Round 1 Round 2 Round 3 Round 4 Round 5 Round 6 Round 7
5/132: STL-Michael Hoomanawanui-TE-Illinois: Not a receiving threat, but is an exceptional blocker. Could become the next Brandon Manumaleuna, which is nothing to scoff at in round 5
GRADE: B
5/133: SEA-Kam Chancellor-S-VT: Huge safety (6'3" 231). Will be solid in run support but struggle in the coverage. Could be a steal if he is used only as a box safety or switches to linebacker.
GRADE: A-
5/134: PHI-Ricky Sapp-DE-Clemson: Could be the best out of all three DE's the Eagles drafted. Great value. An explosive pass rusher whose only real concern is knee trouble. If he can avoid injury at the next level, he could be a star.
GRADE: A
5/135: ATL-Dominique Franks-CB-OU: Pretty good pick, but not great. Franks can contribute in the return game, and projects to be a decent nickel corner or low-end #2 CB.
GRADE: B
5/136: KC-Kendrick Lewis-S-Ole Miss: Was fairly productive in college, but lacks the size and athleticism to be much more than a backup safety/special teamer in the NFL.
GRADE: C
5/137: DEN-Perrish Cox-CB-OkSt: Cox fills the Broncos need for corner depth and gives them a potentially dynamic return man as well. Terrific pick, as Cox easily could have been selected 2 or 3 rounds earlier.
GRADE: A
5/138: OAK-Walter McFadden-CB-Auburn: Fills a need, but I think more talented corners came off the board later.
GRADE: C+
5/139: NYJ-John Conner-FB-Kentucky: One of, if not the best blocking FBs in the draft. This pick will be underrated by some, but is very important. Shonn Greene needs a fullback to run behind, and Tony Richardson won't be around forever.
GRADE: B+
5/140: BUF-Edward Wang-OT-VT: Wang, a converted TE, is an athletic tackle who could potentially move to the left tackle position. Can't believe it took the Bills so long to upgrade the O-line.
GRADE: B+
5/141: CHI-Josh Moore-CB-K-State: A reach. I didn't have Moore getting drafted at all, and he doesn't really fit the Bears tendency to draft bigger, more physical corners.
GRADE: C
5/142: KC-Cameron Sheffield-OLB-Troy: Showed a knack for getting to the QB in college (12 sacks in the last 2 years), but ran very poorly at the combine (4.90 at 257 pounds). Good value in round 5 though.
GRADE: B+
5/143: JAX-Larry Hart-OLB-C.Ark: Undersized, but had 21.5 sacks in the last 2 years. Played in the lower college ranks, so competition concerns abound.
GRADE: C-
5/144: HOU-Sherrick McManis-CB-NW: A lingering quad injury pushed his stock down to the 7th round area, but the Texans still decided to pull the trigger on him here. Filling a need at corner is good, but they should have done it with a better corner.
GRADE: C-
5/145: MIA-Nolan Carroll-CB-Maryland: The Dolphins loaded up at corner last year, didn't have a need for it here, and reached big time to select Carroll. I would have went with an insurance RB for when Ronnie Brown gets injured and to replace Ricky Williams in a year or two.
GRADE: D+
5/146: SD-Cam Thomas-NT-UNC: Thomas was a second round prospect who put in a solid senior season, Senior Bowl, and combine performance, and he fills a huge need in the wake of the Jamal Williams release.
GRADE: A+
5/147: NYG-Mitch Petrus-OG-ARK: The Giants O-line wasn't as solid as it had been in recent years, and Mich Petrus is a good value here.
GRADE: B+
5/148: TEN-Robert Johnson-S-Utah: Johnson struggled a bit with injuries early in his career, but showed what he is capable when healthy as a senior, registering 6 interceptions. The Titans really struggled against the pass last year, so any DB additions are welcomed.
GRADE: A-
5/149: STL-Hall Davis-DE-ULL: Pretty good DE product. Good size at 6'4" 271, so could end up being a solid run stuffer.
GRADE: B-
5/150: NE-Zoltan Mesko-P-MICH: The Pats haven't had a consistently good punter in years. Mesko has the best leg in the class by far, and should be able to combat the winds of Gilette Stadium.
GRADE: B+
5/151: PIT-Chris Scott-OG/OT-TENN: A big lineman who will probably kick inside to guard for the Steelers. Fills a need and will provide solid depth.
GRADE: B+
5/152: CIN-Otis Hudson-OT/OG-E.Ill: Good athlete, but is very raw. I have my doubts if he will pan out though.
GRADE: C
5/153: JAX-Austen Lane-DE-Murray St: Has good size, and was very productive at Murray State last year, registering 11 sacks. Still, that was at Murray State, against players who for the most part couldn't even think of sniffing the NFL. I think he projects as more of a run stopper in the NFL, which isn't what the Jags need.
GRADE: C-
5/154: GB-Andrew Quarless-TE-Penn St: Quarless is a very talented tight end, but hardly ever gives 100%. He's not a hard worker, but his talent is too good to pass up here.
GRADE: B
5/155: ARI-John Skelton-QB-Fordham: Skelton has a cannon for an arm, and has decent accuracy to boot. A project, but could end up as a starter if given the chance to develop.
GRADE: A-
5/156: BAL-David Reed-WR-Utah: Could eventually fill in as a slot receiver, which the Ravens lack.
GRADE: B-
5/157: BAL-Arthur Jones-DE/DT-SYR: Good height and build for a 3-4 DE. No denying his talent, but effort and injury concerns knocked him down a few rounds.
GRADE: B+
5/158: NO-Matt Tennant-C-BC: One of the top few centers in the draft. Tennant should take over some spot on the line within the next couple of years, and play very successfully when he does.
GRADE: A-
5/159: PHI-Riley Cooper-WR-Florida: Nice size and athletic ability for a receiver, but has yet to put it all together. That could be because the QB at Florida couldn't throw a spiral, or a very accurate pass outside the numbers or more than 10 yards down the field. We'll see if it was the QB or Cooper himself to blame for his perceived lack of solid hands.
GRADE: B+
5/160: CLE-Larry Asante-S-NEB: Played very well, both against the run and pass, as a senior. A little slow at the Combine, which dropped his stock, but his tape doesn't lie. Very good value.
GRADE: B
5/161: MIN-Chris Degeare-OG/OT-WAKE: A big guard at 325 pounds, but he doesn't look very skilled as a blocker on film. Wasted pick in my eyes, as I thought there were several better offensive linemen at this point.
GRADE: D+
5/162: IND-Brody Eldridge-TE/OL-OU: I like this pick. Eldridge is the best blocking TE in the 2010 class. At only 260ish pounds, he started multiple games on the line throughout his OU career, starting games at center and guard in addition to tight end. Could redshirt for a few years to bulk up and play an interior lineman position, or stay as a blocking TE.
GRADE: B
5/163: MIA-Reshad Jones-S-Georgia: Fills a need, was selected 2+ rounds later than he should have been, productive in college. Yup, Parcells gets an A for this one.
GRADE: A
5/164: PIT-Crezdon Butler-CB-Clemson: The Steelers needed a corner or two in this draft, and fill the need when selecting Butler. Good size and athleticism, but isn't a very experienced Cover 2 corner.
GRADE: B
5/165: ATL-Kerry Meier-WR-Kansas: A big possession receiver with limited athletic ability. Meier knows how to get open though and has solid hands, so he could pan out.
GRADE: C+
5/166: PIT-Stevenson Sylvester-ILB-UTAH: Not a good fit at any LB position in the 3-4, so he'll have to make contributions on special teams.
