roster many feel that BJ Raji would be picked here, but with so few quality DB's in this draft, (worse DB class since 2000), Denver will most likely nab the only one carrying a 1st round grade. The Broncos will line up Champ Baily, Dre Bly, and Brian Dawkins and all 3 are over 30. Jenkins is from a long line of OSU CB's who go on to be solid NFL playmakers, but while he has talent, he may lack the elite athleticism needed at CB... luckily he has the size and instincts to transition to safety if needed.
13) Washington - DE Robert Ayers, Tennessee. Lacking a 2nd and 4th round pick, the Redskins should look to trade down, but with Snyder at the helm they could easily move up, or draft hot name boom or bust QB Freeman. What they can safely be said to need is a DE after Jason Taylor danced away. Ayers is a one year wonder for the 'Vols so there's some bust potential. Outside of the risk, he's the only DE with 4-3 size, (275 with frame to get up to 290), athletic enough to get to the QB, and played with good hustle this past season; he also gave top T prospects Smith and Oher problems in 1 on 1 drills at the Senior Bowl. Would team up well with new DT Haynesworth.
14) *Philadelphia* - T Michael Oher, Mississippi. New Orleans needing DB's and OLB will be looking to trade down as to not reach at the #14 pick. Philadelphia needs a LT and Oher is the last one left with a 1st round grade; they also have two 1st round picks to play with, (#21 and #28), which happen to be in the range that the Saints need to pick the players for their needs. The Eagles will have to move up to get Oher who may not even be available here this low. He is athletic enough to play LT and has the size to still be an asset in the run game.
15) Houston - CB Vontrae Davis, Illinois. Houston has needed a 2nd corner and a playmaker in the backfield ever since they were awarded a franchise. Tallent wise Davis is a top 10 pick, but personality wise he's another DeAngelo Hall. Still, in a class so devoid of CB's the Texans gamble that he can shut his mouth and shut down the AFC recievers that have torched them since their existence. If he can stop Indy at least once a year then he's worth the headache.
16) San Diego - DE Tyson Jackson, LSU. A true 3-4 end, Jackson would fill the void left by Olshansky signing with Dallas. There is a chance he may not fall this far, but you can believe the Chargers would pounce on him if he does. Naturally strong with great size for a DE, he is athletic enough to provide a rush from a position that is asked more to occupy blockers than get after the QB.
17) *Green Bay* - DE/OLB Aaron Maybin, Penn St. The Packers are looking to switch to a 3-4 with new D Co-ordinator Dom Capers so it's probable that they look to re-tool the front 7 with better suited personel. It's believed that they'll select NT Raji here, but with Ryan Simms currently there; I feel that they look instead for a pass rusher which usually are hard to find outside of the 1st round. Maybin proved at Penn St that he could get after the QB and showed great athleticism and upfield burst. With his low weight for a DE, and quickness and athleticism... he's a perfect canidate for a move to OLB in a 3-4. One other plus for the Packers is that he played in a cold weather confrence in the Big 10 so Lambeau winters shouldn't shut him down.
18) Denver - NT BJ Raji, Boston college. The Broncos are re-vamping the D and switching to a 3-4 so a NT is needed. They previously employed an undersized front 4 so their DT's can now slide out to DE and the DE's they've been drafting frequently as of late can move to OLB... but they don't have a big bodied guy to handle the Nose. Raji, whom many feel is a top 10 talent, posses great size weighing in at 337. Denver uses the "Cutler" pick to attempt to fill a hard position to find with a player who may fall to them. While Raji posses the strength to handle the NT, his game seems best suited for a 4-3 DT. Part of the reason for his fall to this pick is that he hasn't produced until his last season, seems to lack focus and stamina from time to time, and was immature with a lack of judgement early on in his college career. All that said, it's hard to find stout 340lb players.
19) Tampa Bay - DT Peria Jerry, Mississippi. The Buccaneers need to re-tool on D and even though most of the top tier players are gone, Jerry is a very solid player with a legit 1st round grade. With Ayers and Jackson gone at DE, and no 1st round athletic OLB available... Jerry fills a need at DT and should help in a confrence that runs the ball well.
20) Detroit - MLB Rey Maualuga, USC. With the "Roy Williams" pick the Lions nab the quarterback for the Defense. Many feel that they should select an OT to help protect Stafford, but with the D mostly to blame for 0-16, finding a top 15 talent to instantly improve that side of the ball would be wise. Maualuga is a big thumper who played big at a big time program; is physical enough and passionate enough to improve the Lions D from day 1.
21) *New Orleans* - OLB James Laurinaitis, Ohio St. The Saints get the player they were targeting earlier at 14. Even though DB is a stronger area of need, Laurinaitis would step into a starting role at WLB replacing the very average Scott Shanle. Instinctive and passionate player, won't wow with triangle numbers but will quickly become a leader for the Saints with his on field play and in the locker room.
22) Minnesota - T Eben Britton, Arizona. For a team that's a QB away from superbowl contention, they'd be wise to shy away from Freeman and instead start the 2nd run on OT's. Britton is the best of the 2nd tier OT's and is a natural fit at RT; a tough competitor with good size, he should step into a starting job right away.