GRADE: C
5/167: MIN-Nathan Triplett-ILB-Minnesota: Not a great prospect, even in round 5. Has the size to contribute on run downs though if he makes the team.
GRADE: C
5/168: SD-Jonathan Crompton-QB-TENN: The Chargers needed another developmental QB after trading Charlie Whitehurst this offseason. Has the tools to be a future starter, and played exceptionally well in 9 (or so) games his senior season. Trouble is, after being highly recruited out of high school, the last 9 (or so) games of his senior season were the only really good games of his college career.
GRADE: B-
5/169: GB-Marshall Newhouse-OG-TCU: The Packers O-line needed some serious depth, and they grab a player I had a round 2 grade on here. Can play both guard positions, and possibly RT in the NFL. Love this pick to close out the 5th round.
GRADE: A+
Showing posts with label pick. Show all posts
Showing posts with label pick. Show all posts
Friday, April 30, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Pick by Pick Analysis and Grades-Round 4
Round 1 Round 2 Round 3 Round 4 Round 5 Round 6 Round 7
4/99: STL-Mardy Gilyard-WR-Cincinnati: Gilyard is a very talented receiver who has the ability to stretch the defense for Sam Bradford. The Rams needed to get additional weapons for their new franchise QB, and they succeed in doing so here.
GRADE: A-
4/100: MIN-Everson Griffen-DE-USC: Outstanding value pick by the Vikings here. Griffen is one of the most talented players in the entire draft, and was clearly the best overall prospect left. The Vikings grab a player with the 100th pick that was projected by some to go as high as 16th overall to the Titans. The Vikings didn't really need a DE at this juncture, but Griffen was too talented to pass up here, and the Vikings don't really have many needs, and could have gotten a major steal.
GRADE: A+
4/101: TB-Mike Williams-WR-SYR: Interesting pick. Williams is a first or second round prospect in terms of talent alone, but he quit on his team mid-season last year. Hopefully with a paycheck involved, and no school to be "burdened" by, Williams will be able to actually give a crap about his team. If he pans out, the Bucs could be set at WR for the next 10 years.
GRADE: B
4/102: HOU-Darryl Sharpton-ILB-Miami: Sharpton is a decent player, but he doesn't fill a need. I would have gone with a WR or safety at this juncture.
GRADE: B-
4/103: WAS-Perry Riley-OLB-LSU: If the 'Skins were still running a 4-3, this pick would have graded out about 2 letters higher, but Riley is a very poor fit for the 3-4. If the Redskins were looking for a pass rusher, they could have picked Thaddeus Gibson or Eric Norwood, or could have selected Phillip Dillard as an inside linebacker.
GRADE: D+
4/104: TEN-Alterraun Verner-CB-UCLA: Verner is a decent corner who really fills a need for the Titans. Solid pick.
GRADE: B
4/105: Travis Lindley-CB-Kentucky: The Eagles really needed a corner after trading Sheldon Brown, but Lindley's stock has plummeted this season after terrible play, and poor draft season performances.
GRADE: C+
4/106: OAK-Bruce Campbell-OT-Maryland: Great, great pick. Many had the Raiders selecting this workout warrior in the first round, but smartly (can't believe I typed that non-jokingly) they waited until a round or two after Campbell should have gone. He's very raw, but has shown enormous promise and potential. Could be their LT of the next decade after sitting for a year or two to work on technique.
GRADE: A+
4/107: BUF-Marcus Easley-WR-UCONN: A project, but has good size, speed, and decent hands. May take a while to develop into a solid WR, but its not like the Bills are going to be good for a few years anyway.
GRADE: B
4/108: OAK-Jacoby Ford-WR-Clemson: Another solid pick by Oakland. Ford fits the Raider wishlist of an athletic freak (4.27 40), but presents very good value here. Will eventually help at receiver, but will contribute greatly in the return game-both punt and kick-immediately.
GRADE: B+
4/109: CHI-Coorey Wooten-DE-NW: Was dominant before his knee surgery after his junior year (16.5 TFL, 10 sacks), and struggled a bit his senior year, in comparison. Still, he is great against the run, and being another year removed from knee surgery should help him regain his pass-rushing form.
GRADE: B+
4/110: SD-Darrell Stuckey-S-Kansas: Stuckey is a very good value here, and could push the incumbents in front of him. Special teams ace this year, starter the next.
GRADE: A-
4/111: SEA-Walter Thurmond-CB-ORE: Thurmond will help provide quality depth for the Seahawks struggling secondary, but he is extremely injury prone.
GRADE: B-
4/112: NYJ-Joe McKnight-RB-USC: Was supposed to be the "Next Reggie Bush" at USC, but never amounted to anything close to that type of production. If McKnight came from another school, I doubt he would have even be drafted. All-hype player, but he fills a need as a speed back.
GRADE: C+
4/113: NE-Aaron Hernandez-TE-Florida: The Patriots had made it a goal this offseason to surround Tom Brady with more weapons, and they continue to accomplish that goal here. I know they took Gronkowski earlier, but Hernandez is a very different type of TE. They will be able to use him in a number of ways, including H-back, traditional TE, slot receiver, out wide, fullback, and elsewhere.
GRADE: A
4/114: BAL-Dennis Pitta-TE-BYU: The Ravens' second TE pick makes less sense to me than the Patriots does, because I'm not sure either Pitta or Ed Dickson is as versatile as Aaron Hernandez, and therefore it will be harder to get both on the field to help as much as possible. Still, Pitta presented good value here, and provides insurance in case Dickson busts.
GRADE: B-
4/115: NYG-Phillip Dillard-ILB-NEB: More athletic than you would expect when watching him on film. Has a good nose for the football, and a typical Nebraska player's motor (excellent). Solid pick.
GRADE: B
4/116: PIT-Thaddeus Gibson-OLB-Ohio St: Good value, and a potentially solid pick as a 3-4 rush LB. Still, 2 rush LBs before a single corner is questionable in my opinion.
GRADE: B
4/117: ATL-Joseph Hawley-OG/C-UNLV: Fills a need at center, but there were better center prospects on the board.
GRADE: C+
4/118: HOU-Garrett Graham-TE-WISC: The Texans have had success with another receiving TE from Wisconsin, so they dip into that pool again. I think Graham could be a very productive TE who they can move around the field, but Owen Daniels already is that, and so is their 5th round pick from last year, James Casey.
GRADE: B
4/119: MIA-AJ Edds-ILB-Iowa: A tough and gritty player who played outside in college, but will have to kick inside for the Dolphins 3-4. Could be solid, but I see Edds as a much better 4-3 strongside LB than at any LB spot in a 3-4.
GRADE: C+
4/120: CIN-Geno Atkins-DT-Georgia: A physically gifted player (4.75 40 at 293 pounds, 34 BP reps) but definitely underachieved in college, and started only 3 games his senior year. Still, he showed what he is capable of at the Senior Bowl, making 1st round guard Mike Iupati look silly all week. Serious concerns about his effort and work ethic though.
GRADE: B+
4/121: PHI-Keenan Clayton-OLB-OU: An undersized (229 pounds) but speedy (4.57 40) converted safety, Clayton fills a need, but is questionable value here.
GRADE: C
4/122: PHI-Mike Kafka-QB-NW: The Eagles needed a developmental QB in case Kevin Kolb falters, and they get a solid one here. Kafka has really good intangibles, coupled with a solid arm and accuracy.
GRADE: B+
4/123: NO-Al Woods-DT-LSU: Was thought to be the heir to Glenn Dorsey at LSU, but never quite played up to his potential. Still, he is a very intriguing pick for the Saints, and could potentially form a dominant DT duo with Sedrick Ellis.