23) New England - DE/OLB Clay Mathews, USC. With NE needing to replace aging defenders they could go a number of ways here with this pick. By trading Vrabel to KC they opened up a spot for a player that would most likely have been an upgrade over him anyways. Mathews is a Belicheck kind of player in that he is a passionate, cerebral, blue collar player who has the athletic ability to go with his hustle. His pedigree, (father Clay Sr played for Belicheck in Cleveland), and work ethic should make him a lock here.
24) Atlanta - TE Brian Pettitgrew, Oklahoma St. Even though the Falcons could have more pressing needs, it'd be hard to say that there's anybody better suited to a team. Pettitgrew is rare in the modern game in that he has phenominal size and run blocking for a position that has moved more toward "Big WR" in the college game recently. He also was a productive pass catcher at OSU and should help both Turner and Ryan.
25) Miami - OLB Clint Sintim, Virgina. I've seen where many have the New Jersey con-man selecting Rutgers WR Kenny Britt and his Keyshawn/T O Owens like size; but I feel that the Tuna goes with his other favorite position. The Dolphins need more LB's to complete their 3-4 transition and Sintim, who played for former Parcells assistant Al Groeh in college, not only showed he could rush the passer, but did so in a 3-4. Would team with Joey Porter and make QB's life difficult.
26) Baltimore - WR Darrius Heyward-Bey, Marryland. Many have the Ravens replacing departed Bart Scott at ILB, but unless Maualuga falls here, I don't see them reaching for Jasper Brinkly. Instead I see them finding a vertical threat to match with their strong arm QB Flacco in the home state Heyward-Bey whose 40 times may even get him drafted as high as the Raiders at 7.
27) Indiannapolis - DT Evander Hood, Missouri. A bit of a reach here, the Colts take a solid player at a position of need who's athletic ability and penetrating play match their system. For Indy it should come down to WR with Nicks and Harvin a good fit or DT with Hood... since the 2nd round WR talent is deeper than the DT's Hood gets the nod.
28) **Cincinati** - RB Knowshon Moreno, Georgia. The Bengals make an offer to the Saints for the pick the got from trading with the Eagles, and mortgage next years pick plus their 2nd this year to get the player they covet after he worked out privately for them. Even though some will opt for home state Wells, Moreno is the top RB and is a need for the Bengals. With so many teams set at RB or using a rotation of them, they normaly arent thought of as need picks unless blue chippers. Cincinati stops Moreno's slide and pays to move up ahead of Arizona whom also happens to need a RB. They could also be tempted by Florida's Percy Harvin, a player whom trouble seems to follow.
29) New York Giants - WR Kenny Britt, Rutgers. It's a safe bet to say most Britt fans happen to be Giants fans aswell seeing as how the Giants play in NJ. With the release of Burress NY needs to replace the tall physical WR and his big play production. Britt's size is comparable and some scouts have said that he reminds them of Brandon Marshall physically and in talent.
30) Tennessee - WR Hakeem Nicks, North Carolina. The Titans have needed a WR ever since a Rams LB tackled a WR in the open field a yard short in the superbowl. Even though Percy Harvin is still on the board it's a safe bet that Fisher won't pick a guy with Pac-Man like baggage. Instead he opts for a guy whom scouts compare to Michael Irvin. Tenessee would love to see him slide past Indy and NY and right into their starting lineup.
31) Arizona - RB Chris Wells, Ohio St. Even though the Cardinals have some other needs, RB seems to be a pressing one with the expected departure of Edgerrin James; fortunatly for them one of the best at the position falls to where they pick. For a big back, (230lbs), Wells shows suprising speed and could be a big play threat. There is also a chance the 'Cards could move Boldin in a Roy Williams-esque trade and then grab big play WR Percy Harvin here.
32) Pittsburgh - T Gerald Cadogan, Penn St. The Steelers badly need to re-build their OL as well as draft to eventually replace an old DL. They should probably attempt to trade down in order to not reach for a player with a mid to low 2nd round grade, and with QB Freeman and WR Harvin still possibly on the board they may find a taker. If not and they stay at #32 then Cadogan edges out Beatty and Loadholt due to the fact that he's more physical that Beatty and more athletic and polished than Loadholt.
There you have it, my 1st round. I've got the 2nd done too but it took so fucking long just to type this 1st round that I don't have the strength to start a whole other one. Let me know what you think about what I have so far and I'll get the round 2 to you either tomorow or within the next couple of days.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
The Gin Soaked Sherpa speaks, on the draft of course
Here at the big and the brown, we love all things sports, fake or real. With that in mind we have no problem moving aside for a moment when someone of fantastic knowledge of a topic wants to put their two cents in.
This is Tioga, the Sherpa of Camping, and his vast understanding of the NFL draft, which is matched only by his hatred of dallascowboys.com "writer," Micky Spagnola. If Big is a draft dork, Tioga is his supervisor at kinko's.
"What have we learned kids?"
Having the Cowboys as your favorite team with Jerry Jones running things is like dating a bi-polar chick; all the highs and lows will leave you a drained emotional wreck, but hopefully the sex will be worth it.
First point in case: "Trade, Trade, Trade, Trade, Trade!" - (w/ thong song beat).