GRADE: A-
4/124: CAR-Eric Norwood-LB/DE-S. Carolina: Probably a bit undersized to play DE in the NFL, and is probably a better fit in the 3-4, but Norwood was far too good of a value to pass up here. GRADE:A-
4/125: PHI-Clay Harbor-TE/FB-Missouri State: Could be a key cog to the Eagles offense next year. Is skilled enough to be used in multiple different positions right away. What keeps him out of the "A" grade range is the fact that the Eagles still haven't addressed the O-line.
GRADE: B+
4/126: DAL-Akwasi Owusa-Ansah-CB/S-IUP: Owusa-Ansah stock had been rising all draft season, until a knee injury set him back some. Provided very good tape (albeit at IUP) and showed his top-notch athleticism. The Cowboys won't really need him in the secondary until next year, but "AOA" should be able to contribute immediately in both punt and kick returning.
GRADE: A
4/127: SEA-EJ Wilson-DE-UNC: More of a run-stuffer than pass-rusher. Fills a need, but was considered a 6th or 7th round prospect.
GRADE: C
4/128: DET-Jason Fox-OT-Miami: Terrific pick. Fox was a 4 year starter at Miami who could have been a 1st round pick had it not been for an irregular heartbeat and knee injury this year. If he stays healthy, and the irregular heartbeat was a one-time thing, Detroit could have stolen a franchise LT here.
GRADE: A
4/129: IND-Jacques McClendon-OG-TENN: I never want to doubt Bill Polian, who has made so many picks that seemed questionable during the draft, but pan out and become great players, but I have a hard time seeing a positive with this pick. McClendon was a borderline draftable player by most teams, and could struggle to catch on with the Colts.
GRADE: C
4/130: O'Brien Schofield-OLB-Wisconsin: Had he not torn his ACL at the Senior Bowl, he probably would have gone in the first 2 or 3 rounds. The Cardinals won't need this undersized pass-rushing demon (12 sacks last year in the Big Ten at 237 pounds) until 2011 anyway, which should give him more than enough time to recover, and hopefully bulk up.
GRADE: B+
4/131: CIN-Roddrick Muckelroy-LB-Texas: Never got much publicity during his Longhorn tenure playing along with so many other talented defenders during his career. Muckelroy can be utilized at all of the LB positions (even rush LB occasionally) even though his versatility wasn't on display often in college. Great depth/ST pick at the very least.
GRADE: B
4/99: STL-Mardy Gilyard-WR-Cincinnati: Gilyard is a very talented receiver who has the ability to stretch the defense for Sam Bradford. The Rams needed to get additional weapons for their new franchise QB, and they succeed in doing so here.
GRADE: A-
4/100: MIN-Everson Griffen-DE-USC: Outstanding value pick by the Vikings here. Griffen is one of the most talented players in the entire draft, and was clearly the best overall prospect left. The Vikings grab a player with the 100th pick that was projected by some to go as high as 16th overall to the Titans. The Vikings didn't really need a DE at this juncture, but Griffen was too talented to pass up here, and the Vikings don't really have many needs, and could have gotten a major steal.
GRADE: A+
4/101: TB-Mike Williams-WR-SYR: Interesting pick. Williams is a first or second round prospect in terms of talent alone, but he quit on his team mid-season last year. Hopefully with a paycheck involved, and no school to be "burdened" by, Williams will be able to actually give a crap about his team. If he pans out, the Bucs could be set at WR for the next 10 years.
GRADE: B
4/102: HOU-Darryl Sharpton-ILB-Miami: Sharpton is a decent player, but he doesn't fill a need. I would have gone with a WR or safety at this juncture.
GRADE: B-
4/103: WAS-Perry Riley-OLB-LSU: If the 'Skins were still running a 4-3, this pick would have graded out about 2 letters higher, but Riley is a very poor fit for the 3-4. If the Redskins were looking for a pass rusher, they could have picked Thaddeus Gibson or Eric Norwood, or could have selected Phillip Dillard as an inside linebacker.
GRADE: D+
4/104: TEN-Alterraun Verner-CB-UCLA: Verner is a decent corner who really fills a need for the Titans. Solid pick.
GRADE: B
4/105: Travis Lindley-CB-Kentucky: The Eagles really needed a corner after trading Sheldon Brown, but Lindley's stock has plummeted this season after terrible play, and poor draft season performances.
GRADE: C+
4/106: OAK-Bruce Campbell-OT-Maryland: Great, great pick. Many had the Raiders selecting this workout warrior in the first round, but smartly (can't believe I typed that non-jokingly) they waited until a round or two after Campbell should have gone. He's very raw, but has shown enormous promise and potential. Could be their LT of the next decade after sitting for a year or two to work on technique.
GRADE: A+
4/107: BUF-Marcus Easley-WR-UCONN: A project, but has good size, speed, and decent hands. May take a while to develop into a solid WR, but its not like the Bills are going to be good for a few years anyway.
GRADE: B
4/108: OAK-Jacoby Ford-WR-Clemson: Another solid pick by Oakland. Ford fits the Raider wishlist of an athletic freak (4.27 40), but presents very good value here. Will eventually help at receiver, but will contribute greatly in the return game-both punt and kick-immediately.
GRADE: B+
4/109: CHI-Coorey Wooten-DE-NW: Was dominant before his knee surgery after his junior year (16.5 TFL, 10 sacks), and struggled a bit his senior year, in comparison. Still, he is great against the run, and being another year removed from knee surgery should help him regain his pass-rushing form.
GRADE: B+
4/110: SD-Darrell Stuckey-S-Kansas: Stuckey is a very good value here, and could push the incumbents in front of him. Special teams ace this year, starter the next.
GRADE: A-
4/111: SEA-Walter Thurmond-CB-ORE: Thurmond will help provide quality depth for the Seahawks struggling secondary, but he is extremely injury prone.
GRADE: B-
4/112: NYJ-Joe McKnight-RB-USC: Was supposed to be the "Next Reggie Bush" at USC, but never amounted to anything close to that type of production. If McKnight came from another school, I doubt he would have even be drafted. All-hype player, but he fills a need as a speed back.
GRADE: C+
4/113: NE-Aaron Hernandez-TE-Florida: The Patriots had made it a goal this offseason to surround Tom Brady with more weapons, and they continue to accomplish that goal here. I know they took Gronkowski earlier, but Hernandez is a very different type of TE. They will be able to use him in a number of ways, including H-back, traditional TE, slot receiver, out wide, fullback, and elsewhere.
GRADE: A
4/114: BAL-Dennis Pitta-TE-BYU: The Ravens' second TE pick makes less sense to me than the Patriots does, because I'm not sure either Pitta or Ed Dickson is as versatile as Aaron Hernandez, and therefore it will be harder to get both on the field to help as much as possible. Still, Pitta presented good value here, and provides insurance in case Dickson busts.
GRADE: B-
4/115: NYG-Phillip Dillard-ILB-NEB: More athletic than you would expect when watching him on film. Has a good nose for the football, and a typical Nebraska player's motor (excellent). Solid pick.
GRADE: B
4/116: PIT-Thaddeus Gibson-OLB-Ohio St: Good value, and a potentially solid pick as a 3-4 rush LB. Still, 2 rush LBs before a single corner is questionable in my opinion.
GRADE: B
4/117: ATL-Joseph Hawley-OG/C-UNLV: Fills a need at center, but there were better center prospects on the board.