I'm on record as saying that I support making a trade when it enhances value; for example, moving up to get CB Mike Jenkins was smart. Moving down to get Julius Jones and Buffalo's 1st next year seemed brilliant at the time; even the deal with Cleveland last year seemed genius until they blew up. But what I really hate is the trade down only to trade back up that seems to always happen; it really reduces if not negates the value gained by trading down. It happened last year when we traded back into the 1st to get LB Anthony Spencer, and this year for CB Orlando Scandrick after moving outta the 3rd and passing on "Z" WR's Manningham and Caldwell, then moving down a couple times in the 4th passing on CB King. We did add picks for next year by trading down; but then in his press confrence immediately after the draft, Jerry stated that the extra picks next year would allow him to maneuver more freely. In other words, next year expect more of the same.
But it doesn't just stop at picks traded; this year he traded players whom were either current, former, or potential starters. With little depth at NT he shipped Ferguson for a 6th rounder. And what did we get with that pick?; not Iowa State NT Ahtyba Rubin; but instead another LB, this one a small college DE who'll have to make the transition and then beat out four 1st round picks, one 2nd, a 4th, and a former Pro Bowler in order to play. We also decided to take our starting ILB and #2 TE that we spent a 2nd on just two years ago and ship them off for a 4th rounder; with that pick, we traded down a couple times and decided to take a #3 RB whom is solid but buried behind a Pro Bowler and a 1st round pick. While the three guys we traded will most likely play alot if not start for Miami this year; the only way we'll hear from our guys is if they happen to accompany Pacman to the Platinum Club. The icing on the cake is that we turned around and spent a 2nd on another TE to replace the backup TE we got a 4th for; perhaps Jerry heard the term addition by subtraction and decided to put it to use.
In a sense it reminds me of how all the psycho girls I've known/dated are always changing/trading/moving things in their life; changing their hair color/style, trading jobs/majors, and moving on from guy to guy with the occasional girl thrown in.
Another way that Jerry's Cowboys remind me of the emotionally and mentally challenged people of the feminine gender, is that they'll make some questionable decisions. Much like a girl who ignores her bills in favor of buying yet another pair of shoes, Jones will ignore the WR and DL deficiencies in his roster for yet another LB. And then when later finally becomes the present; much like the girl who cries for her dad or boyfriend to come help her with the problem she created; Jones will go and spend big $ on a free agent stop gap.
Thanks for the letting me get that outta the way. Here are some mild draft observations for you here:
In the third we traded down and passed on WR Mario Manningham who had 1st round talent but a 4th round personality; the Giants got him and I hope we don't get it rubbed in our face like Moss did. Also in the third we passed on WR Andre Caldwell, a player who was compared to Hines Ward. He would have been almost just like Glenn in that he has speed to compliment Owens and Witten, and he's a gamer who'll do whatever is asked to win.
In the 4th we passed on CB Justin King who is a great athlete, but needs some more refinement. In college he was their best athlete at CB and he even played WR. If we drafted an athlete CB in the 5th that needs refinement, why not get a better athlete in the 4th who can take some snaps on offense and even help the return game.
This year there were several late round Defensive Linemen who fit the 3-4 Dallas runs; unfortunately we didn't draft any of them.
NT Red Bryant - 4th rd @ 121 to Sea
DE Kenny Iwobema - 4th rd @ 116 to Arz
DE Letroy Guion - 5th rd @ 152 to Min
DE DeMario Pressley - 5th rd @ 144 to NO
NT Frank Okam - 5th rd @ 151 to Hou
NT Ahtyba Rubin - 6th rd @ 190 Cle
DE Lionel Dotson - 7th rd @ 245 Mia
However, we did at least pick up DE Marcus Dixon outta Hampton as a free agent. He's 6'4 292 lbs but you should read the bio on this guy though. His senior year in high school was accused of rape by his 15 year old girlfriend and was found guilty of molestation and statutory rape; they sentenced him to 10 years. The supreme court freed him a year later because it was deemed consensual and he went on to go play college football. Wow!
This is Tioga, the Sherpa of Camping, and his vast understanding of the NFL draft, which is matched only by his hatred of dallascowboys.com "writer," Micky Spagnola. If Big is a draft dork, Tioga is his supervisor at kinko's.
"What have we learned kids?"
Having the Cowboys as your favorite team with Jerry Jones running things is like dating a bi-polar chick; all the highs and lows will leave you a drained emotional wreck, but hopefully the sex will be worth it.
First point in case: "Trade, Trade, Trade, Trade, Trade!" - (w/ thong song beat).
I'm on record as saying that I support making a trade when it enhances value; for example, moving up to get CB Mike Jenkins was smart. Moving down to get Julius Jones and Buffalo's 1st next year seemed brilliant at the time; even the deal with Cleveland last year seemed genius until they blew up. But what I really hate is the trade down only to trade back up that seems to always happen; it really reduces if not negates the value gained by trading down. It happened last year when we traded back into the 1st to get LB Anthony Spencer, and this year for CB Orlando Scandrick after moving outta the 3rd and passing on "Z" WR's Manningham and Caldwell, then moving down a couple times in the 4th passing on CB King. We did add picks for next year by trading down; but then in his press confrence immediately after the draft, Jerry stated that the extra picks next year would allow him to maneuver more freely. In other words, next year expect more of the same.