GRADE: C+
4/118: HOU-Garrett Graham-TE-WISC: The Texans have had success with another receiving TE from Wisconsin, so they dip into that pool again. I think Graham could be a very productive TE who they can move around the field, but Owen Daniels already is that, and so is their 5th round pick from last year, James Casey.
GRADE: B
4/119: MIA-AJ Edds-ILB-Iowa: A tough and gritty player who played outside in college, but will have to kick inside for the Dolphins 3-4. Could be solid, but I see Edds as a much better 4-3 strongside LB than at any LB spot in a 3-4.
GRADE: C+
4/120: CIN-Geno Atkins-DT-Georgia: A physically gifted player (4.75 40 at 293 pounds, 34 BP reps) but definitely underachieved in college, and started only 3 games his senior year. Still, he showed what he is capable of at the Senior Bowl, making 1st round guard Mike Iupati look silly all week. Serious concerns about his effort and work ethic though.
GRADE: B+
4/121: PHI-Keenan Clayton-OLB-OU: An undersized (229 pounds) but speedy (4.57 40) converted safety, Clayton fills a need, but is questionable value here.
GRADE: C
4/122: PHI-Mike Kafka-QB-NW: The Eagles needed a developmental QB in case Kevin Kolb falters, and they get a solid one here. Kafka has really good intangibles, coupled with a solid arm and accuracy.
GRADE: B+
4/123: NO-Al Woods-DT-LSU: Was thought to be the heir to Glenn Dorsey at LSU, but never quite played up to his potential. Still, he is a very intriguing pick for the Saints, and could potentially form a dominant DT duo with Sedrick Ellis.
GRADE: A-
4/124: CAR-Eric Norwood-LB/DE-S. Carolina: Probably a bit undersized to play DE in the NFL, and is probably a better fit in the 3-4, but Norwood was far too good of a value to pass up here. GRADE:A-
4/125: PHI-Clay Harbor-TE/FB-Missouri State: Could be a key cog to the Eagles offense next year. Is skilled enough to be used in multiple different positions right away. What keeps him out of the "A" grade range is the fact that the Eagles still haven't addressed the O-line.
GRADE: B+
4/126: DAL-Akwasi Owusa-Ansah-CB/S-IUP: Owusa-Ansah stock had been rising all draft season, until a knee injury set him back some. Provided very good tape (albeit at IUP) and showed his top-notch athleticism. The Cowboys won't really need him in the secondary until next year, but "AOA" should be able to contribute immediately in both punt and kick returning.
GRADE: A
4/127: SEA-EJ Wilson-DE-UNC: More of a run-stuffer than pass-rusher. Fills a need, but was considered a 6th or 7th round prospect.
GRADE: C
4/128: DET-Jason Fox-OT-Miami: Terrific pick. Fox was a 4 year starter at Miami who could have been a 1st round pick had it not been for an irregular heartbeat and knee injury this year. If he stays healthy, and the irregular heartbeat was a one-time thing, Detroit could have stolen a franchise LT here.
GRADE: A
4/129: IND-Jacques McClendon-OG-TENN: I never want to doubt Bill Polian, who has made so many picks that seemed questionable during the draft, but pan out and become great players, but I have a hard time seeing a positive with this pick. McClendon was a borderline draftable player by most teams, and could struggle to catch on with the Colts.
GRADE: C
4/130: O'Brien Schofield-OLB-Wisconsin: Had he not torn his ACL at the Senior Bowl, he probably would have gone in the first 2 or 3 rounds. The Cardinals won't need this undersized pass-rushing demon (12 sacks last year in the Big Ten at 237 pounds) until 2011 anyway, which should give him more than enough time to recover, and hopefully bulk up.
GRADE: B+
4/131: CIN-Roddrick Muckelroy-LB-Texas: Never got much publicity during his Longhorn tenure playing along with so many other talented defenders during his career. Muckelroy can be utilized at all of the LB positions (even rush LB occasionally) even though his versatility wasn't on display often in college. Great depth/ST pick at the very least.
GRADE: B
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Pick by Pick Analysis and Grades-Round 2
Round 1 Round 2 Round 3 Round 4 Round 5 Round 6 Round 7
Round 2/Pick 33: STL-Roger Saffold-OT-Indiana: Incredibly smart pick by the Rams. You just made a 50 million dollar investment in Sam Bradford, so why not give him an exceptional O-lineman for protection? Some wanted a WR like Golden Tate or Arrelious Benn here, but the Rams were smart in building up their line first.
GRADE: B+
2/34: MIN: Chris Cook-CB/S-Virginia: I like Chris Cook as a corner prospect, but I don't think he will be anything exceptionally special. Solid pick by the Vikings that fills a definite need.
GRADE: B
2/35: TB: Brian Price-DT-UCLA: In terms of value, this is a good pick, as Price could have gone as high as 20th overall according to some. However, the Bucs already have two very good DTs in Gerald McCoy, who they selected in the first round, and Roy Miller, a second year player. If the Bucs were a solid playoff level team, this pick would be acceptable. They are not however, and therefore need to focus on their needs more.
GRADE: D
2/36: KC-Dexter McCluster-RB/WR-Ole Miss: The Chiefs select a lightning quick RB with very good hands and is a capable return man here. That would have been fine, if they hadn't selected the same exact thing 2 years ago in Jamaal Charles (who is everything McCluster is, only 15 pounds heavier). Terrible pick. If you're the Chiefs, you can't afford to take a luxury pick like McCluster in the 2nd round. You need players who can start for you, not backups.
GRADE: D
2/37: PHI-Nate Allen-S-USF: Some had a late first round grade on Allen, although I had him in the early 40s. Regardless, the Eagles filled a big need at safety with this selection.
GRADE: B+
2/38: CLE-TJ Ward-S-Oregon: I'm not sure if the Browns just panicked because they wanted to take Nate Allen, so they spazzed out and grabbed the next safety they saw on their board, or what, but this was an exceptionally bad pick. Ward was, at best, a round 4 prospect in this year's draft, but the Browns select him with the 38th overall pick. No wonder they're drafting towards the beginning of every round nearly every year.
GRADE: D+
2/39: TB-Arrelious Benn-WR-Illinois: Benn is a dynamic athlete who thrives making big runs when the ball is in his hands. Unfortunately though, Benn had a hard time getting the ball in his hands last year, as he dropped a ton of passes. Some of that may have been caused by his shoddy (at best) QB play last season that could not throw a spiral, or accurate pass. Great value pick by the Bucs here.
GRADE: B+
2/40: MIA-Koa Misi-OLB-Utah: Misi has the size and athletic ability to be a productive Rush LB for the Dolphins, while not being terrible in coverage. Somewhat of a project though, as he'll need to learn coverages and how to play with his hand off of the ground after playing with his hand on the ground at Utah.
GRADE: B
2/41: BUF-Terrell Troupe-NT-UCF: Does the pick fill a need? Yes, the Bills simply had nothing to plug in at NT in their first year as a 3-4 team. However, I would probably have selected Terrence Cody or Cam Thomas here instead. Still, fills a need and gives them a probable starter this year.
GRADE: B-
2/42: NE-Rob Gronkowski-TE-Arizona: Had Gronkowski played this year, he more than likely would have been a 1st round pick. There are/were some worries about his back, but everything I've heard says he is medically cleared now. He is an exceptional blocker in the run game, and is athletic enough to make catches all over the field. The Pats get themselves a potentially huge steal in round 2, much to the delight of Tom Brady.