But it doesn't just stop at picks traded; this year he traded players whom were either current, former, or potential starters. With little depth at NT he shipped Ferguson for a 6th rounder. And what did we get with that pick?; not Iowa State NT Ahtyba Rubin; but instead another LB, this one a small college DE who'll have to make the transition and then beat out four 1st round picks, one 2nd, a 4th, and a former Pro Bowler in order to play. We also decided to take our starting ILB and #2 TE that we spent a 2nd on just two years ago and ship them off for a 4th rounder; with that pick, we traded down a couple times and decided to take a #3 RB whom is solid but buried behind a Pro Bowler and a 1st round pick. While the three guys we traded will most likely play alot if not start for Miami this year; the only way we'll hear from our guys is if they happen to accompany Pacman to the Platinum Club. The icing on the cake is that we turned around and spent a 2nd on another TE to replace the backup TE we got a 4th for; perhaps Jerry heard the term addition by subtraction and decided to put it to use.
In a sense it reminds me of how all the psycho girls I've known/dated are always changing/trading/moving things in their life; changing their hair color/style, trading jobs/majors, and moving on from guy to guy with the occasional girl thrown in.
Another way that Jerry's Cowboys remind me of the emotionally and mentally challenged people of the feminine gender, is that they'll make some questionable decisions. Much like a girl who ignores her bills in favor of buying yet another pair of shoes, Jones will ignore the WR and DL deficiencies in his roster for yet another LB. And then when later finally becomes the present; much like the girl who cries for her dad or boyfriend to come help her with the problem she created; Jones will go and spend big $ on a free agent stop gap.
Thanks for the letting me get that outta the way. Here are some mild draft observations for you here:
In the third we traded down and passed on WR Mario Manningham who had 1st round talent but a 4th round personality; the Giants got him and I hope we don't get it rubbed in our face like Moss did. Also in the third we passed on WR Andre Caldwell, a player who was compared to Hines Ward. He would have been almost just like Glenn in that he has speed to compliment Owens and Witten, and he's a gamer who'll do whatever is asked to win.
In the 4th we passed on CB Justin King who is a great athlete, but needs some more refinement. In college he was their best athlete at CB and he even played WR. If we drafted an athlete CB in the 5th that needs refinement, why not get a better athlete in the 4th who can take some snaps on offense and even help the return game.
This year there were several late round Defensive Linemen who fit the 3-4 Dallas runs; unfortunately we didn't draft any of them.
NT Red Bryant - 4th rd @ 121 to Sea
DE Kenny Iwobema - 4th rd @ 116 to Arz
DE Letroy Guion - 5th rd @ 152 to Min
DE DeMario Pressley - 5th rd @ 144 to NO
NT Frank Okam - 5th rd @ 151 to Hou
NT Ahtyba Rubin - 6th rd @ 190 Cle
DE Lionel Dotson - 7th rd @ 245 Mia
However, we did at least pick up DE Marcus Dixon outta Hampton as a free agent. He's 6'4 292 lbs but you should read the bio on this guy though. His senior year in high school was accused of rape by his 15 year old girlfriend and was found guilty of molestation and statutory rape; they sentenced him to 10 years. The supreme court freed him a year later because it was deemed consensual and he went on to go play college football. Wow!
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Drafting Guru and Sherpa of Camp Sites
Here at the big and the brown, we love all things sports, fake or real. With that in mind we have no problem moving aside for a moment when someone of fantastic knowledge of a topic wants to put their two cents in.
I would like to introduce you to Tioga, the Sherpa of Camping, and his vast understanding of the NFL draft, which is matched only by his hatred of dallascowboys.com "writer," Micky Spagnola. If Big is a draft dork, Tioga is his supervisor at kinko's. Its a tad bit long, but its good stuff. If you ever wanted to know about what the Dallas Cowboys should/might do at the draft, read this. Any questions can be asked in the comments.
It's draft time again, actually only little more than a week away. With free agency ebbing and pro days mostly completed the draft boards are for the most part set. The 2008 draft is an unspectacular one this year as there is a lack of star power for teams needing an immediate impact; and in fact, the only thing that saves it this year is that there's some depth at most positions which could pan out in a couple of years. This lack of star power has most of the teams wanting to trade down in order to not have to overpay for average talent, and pick up extra picks in the process. The problem is that outside of only a few teams looking to pick up a certain need player, most teams wont or can't move up. All that said, the top half of this draft looks to be very fluid and dynamic, which in turn will affect what Dallas does. So lets start off with looking at what Dallas needs to come away with at some point.
A quick glance at the Cowboys roster points out that they need CB help/depth, WR depth, and a new RB; plus depth and development along the DL.
At Corner Back, outside of starters Newman and and Henry there is no depth, not to mention quality. With both being 30 and plagued by injuries last year the future and present are needed now; esp. considering all of the teams using 3 and 4 receiver sets. - a solid #1 or #2 player is needed.
No less important is the WR position this year. T.O. will be 35 and is in the last year of his contract but at least still playing at a high level for now in a blue star helmet. The same can't be said for his fellow starter, Glenn. The two were supposed to form an unstoppable duo last year, but Glenn went down with a knee injury that doesn't look promising for this year either. Crayton stepped in admirably last season but is best suited for a #3 role. - a vertical #1 or #2 receiver is needed to replace Glenn who can't be counted on.