GRADE: A-
2/43: BAL-Sergio Kindle-OLB-Texas: Kindle's play dropped off a bit after his dominating junior year, although there is a perfectly good explanation for this. All through high school, and until his senior year, Kindle played some semblance of linebacker. His junior year, when he recorded double digit sacks, he played predominately as a Rush LB, a position similar to what he will play in the NFL, while his senior year, he played with his hand on the ground mainly as a DE. Baltimore gets the steal of the 2nd round.
GRADE: A+
2/44: OAK-LaMarr Houston-DE/DT-Texas: This pick befuddles me a bit, as Houston is fits better as a 4-3 DT fit than a 3-4 DE, in my opinion. In their first two picks, the Raiders selected one player, depending on the scheme they choose, that will not be as productive as possible due to playing in the wrong scheme. I do love Houston as a player, and think he could be very disruptive as an interior pass rusher.
GRADE: B
2/45: DEN-Zane Beadles-OT-Utah: After the Senior Bowl, I knocked Beadles down into the 4th round range, so picking him here is definitely a reach. That said, he does fill a big need on the Denver offensive line, so they get some marks for that.
GRADE: C
2/46: NYG-Linval Joseph-DT-ECU: The Giants address their defensive line, again, this time going for a big run stuffer. I think Joseph would be more effective in a 3-4 scheme, but he'll be okay here. Unfortunately for the Giants, who want to win now, he probably won't contribute for a year or two, as he is still somewhat raw, but there is potential aplenty.
GRADE: B-
2/47: ARI-Darryl Washington-ILB-TCU: I am very high on Darryl Washington. He may be able to step in right away and help fill the void created when Karlos Dansby left for Miami. Predicion-in three years, Washington will lead the league in tackles, and be considered one of the 3 best ILB in football.
GRADE: A-
2/48: CAR-Jimmy Clausen-QB-ND: I'm not sold on Jimmy Clausen, at all. Sure, he came out of a Pro Style offense at Notre Dame, put up good numbers, and has solid mechanics, but his arm strength is very overrated, he stares down receivers (and wasn't able to fix that in 3 years with one of the best offensive minds in the world in Charlie Weis), and is not the leader you want in a QB. Additionally, I don't like this pick because I felt Matt Moore was the perfect QB for the Panthers, a smart game manager who won't lose you the game who was on the verge of becoming a top 8 quarterback in the NFL.
GRADE: C
2/49: SF-Taylor Mays-S-USC: Mays lost a ton of money this year, when his lack of ability in coverage was exposed. Still, get him here is an incredible value for San Francisco. Mays definitely fits the physical nature that Coach Singletary prefers in his players. Could eventually have to move to linebacker if he doesn't improve in coverage.
GRADE: B+
2/50: KC-Javier Arenas-CB-Alabama: A solid corner prospect who should develop into a very good #2 in the league. Also is a capable return man, but with the selection of Dexter McCluster 14 picks earlier, he may be delegated to only taking punt returns instead of both kickoffs and punts.
GRADE: B
2/51: MIN-Toby Gerhart-RB-Stanford: I hate playing the race card, but I truly believe that if Toby was not a white man, he would have been a first round pick. He is a bruising runner with solid speed (ran in the 4.5's at the combine), has outstanding vision, and is a capable, underrated receiver out of the backfield. That being said, the Vikings probably could have used a quicker back to change the pace from AP's bruising style. (Maybe they have big plans for Harvin out of the backfield??)
GRADE: B
2/52: PIT-Jason Worilds-OLB-VT: A pretty good athlete, but wasn't terribly productive as a pass rusher last year (only 4 sacks). He has the tools to be another great Steeler rush LB though.
GRADE: B-
2/53: NE-Jermaine Cunningham-OLB-Florida: A promising rush LB prospect. Cunningham has the motor, and nonstop, never quit attitude that you covet in a pass rusher (this is why he was selected before his more-talented college teammate Carlos Dunlap). Still has an uphill battle to be successful though, since he'll be moving from a 3 point to a 2 point stance.
GRADE: B
2/54: CIN-Carlos Dunlap-DE-Florida: Will step into the NFL and automatically be one of the most physically talented prospects in the league. Unfortunately for both Dunlap and the Bengals, there is more to a player than just natural ability. If Dunlap had any sort of motor, he would be a lock for double digit sacks every year of his career. I think falling into the 2nd round will be a wake up call for him and he will finally play up to his potential. (Until his first big payday)
GRADE: B+
2/55: DAL-Sean Lee-ILB-Penn State: Typical Penn State linebacker, Lee is gritty as can be. Could push for playing time this year, and will probably be starting (barring injury-big concern) by year two.
GRADE: B
2/56: GB- Mike Neal-DE-Purdue: Is very athletic (runs a 4.86 and 294 pounds) but was way overdrafted in my opinion as I had him as a round 4 prospect. Still, if he can combine his athleticism with some consistent play, he could be a very good end.
GRADE: C
2/57: BAL- Terrence Cody-NT: At the start of the draft season, I was extremely weary of the work ethic of the 370 "Mount" Cody. Over the next couple of months, I saw some very good things out of him, as he cut over 20 pounds in a short period of time. He will be a dominant run stuffer in the league for as long as he wants to stay in shape.
GRADE: B+
2/58: HOU- Ben Tate-RB-Auburn: Tate is a very good fit for the Texans' zone blocking scheme, as he is definitely a "one cut n' go" type runner.
GRADE: B
2/59: CLE- Montario Hardesty-RB-TENN: I really like Hardesty as a runner, but I also like two of the backs already on Cleveland's roster: Jerome Harrison and James Davis. I have a hard time seeing Hardesty getting much burn, or being much better if he gets carries, with the other runners on the team. Pick should have been used elsewhere.
GRADE: C-
2/60: SEA- Golden Tate-WR-ND: Projected by some to go as high as the late 20's overall, the Seahawks AGAIN make another great selection. A big-time dynamic playmaker that can line up almost anywhere (out wide, slot, as a back, WildCat QB) will really open up the Seahawks offense, and he fills a big need with the loss of Nate Burleson.
GRADE: A
2/61: NYJ- Vladimir Ducasse-OG/OT-UMass: Ducasse has the potential to be one of the best interior linemen in football. However, he is very raw, so hopefully the Jets don't throw him to the wolves right away in the wake of the Alan Faneca release.
GRADE: B+
2/62: NE-Brandon Spikes-ILB-Florida: Spikes ran painfully slow at his Pro Day (5.00+ in the 40) but still can be an extremely effective in-the-box linebacker. He won't make many plays going sideline to sideline, but will be a good fit as a 2 down linebacker in New England's 3-4.
GRADE: B
2/63: IND-Pat Angerer-MLB-Iowa: I had him going in the late 3rd round, so this isn't a terrible reach. Still though, I would have liked it if the Colts selected someone like Charles Brown or even Bruce Campbell here instead to give Manning blindside protection.
GRADE: B-
2/64: NO-Charles Brown-OT-USC: Reportedly fell due to injury concerns. The Saints get a steal here if Brown can stay healthy, as they could eventually replace Jammal Brown with Charles Brown on the blindside.
GRADE: B+
Round 2/Pick 33: STL-Roger Saffold-OT-Indiana: Incredibly smart pick by the Rams. You just made a 50 million dollar investment in Sam Bradford, so why not give him an exceptional O-lineman for protection? Some wanted a WR like Golden Tate or Arrelious Benn here, but the Rams were smart in building up their line first.
GRADE: B+
2/34: MIN: Chris Cook-CB/S-Virginia: I like Chris Cook as a corner prospect, but I don't think he will be anything exceptionally special. Solid pick by the Vikings that fills a definite need.
GRADE: B
2/35: TB: Brian Price-DT-UCLA: In terms of value, this is a good pick, as Price could have gone as high as 20th overall according to some. However, the Bucs already have two very good DTs in Gerald McCoy, who they selected in the first round, and Roy Miller, a second year player. If the Bucs were a solid playoff level team, this pick would be acceptable. They are not however, and therefore need to focus on their needs more.
GRADE: D
2/36: KC-Dexter McCluster-RB/WR-Ole Miss: The Chiefs select a lightning quick RB with very good hands and is a capable return man here. That would have been fine, if they hadn't selected the same exact thing 2 years ago in Jamaal Charles (who is everything McCluster is, only 15 pounds heavier). Terrible pick. If you're the Chiefs, you can't afford to take a luxury pick like McCluster in the 2nd round. You need players who can start for you, not backups.
GRADE: D
2/37: PHI-Nate Allen-S-USF: Some had a late first round grade on Allen, although I had him in the early 40s. Regardless, the Eagles filled a big need at safety with this selection.
GRADE: B+
2/38: CLE-TJ Ward-S-Oregon: I'm not sure if the Browns just panicked because they wanted to take Nate Allen, so they spazzed out and grabbed the next safety they saw on their board, or what, but this was an exceptionally bad pick. Ward was, at best, a round 4 prospect in this year's draft, but the Browns select him with the 38th overall pick. No wonder they're drafting towards the beginning of every round nearly every year.
GRADE: D+
2/39: TB-Arrelious Benn-WR-Illinois: Benn is a dynamic athlete who thrives making big runs when the ball is in his hands. Unfortunately though, Benn had a hard time getting the ball in his hands last year, as he dropped a ton of passes. Some of that may have been caused by his shoddy (at best) QB play last season that could not throw a spiral, or accurate pass. Great value pick by the Bucs here.
GRADE: B+
2/40: MIA-Koa Misi-OLB-Utah: Misi has the size and athletic ability to be a productive Rush LB for the Dolphins, while not being terrible in coverage. Somewhat of a project though, as he'll need to learn coverages and how to play with his hand off of the ground after playing with his hand on the ground at Utah.
GRADE: B
2/41: BUF-Terrell Troupe-NT-UCF: Does the pick fill a need? Yes, the Bills simply had nothing to plug in at NT in their first year as a 3-4 team. However, I would probably have selected Terrence Cody or Cam Thomas here instead. Still, fills a need and gives them a probable starter this year.
GRADE: B-
2/42: NE-Rob Gronkowski-TE-Arizona: Had Gronkowski played this year, he more than likely would have been a 1st round pick. There are/were some worries about his back, but everything I've heard says he is medically cleared now. He is an exceptional blocker in the run game, and is athletic enough to make catches all over the field. The Pats get themselves a potentially huge steal in round 2, much to the delight of Tom Brady.
GRADE: A-
2/43: BAL-Sergio Kindle-OLB-Texas: Kindle's play dropped off a bit after his dominating junior year, although there is a perfectly good explanation for this. All through high school, and until his senior year, Kindle played some semblance of linebacker. His junior year, when he recorded double digit sacks, he played predominately as a Rush LB, a position similar to what he will play in the NFL, while his senior year, he played with his hand on the ground mainly as a DE. Baltimore gets the steal of the 2nd round.
GRADE: A+
2/44: OAK-LaMarr Houston-DE/DT-Texas: This pick befuddles me a bit, as Houston is fits better as a 4-3 DT fit than a 3-4 DE, in my opinion. In their first two picks, the Raiders selected one player, depending on the scheme they choose, that will not be as productive as possible due to playing in the wrong scheme. I do love Houston as a player, and think he could be very disruptive as an interior pass rusher.
GRADE: B
2/45: DEN-Zane Beadles-OT-Utah: After the Senior Bowl, I knocked Beadles down into the 4th round range, so picking him here is definitely a reach. That said, he does fill a big need on the Denver offensive line, so they get some marks for that.
GRADE: C
2/46: NYG-Linval Joseph-DT-ECU: The Giants address their defensive line, again, this time going for a big run stuffer. I think Joseph would be more effective in a 3-4 scheme, but he'll be okay here. Unfortunately for the Giants, who want to win now, he probably won't contribute for a year or two, as he is still somewhat raw, but there is potential aplenty.
GRADE: B-
2/47: ARI-Darryl Washington-ILB-TCU: I am very high on Darryl Washington. He may be able to step in right away and help fill the void created when Karlos Dansby left for Miami. Predicion-in three years, Washington will lead the league in tackles, and be considered one of the 3 best ILB in football.
GRADE: A-
2/48: CAR-Jimmy Clausen-QB-ND: I'm not sold on Jimmy Clausen, at all. Sure, he came out of a Pro Style offense at Notre Dame, put up good numbers, and has solid mechanics, but his arm strength is very overrated, he stares down receivers (and wasn't able to fix that in 3 years with one of the best offensive minds in the world in Charlie Weis), and is not the leader you want in a QB. Additionally, I don't like this pick because I felt Matt Moore was the perfect QB for the Panthers, a smart game manager who won't lose you the game who was on the verge of becoming a top 8 quarterback in the NFL.
GRADE: C
2/49: SF-Taylor Mays-S-USC: Mays lost a ton of money this year, when his lack of ability in coverage was exposed. Still, get him here is an incredible value for San Francisco. Mays definitely fits the physical nature that Coach Singletary prefers in his players. Could eventually have to move to linebacker if he doesn't improve in coverage.
GRADE: B+
2/50: KC-Javier Arenas-CB-Alabama: A solid corner prospect who should develop into a very good #2 in the league. Also is a capable return man, but with the selection of Dexter McCluster 14 picks earlier, he may be delegated to only taking punt returns instead of both kickoffs and punts.
GRADE: B
2/51: MIN-Toby Gerhart-RB-Stanford: I hate playing the race card, but I truly believe that if Toby was not a white man, he would have been a first round pick. He is a bruising runner with solid speed (ran in the 4.5's at the combine), has outstanding vision, and is a capable, underrated receiver out of the backfield. That being said, the Vikings probably could have used a quicker back to change the pace from AP's bruising style. (Maybe they have big plans for Harvin out of the backfield??)
GRADE: B
2/52: PIT-Jason Worilds-OLB-VT: A pretty good athlete, but wasn't terribly productive as a pass rusher last year (only 4 sacks). He has the tools to be another great Steeler rush LB though.
GRADE: B-
2/53: NE-Jermaine Cunningham-OLB-Florida: A promising rush LB prospect. Cunningham has the motor, and nonstop, never quit attitude that you covet in a pass rusher (this is why he was selected before his more-talented college teammate Carlos Dunlap). Still has an uphill battle to be successful though, since he'll be moving from a 3 point to a 2 point stance.
GRADE: B
2/54: CIN-Carlos Dunlap-DE-Florida: Will step into the NFL and automatically be one of the most physically talented prospects in the league. Unfortunately for both Dunlap and the Bengals, there is more to a player than just natural ability. If Dunlap had any sort of motor, he would be a lock for double digit sacks every year of his career. I think falling into the 2nd round will be a wake up call for him and he will finally play up to his potential. (Until his first big payday)
GRADE: B+
2/55: DAL-Sean Lee-ILB-Penn State: Typical Penn State linebacker, Lee is gritty as can be. Could push for playing time this year, and will probably be starting (barring injury-big concern) by year two.
GRADE: B
2/56: GB- Mike Neal-DE-Purdue: Is very athletic (runs a 4.86 and 294 pounds) but was way overdrafted in my opinion as I had him as a round 4 prospect. Still, if he can combine his athleticism with some consistent play, he could be a very good end.