The good news is that Barber will now be the starter; the bad news is that Jones cried all the way to Seattle and his replacement isn't on the roster. - a speedier RB to compliment Barber's physical style is desired, but one with the ability to possibly fill in should MB3's style lend to injury.
Defensive Line is a punishing physical position, esp. in a 3-4 where the constant pounding takes it's toll. (much like Big's feet or Brown's hand/schlong) Factor in that it's only Tank and Ratliff at the NT after trading Ferguson; plus at DE Spears is on his way out and Canty will be a free agent. Though not as pressing of a need, the DL is in need of some fresh talent.
So now that the obvious is outta the way, I'll go to the other obvious point; that being Dallas' draft position.
Most of you should know, but I'll start with their two first being #22 and #28. In any other draft not so bad, but this year those two numbers mean that you're paying 1st round money to 2nd round talent and the #22 pick gets uglier by the day.
In the 2nd we have the #61 pick leaving us the option of nabbing a player sliding in the round or reaching for a player rated in the top of the 3rd.
The 3rd round sees the Cowboys picking at the #92 spot; pretty much their last chance at grabbing a contributor for this year.
In the 4th it's #126, #163 in the 5th, with the first pick in the 6th at #167 for now, and finally #235 in the 7th.
And now finally with the needs and draft spot's addressed, I can finally get to the good stuff and the reason that most of you are still reading; that being the players and which ones that Dallas will get.
The first position I'll list here is CB seeing as how one of these guys will most likely being our 1st round pick. Although the position is scattered with some talent; there are question marks surrounding each prospect making each a risk/reward player at this point. The players rated to be 1st or 2nd rounders this year are highly overrated and will produce more bust than hits this year, with the players looking more like #2 or #3 talents. Another thing to take into consideration is the style of defense teams play; some are zone coverage like Tampa Bay and Indy while others run man coverage like Dallas and Baltimore. Most of the CB's this year figure to be stronger in zone due to less importance placed upon elite athleticism by the zone teams.
1st round:
1)- Leodis McKelvin 5'10 190 4.39- Troy St.- (man)
2)- Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie 6'1 184 4.33- Tenn. St.- (man)
3)- Mike Jenkins 5'10 197 4.44- South Florida- (man)
4)- Aqib Talib 6'0 202 4.49- Kansas- (zone)
2nd round:
5)- Patrick Lee 6'0 194 4.41- Auburn- (balanced)
6)- Brandon Flowers 5'10 189 4.57- Virginia Tech- (zone)
3rd round:
7)- Justin King 5'11 192 4.36- Penn St.- (man)
8)- Tyvon Branch 6'0 204 4.33- Connecticut- (zone)
9)- Charles Godfrey 6'0 207 4.47- Iowa- (balanced)
10)- Tracey Porter 5'11 188 4.47- Indiana- (man)
11)- Antoine Cason 6'0 191 4.54- Arizona- (zone)
The rest of the CB's from here forth either are 5'9 and nickle at best corners, or they're slow zone CB's. Therefor that leaves one of the above mentioned players being the Cowboys guy for years to come. The biggest problem with that is that several have character issues, physical limitations, and/or production concerns. McKelvin is the only solid enough to draft at #22 but he'll be gone by then. The other 2 man corners may not be available at #28, but shouldn't be drafted at #22 without some reservation. In the 3rd, there is some intrigue as to whether the man CB's King and Porter will last to the #92 pick but if either do it would be in the Cowboys' best interest to nab them if they do.
Another interest of concern is the WR position; but much like the CB's, they leave much more to be desired. Even though there are a good enough number of talented players at the position that quality can be found in the 4th and 5th rounds; the position lacks any one player featuring star qualities. Instead it's loaded with big, slow, possession type receivers as well as, quick speedy players who are short, skinny, or both. Some of the top tier players that seem to blend size with speed being a little of both exceptional at neither, have character and/or production concerns.
1st round:
1)- Limas Sweed 6'4 215 4.54- Texas- injury prone and lacks production
2)- Devin Thomas 6'2 216 4.42- Mich. St.- speed guy but 1 year wonder?
3)- Malcolm Kelly 6'4 224 6.6- Oklahoma- slow and immature
1st/2nd rounders:
4)- James Hardy 6'5 217 4.54- Indiana- size w/ speed, but immature
5)- Mario Manningham 6'0 181 4.56- Michigan- gamer but ? on character
6)- DeShaun Jackson 5'10 169 4.39- Cal- fast but tiny w/ ? on character
7)- Early Doucet 6'0 209 4.56- LSU- still hasn't become what he's billed
2nd/3rd rounders:
8)- Andre Caldwell 6'0 204 4.39- Florida- athletic gamer, underrated
9)- Donnie Avery 5'11 192 4.46- Houston- speedy but raw still
The rest of the WR class looks like #3 guys which we already have in Crayton. Therefor one of the above mentioned guys should be drafted early on and hopefully won't require the 3 years it seems to take for the position to develop. The first three listed probably won't last 'til the #28 pick, yet each has concerns regarding picking them at #22. The next four would be a reach picking them at #28, but don't figure to be available at #61. And the last 2 should be around at #61 but not at #92.