GRADE: C
2/57: BAL- Terrence Cody-NT: At the start of the draft season, I was extremely weary of the work ethic of the 370 "Mount" Cody. Over the next couple of months, I saw some very good things out of him, as he cut over 20 pounds in a short period of time. He will be a dominant run stuffer in the league for as long as he wants to stay in shape.
GRADE: B+
2/58: HOU- Ben Tate-RB-Auburn: Tate is a very good fit for the Texans' zone blocking scheme, as he is definitely a "one cut n' go" type runner.
GRADE: B
2/59: CLE- Montario Hardesty-RB-TENN: I really like Hardesty as a runner, but I also like two of the backs already on Cleveland's roster: Jerome Harrison and James Davis. I have a hard time seeing Hardesty getting much burn, or being much better if he gets carries, with the other runners on the team. Pick should have been used elsewhere.
GRADE: C-
2/60: SEA- Golden Tate-WR-ND: Projected by some to go as high as the late 20's overall, the Seahawks AGAIN make another great selection. A big-time dynamic playmaker that can line up almost anywhere (out wide, slot, as a back, WildCat QB) will really open up the Seahawks offense, and he fills a big need with the loss of Nate Burleson.
GRADE: A
2/61: NYJ- Vladimir Ducasse-OG/OT-UMass: Ducasse has the potential to be one of the best interior linemen in football. However, he is very raw, so hopefully the Jets don't throw him to the wolves right away in the wake of the Alan Faneca release.
GRADE: B+
2/62: NE-Brandon Spikes-ILB-Florida: Spikes ran painfully slow at his Pro Day (5.00+ in the 40) but still can be an extremely effective in-the-box linebacker. He won't make many plays going sideline to sideline, but will be a good fit as a 2 down linebacker in New England's 3-4.
GRADE: B
2/63: IND-Pat Angerer-MLB-Iowa: I had him going in the late 3rd round, so this isn't a terrible reach. Still though, I would have liked it if the Colts selected someone like Charles Brown or even Bruce Campbell here instead to give Manning blindside protection.
GRADE: B-
2/64: NO-Charles Brown-OT-USC: Reportedly fell due to injury concerns. The Saints get a steal here if Brown can stay healthy, as they could eventually replace Jammal Brown with Charles Brown on the blindside.
GRADE: B+
Saturday, April 18, 2009
NFL Draft-Broncos
And the award for the team with the biggest offseason drama goes to....the Denver Broncos for their role in the Jay Cutler crisis. The fact that Jay wanted a trade and got so upset just for being thrown around in trade talks is pretty ridiculous if you ask me-all though the Broncos did get a pretty good haul in return for him-netting QB Kyle Orton, 2 first round picks (18th in 2009, and the Bears #1 in 2010), along with the 84th pick in this draft in exchange for the unhappy Cutler and a 6th round pick.
This trade doesn't hurt the Bronco's offense as much as you may think. Kyle Orton thrived in this same style offense in college, has two dynamic playmakers to throw to in Eddie Royal and Brandon Marshall, they have a nice stable of runningbacks, and they have a slightly above average O-line. The big worry, is on defense. They were one of the worst teams statistically on that side of the ball, letting opponents run all over them and their weak 4-3 D. So now, they move to the 3-4 with hopes that they will be able to stop somebody at least occasionally.
In addition to the trade for Kyle Orton, the Broncos have been the busiest team in the Free Agent market, signing 12 new players so far including QB Chris Simms, RBs LaMont Jordan, JJ Arrington, and Correll Buckhalter, LB Andra Davis, and Saftey Brian Dawkins. They also let several players go to find new teams, but most of them were defensive players who don't fit their new scheme.
So onto the Draft now, with the 12th overall pick the Broncos could go a few different ways. Tyson Jackson, a run-stuffing DE from LSU, could be the pick and be an essential part of their new defenese, Everette Brown could be the dominate pass-rushing OLB for the scheme, or they could build for the future and select USC's 1 year wonder Mark Sanchez at QB.
With their second 1st round pick (18th) I think the Broncos will draft a player who can help in them defend their opponents passing game. A physical freak of a cornerback, Vontae Davis, could be available to them at this pick.
Their remaining picks (2/48, 3/79, 3/84, 4/114, 5/149, 6/185, 7/225, and 7/235), expect possibly 6 or so of the picks to be used on the defensive side of the ball. Boston College's Ron Brace, Georgia's Corey Irvin, and Utah's Sean Smith are all possibilties in the 2 to 3rd round range.
THE PICK(s): 1/12: Mark Sanchez-QB, USC and 1/18: Vontae Davis-CB, Illinois
*The Broncos could trade up to the 8th pick to select Mark Sanchez if he is still available
This trade doesn't hurt the Bronco's offense as much as you may think. Kyle Orton thrived in this same style offense in college, has two dynamic playmakers to throw to in Eddie Royal and Brandon Marshall, they have a nice stable of runningbacks, and they have a slightly above average O-line. The big worry, is on defense. They were one of the worst teams statistically on that side of the ball, letting opponents run all over them and their weak 4-3 D. So now, they move to the 3-4 with hopes that they will be able to stop somebody at least occasionally.
In addition to the trade for Kyle Orton, the Broncos have been the busiest team in the Free Agent market, signing 12 new players so far including QB Chris Simms, RBs LaMont Jordan, JJ Arrington, and Correll Buckhalter, LB Andra Davis, and Saftey Brian Dawkins. They also let several players go to find new teams, but most of them were defensive players who don't fit their new scheme.
So onto the Draft now, with the 12th overall pick the Broncos could go a few different ways. Tyson Jackson, a run-stuffing DE from LSU, could be the pick and be an essential part of their new defenese, Everette Brown could be the dominate pass-rushing OLB for the scheme, or they could build for the future and select USC's 1 year wonder Mark Sanchez at QB.
With their second 1st round pick (18th) I think the Broncos will draft a player who can help in them defend their opponents passing game. A physical freak of a cornerback, Vontae Davis, could be available to them at this pick.
Their remaining picks (2/48, 3/79, 3/84, 4/114, 5/149, 6/185, 7/225, and 7/235), expect possibly 6 or so of the picks to be used on the defensive side of the ball. Boston College's Ron Brace, Georgia's Corey Irvin, and Utah's Sean Smith are all possibilties in the 2 to 3rd round range.
THE PICK(s): 1/12: Mark Sanchez-QB, USC and 1/18: Vontae Davis-CB, Illinois
*The Broncos could trade up to the 8th pick to select Mark Sanchez if he is still available
Friday, April 17, 2009
NFL Draft-Bills (Update)
Now that the Bills have trade LT Jason Peters for the Eagles second 1st round pick (28th) and 4th round pick (), plus their 2010 6th rounder, their draft board changes.
Now in the 1st round at pick 11, I have them picking Brandon Pettigrew and at pick 28 the pick is Clay Matthews of USC.
Now in the 1st round at pick 11, I have them picking Brandon Pettigrew and at pick 28 the pick is Clay Matthews of USC.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
NFL Draft-Bills
The Bills started out last season on fire, getting of to a 5-1 start, but they fizzled down the stretch, winning only 2 of their final 10 games and finishing with a disappointing 7-9 record. A lot of this, in my opinion, is the coaching. It doesn't matter who you play, to win 5 of 6 is impressive and it requires talent, so what do you think happened? Sure, some of it falls on the players and how they performed, but a top tier coach is someone who can get everyone to play at their best no matter the score and no matter the record and I just don't think Dick Jauron is that guy.