And that leads us into the RB position. With an established starter a complimentary guy will be targeted with a focus on speed. The good news in this draft is that it's loaded with RB talent so good value can be found later than normal at the position.
1st rounder:
1)- Felix Jones 5'10 207 4.51- Arkansas- speed guy but 1st on backup?
2nd/3rd rounder:
2)- Jamal Charles 5'11 200 4.41- Texas- speedy and productive
3)- Chris Johnson 5'11 197 4.29- E. Car.- fast but small
3rd/5th rounder:
4)- Steve Slaton 5'9 197 4.49- W. Vir.- productive but small w/ ? character
It's been trendy on most mocks for the cowboys to take Jones due to the Arkansas connection but to waste a high pick on a guy who'll only get 10-15 snaps a game is a luxury. I think the cowboys could find a similar player late in the 2nd in Charles and to a lesser extent Johnson who rate as early 3rd type players but would be mid 2nds in most RB classes.
And now last but not least, the Defensive Line. It's not a glaring need but is one that's been ignored for some time now.
3rd/4th rounders:
1)- Pat Sims 6'2 310 5.14- Auburn- NT
2)- Ahtyba Rubin 6'3 315 5.27- Iowa St.- NT
4th/5th rounders:
3)- Red Bryant 6'4 318 5.07- Texas A&M- NT
4)- Frank Okam 6'4 347 5.36- Texas- NT
5)- Kenny Iwebema 6'4 274 4.91- Iowa- DE
6)- Kendall Langford 6'5 287 4.99- Hampton- DE
Outside of the above mentioned six players there are 19 other DL prospects that could be had later and developed. There is no guarantee that the above players will be available at #126 but if one is it would do well to nab him; especially since the DT class this year is poor after the top 2. Even though the DE class is strong this year, with more teams going the way of the 3-4, it will be harder to find quality "5" technique players.
Alright, now that the players have been listed, it's time to do my Dallas 5 round mock draft. I can guarantee that at least 2 if not 4 of the above mentioned players will be wearing the blue star next year I'm about to go out on a limb and predict the 5 that I think will; here goes.
1st round, pick #22- CB Mike Jenkins- poor character concerns and poor agility and change of direction drill #'s at the combine scared off enough teams hungry for CB help, dropping him to here. Jerry rolls the dice on a player that at the end of last season was the top rated CB.
1st round, pick #28- (trade down with a team looking to move up and grab the #2 QB, Atlanta for example whom has 3 2nd rounders and 2 3rds) - If not then WR Malcolm Kelly who's pedestrian 40 followed up with his temper tamper blame pointing show afterwards persuade teams to look past him in the 1st; not Dallas though. Not exactly a good fit, Jones thinks he's a great talent.
2nd round, pick ?- (if the above trade happens then look for either a WR like Manningham, Caldwell, or Doucet here; all of whom are a better fit for the "Z" position vacated by Glenn, or a CB like Lee or King to help hedge the Jenkins and Pacman picks.- an interesting side note is that Atlanta can offer 2 of their 3 2nds and Dallas can wind up with both of these positions with those picks.
2nd round, pick #61- RB Jamal Charles. The perfect lightning to Barber's thunder, who would also be able to carry an expanded role for a short time should Barber get dinged.
3rd round, pick #92- CB Charles Godfrey. Barring the trade changing this picks' need, Dallas should draft another CB here to hedge their earlier pick whom has a boom or bust grade. Godfrey is raw but has speed and athleticism, as well as experience at Safety, which could come in handy should Dallas hit on the other CB.
4th round, pick #126- NT Frank Okam. All the other mid round grade NT's are off the board except for Okam who falls to the end of the 4th due to his questioned work ethic coming out of the UT country club. But alas, money and a dickhead coach can light a fire under most fat asses. He has the potential to be a monster on the nose.
5th round, pick #163- DE Kendall Langford. Playing at tiny Hampton plus his lack of development at this point push Langford into the 5th. Dallas is intrigued by his natural size and strength that is needed to battle OT's in a 3-4 defense. 2 or maybe 3 years from now this guy will show up outta nowhere and start for the next 6 years for cheap on the end.
Well, hope you enjoyed and thank you for reading this far. One side note here too; if you're reading this Micky Spagnola, go fuck yourself!
-Sherp
I would like to introduce you to Tioga, the Sherpa of Camping, and his vast understanding of the NFL draft, which is matched only by his hatred of dallascowboys.com "writer," Micky Spagnola. If Big is a draft dork, Tioga is his supervisor at kinko's. Its a tad bit long, but its good stuff. If you ever wanted to know about what the Dallas Cowboys should/might do at the draft, read this. Any questions can be asked in the comments.
It's draft time again, actually only little more than a week away. With free agency ebbing and pro days mostly completed the draft boards are for the most part set. The 2008 draft is an unspectacular one this year as there is a lack of star power for teams needing an immediate impact; and in fact, the only thing that saves it this year is that there's some depth at most positions which could pan out in a couple of years. This lack of star power has most of the teams wanting to trade down in order to not have to overpay for average talent, and pick up extra picks in the process. The problem is that outside of only a few teams looking to pick up a certain need player, most teams wont or can't move up. All that said, the top half of this draft looks to be very fluid and dynamic, which in turn will affect what Dallas does. So lets start off with looking at what Dallas needs to come away with at some point.
A quick glance at the Cowboys roster points out that they need CB help/depth, WR depth, and a new RB; plus depth and development along the DL.
At Corner Back, outside of starters Newman and and Henry there is no depth, not to mention quality. With both being 30 and plagued by injuries last year the future and present are needed now; esp. considering all of the teams using 3 and 4 receiver sets. - a solid #1 or #2 player is needed.
No less important is the WR position this year. T.O. will be 35 and is in the last year of his contract but at least still playing at a high level for now in a blue star helmet. The same can't be said for his fellow starter, Glenn. The two were supposed to form an unstoppable duo last year, but Glenn went down with a knee injury that doesn't look promising for this year either. Crayton stepped in admirably last season but is best suited for a #3 role. - a vertical #1 or #2 receiver is needed to replace Glenn who can't be counted on.
The good news is that Barber will now be the starter; the bad news is that Jones cried all the way to Seattle and his replacement isn't on the roster. - a speedier RB to compliment Barber's physical style is desired, but one with the ability to possibly fill in should MB3's style lend to injury.
Defensive Line is a punishing physical position, esp. in a 3-4 where the constant pounding takes it's toll. (much like Big's feet or Brown's hand/schlong) Factor in that it's only Tank and Ratliff at the NT after trading Ferguson; plus at DE Spears is on his way out and Canty will be a free agent. Though not as pressing of a need, the DL is in need of some fresh talent.
So now that the obvious is outta the way, I'll go to the other obvious point; that being Dallas' draft position.
Most of you should know, but I'll start with their two first being #22 and #28. In any other draft not so bad, but this year those two numbers mean that you're paying 1st round money to 2nd round talent and the #22 pick gets uglier by the day.
In the 2nd we have the #61 pick leaving us the option of nabbing a player sliding in the round or reaching for a player rated in the top of the 3rd.
The 3rd round sees the Cowboys picking at the #92 spot; pretty much their last chance at grabbing a contributor for this year.
In the 4th it's #126, #163 in the 5th, with the first pick in the 6th at #167 for now, and finally #235 in the 7th.
And now finally with the needs and draft spot's addressed, I can finally get to the good stuff and the reason that most of you are still reading; that being the players and which ones that Dallas will get.
The first position I'll list here is CB seeing as how one of these guys will most likely being our 1st round pick. Although the position is scattered with some talent; there are question marks surrounding each prospect making each a risk/reward player at this point. The players rated to be 1st or 2nd rounders this year are highly overrated and will produce more bust than hits this year, with the players looking more like #2 or #3 talents. Another thing to take into consideration is the style of defense teams play; some are zone coverage like Tampa Bay and Indy while others run man coverage like Dallas and Baltimore. Most of the CB's this year figure to be stronger in zone due to less importance placed upon elite athleticism by the zone teams.
1st round:
1)- Leodis McKelvin 5'10 190 4.39- Troy St.- (man)
2)- Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie 6'1 184 4.33- Tenn. St.- (man)
3)- Mike Jenkins 5'10 197 4.44- South Florida- (man)
4)- Aqib Talib 6'0 202 4.49- Kansas- (zone)
2nd round:
5)- Patrick Lee 6'0 194 4.41- Auburn- (balanced)
6)- Brandon Flowers 5'10 189 4.57- Virginia Tech- (zone)
3rd round:
7)- Justin King 5'11 192 4.36- Penn St.- (man)
8)- Tyvon Branch 6'0 204 4.33- Connecticut- (zone)
9)- Charles Godfrey 6'0 207 4.47- Iowa- (balanced)
10)- Tracey Porter 5'11 188 4.47- Indiana- (man)
11)- Antoine Cason 6'0 191 4.54- Arizona- (zone)
The rest of the CB's from here forth either are 5'9 and nickle at best corners, or they're slow zone CB's. Therefor that leaves one of the above mentioned players being the Cowboys guy for years to come. The biggest problem with that is that several have character issues, physical limitations, and/or production concerns. McKelvin is the only solid enough to draft at #22 but he'll be gone by then. The other 2 man corners may not be available at #28, but shouldn't be drafted at #22 without some reservation. In the 3rd, there is some intrigue as to whether the man CB's King and Porter will last to the #92 pick but if either do it would be in the Cowboys' best interest to nab them if they do.
Another interest of concern is the WR position; but much like the CB's, they leave much more to be desired. Even though there are a good enough number of talented players at the position that quality can be found in the 4th and 5th rounds; the position lacks any one player featuring star qualities. Instead it's loaded with big, slow, possession type receivers as well as, quick speedy players who are short, skinny, or both. Some of the top tier players that seem to blend size with speed being a little of both exceptional at neither, have character and/or production concerns.
1st round:
1)- Limas Sweed 6'4 215 4.54- Texas- injury prone and lacks production
2)- Devin Thomas 6'2 216 4.42- Mich. St.- speed guy but 1 year wonder?
3)- Malcolm Kelly 6'4 224 6.6- Oklahoma- slow and immature
1st/2nd rounders:
4)- James Hardy 6'5 217 4.54- Indiana- size w/ speed, but immature
5)- Mario Manningham 6'0 181 4.56- Michigan- gamer but ? on character
6)- DeShaun Jackson 5'10 169 4.39- Cal- fast but tiny w/ ? on character
7)- Early Doucet 6'0 209 4.56- LSU- still hasn't become what he's billed
2nd/3rd rounders:
8)- Andre Caldwell 6'0 204 4.39- Florida- athletic gamer, underrated
9)- Donnie Avery 5'11 192 4.46- Houston- speedy but raw still
The rest of the WR class looks like #3 guys which we already have in Crayton. Therefor one of the above mentioned guys should be drafted early on and hopefully won't require the 3 years it seems to take for the position to develop. The first three listed probably won't last 'til the #28 pick, yet each has concerns regarding picking them at #22. The next four would be a reach picking them at #28, but don't figure to be available at #61. And the last 2 should be around at #61 but not at #92.
And that leads us into the RB position. With an established starter a complimentary guy will be targeted with a focus on speed. The good news in this draft is that it's loaded with RB talent so good value can be found later than normal at the position.
1st rounder:
1)- Felix Jones 5'10 207 4.51- Arkansas- speed guy but 1st on backup?
2nd/3rd rounder:
2)- Jamal Charles 5'11 200 4.41- Texas- speedy and productive
3)- Chris Johnson 5'11 197 4.29- E. Car.- fast but small
3rd/5th rounder:
4)- Steve Slaton 5'9 197 4.49- W. Vir.- productive but small w/ ? character
It's been trendy on most mocks for the cowboys to take Jones due to the Arkansas connection but to waste a high pick on a guy who'll only get 10-15 snaps a game is a luxury. I think the cowboys could find a similar player late in the 2nd in Charles and to a lesser extent Johnson who rate as early 3rd type players but would be mid 2nds in most RB classes.
And now last but not least, the Defensive Line. It's not a glaring need but is one that's been ignored for some time now.
3rd/4th rounders:
1)- Pat Sims 6'2 310 5.14- Auburn- NT
2)- Ahtyba Rubin 6'3 315 5.27- Iowa St.- NT
4th/5th rounders:
3)- Red Bryant 6'4 318 5.07- Texas A&M- NT
4)- Frank Okam 6'4 347 5.36- Texas- NT
5)- Kenny Iwebema 6'4 274 4.91- Iowa- DE
6)- Kendall Langford 6'5 287 4.99- Hampton- DE
Outside of the above mentioned six players there are 19 other DL prospects that could be had later and developed. There is no guarantee that the above players will be available at #126 but if one is it would do well to nab him; especially since the DT class this year is poor after the top 2. Even though the DE class is strong this year, with more teams going the way of the 3-4, it will be harder to find quality "5" technique players.
Alright, now that the players have been listed, it's time to do my Dallas 5 round mock draft. I can guarantee that at least 2 if not 4 of the above mentioned players will be wearing the blue star next year I'm about to go out on a limb and predict the 5 that I think will; here goes.
1st round, pick #22- CB Mike Jenkins- poor character concerns and poor agility and change of direction drill #'s at the combine scared off enough teams hungry for CB help, dropping him to here. Jerry rolls the dice on a player that at the end of last season was the top rated CB.
1st round, pick #28- (trade down with a team looking to move up and grab the #2 QB, Atlanta for example whom has 3 2nd rounders and 2 3rds) - If not then WR Malcolm Kelly who's pedestrian 40 followed up with his temper tamper blame pointing show afterwards persuade teams to look past him in the 1st; not Dallas though. Not exactly a good fit, Jones thinks he's a great talent.
2nd round, pick ?- (if the above trade happens then look for either a WR like Manningham, Caldwell, or Doucet here; all of whom are a better fit for the "Z" position vacated by Glenn, or a CB like Lee or King to help hedge the Jenkins and Pacman picks.- an interesting side note is that Atlanta can offer 2 of their 3 2nds and Dallas can wind up with both of these positions with those picks.
2nd round, pick #61- RB Jamal Charles. The perfect lightning to Barber's thunder, who would also be able to carry an expanded role for a short time should Barber get dinged.
3rd round, pick #92- CB Charles Godfrey. Barring the trade changing this picks' need, Dallas should draft another CB here to hedge their earlier pick whom has a boom or bust grade. Godfrey is raw but has speed and athleticism, as well as experience at Safety, which could come in handy should Dallas hit on the other CB.
4th round, pick #126- NT Frank Okam. All the other mid round grade NT's are off the board except for Okam who falls to the end of the 4th due to his questioned work ethic coming out of the UT country club. But alas, money and a dickhead coach can light a fire under most fat asses. He has the potential to be a monster on the nose.
5th round, pick #163- DE Kendall Langford. Playing at tiny Hampton plus his lack of development at this point push Langford into the 5th. Dallas is intrigued by his natural size and strength that is needed to battle OT's in a 3-4 defense. 2 or maybe 3 years from now this guy will show up outta nowhere and start for the next 6 years for cheap on the end.
Well, hope you enjoyed and thank you for reading this far. One side note here too; if you're reading this Micky Spagnola, go fuck yourself!
-Sherp
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