The Bills have had a pretty average offseason, they added some good depth with players like Drayton Florence and Geoff Hangartner, along with the signing of Terrell Owens-which is exactly what Trent Edwards and Lee Evans needed (He really isn't that bad of a charecter anymore, ESPN needs stories so anytime he breathes its news), but they kind of balanced that out with the releasings and non-resignings of a few players like Angelo Crowell, Derrick Dockery, and Robert Royal. Also of note, star LT Jason Peters is very unhappy with his contract situation and as unhappy as they would be about doing so, they may have to eventually trade him.
In the 1st round (pick 11), the Bills will probably go for one of these two positions: Tight End or Defensive End. The 11th overall pick may be a bit too high for the top TE in this class, Brandon Pettigrew, but I wouldn't knock the pick if it happens. He's a very good, reliable pass catcher-although he won't absolutely break a game open-and he is an absolutely dominating blocker from the TE spot. If they select him here, they could groom him into being their LT of the future maybe. When it comes down to it though, I think DE is the choice as 3 or 4 very solid pass rushers will be available at this pick (Robert Ayers, Everette Brown, Michael Johnson, and maybe Aaron Maybin) and the Bills need all the help getting to the QB they can get.
In the second round (pick 42) the Bills will definitely pick Brandon Pettigrew if he somehow falls to them, but if he doesn't, the possible positions that will be addressed are O-line and OLB. Possible picks would be Max Unger, the C/G player from Oregon, or OLB Clint Sintim from Virginia.
With their remaining picks (3/75, 4/110, 5/147, 6/183, and 7/220) look for the Bills to add at lease 1, but possibly 2 or 3 offensive lineman, a pass rusher, a TE maybe, and some defensive back help.
THE PICK: Robert Ayers-DE, Tennessee
The Bills have had a pretty average offseason, they added some good depth with players like Drayton Florence and Geoff Hangartner, along with the signing of Terrell Owens-which is exactly what Trent Edwards and Lee Evans needed (He really isn't that bad of a charecter anymore, ESPN needs stories so anytime he breathes its news), but they kind of balanced that out with the releasings and non-resignings of a few players like Angelo Crowell, Derrick Dockery, and Robert Royal. Also of note, star LT Jason Peters is very unhappy with his contract situation and as unhappy as they would be about doing so, they may have to eventually trade him.
In the 1st round (pick 11), the Bills will probably go for one of these two positions: Tight End or Defensive End. The 11th overall pick may be a bit too high for the top TE in this class, Brandon Pettigrew, but I wouldn't knock the pick if it happens. He's a very good, reliable pass catcher-although he won't absolutely break a game open-and he is an absolutely dominating blocker from the TE spot. If they select him here, they could groom him into being their LT of the future maybe. When it comes down to it though, I think DE is the choice as 3 or 4 very solid pass rushers will be available at this pick (Robert Ayers, Everette Brown, Michael Johnson, and maybe Aaron Maybin) and the Bills need all the help getting to the QB they can get.
In the second round (pick 42) the Bills will definitely pick Brandon Pettigrew if he somehow falls to them, but if he doesn't, the possible positions that will be addressed are O-line and OLB. Possible picks would be Max Unger, the C/G player from Oregon, or OLB Clint Sintim from Virginia.
With their remaining picks (3/75, 4/110, 5/147, 6/183, and 7/220) look for the Bills to add at lease 1, but possibly 2 or 3 offensive lineman, a pass rusher, a TE maybe, and some defensive back help.
THE PICK: Robert Ayers-DE, Tennessee
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
NFL Draft-Packers
The Packers are currently in the middle of completely reconfiguring their defense. They are switching from a team that was suited very well for the 4-3, but now they are a member of the 3-4 club. They are pretty much set on offense, except they could maybe use another runningback and a little extra depth at the Tackle spots. On defense though, they need some of everything, Nose tackle, run-stuffing DE's, another pass rushing OLB, and they have 2 ILBs who have no business being in a 3-4 (although they are great in the 4-3).
Surprisingly though, thusfar in free agency the Pack haven't added a single player on the defensive side of the ball and let 330 pound DE/DT Collin Cole sign with the Seahawks.
Some players I see the Packers taking a run at before the free agency period is over are, some older Defensive Ends: Kevin Carter, Vonnie Holliday, and Orpheus Roye (they don't have a lot left, but they can still hold blockers and stop the run better than their other ends) and some young players like Antwan Lake and Dwan Edwards
Nose Tackles: Ryan Sims
Outside Linebackers: Jason Taylor (he worked some as a 3-4 LB when in Miami), Roderick Green, Antwaan Peek, and Carlos Polk.
Now, as you are probably well aware, none of these players are really impact players anymore, but in a 3-4 system, I think they could so a servicable job-which is all the Packers can really hope for.
In the draft, with the 9th overall pick, I would be absolutely shocked if the pick was for anything except for their front 7. They could go with a DE/OLB like Everette Brown, Aaron Maybin, or Brian Orakpo if he falls, but my money is on NT BJ Raji.
With their 2nd round choice (pick 41), look for the Packers to try and find a NT, OLB, or DE. If they can't land Raji at the 9th overall spot, BC's other DT Ron Brace is a solid option, as is OLB Connor Barwin, Larry English, Marcus Freeman, and DE Fili Moala.
The remainder of their picks (3/73, 3/83, 4/109, 5/145, 6/182, 6/187, and 7/218) could very well all be spent on defensive players, although that is highly unlikely. I except them to use 5 of their 7 remaining picks on defense (1 of which will be used on the cornerback position), with the other 2 picks being a RB and a very versatile lineman who can play at least 3 of the O-line spots.
THE PICK: BJ Raji-NT,BC
Surprisingly though, thusfar in free agency the Pack haven't added a single player on the defensive side of the ball and let 330 pound DE/DT Collin Cole sign with the Seahawks.
Some players I see the Packers taking a run at before the free agency period is over are, some older Defensive Ends: Kevin Carter, Vonnie Holliday, and Orpheus Roye (they don't have a lot left, but they can still hold blockers and stop the run better than their other ends) and some young players like Antwan Lake and Dwan Edwards
Nose Tackles: Ryan Sims
Outside Linebackers: Jason Taylor (he worked some as a 3-4 LB when in Miami), Roderick Green, Antwaan Peek, and Carlos Polk.
Now, as you are probably well aware, none of these players are really impact players anymore, but in a 3-4 system, I think they could so a servicable job-which is all the Packers can really hope for.
In the draft, with the 9th overall pick, I would be absolutely shocked if the pick was for anything except for their front 7. They could go with a DE/OLB like Everette Brown, Aaron Maybin, or Brian Orakpo if he falls, but my money is on NT BJ Raji.
With their 2nd round choice (pick 41), look for the Packers to try and find a NT, OLB, or DE. If they can't land Raji at the 9th overall spot, BC's other DT Ron Brace is a solid option, as is OLB Connor Barwin, Larry English, Marcus Freeman, and DE Fili Moala.
The remainder of their picks (3/73, 3/83, 4/109, 5/145, 6/182, 6/187, and 7/218) could very well all be spent on defensive players, although that is highly unlikely. I except them to use 5 of their 7 remaining picks on defense (1 of which will be used on the cornerback position), with the other 2 picks being a RB and a very versatile lineman who can play at least 3 of the O-line spots.
THE PICK: BJ Raji-NT,BC
Sunday, April 12, 2009
NFL Draft-Browns
I really dont know what to make of the Browns. Are they as good as they were in 2007, are they the team we saw suck it up last year, are they somewhere in between? I personally think that they are somewhere inbetween those two extremes, slightly leaning more towards the 2007 side though. I think that Brady Quinn will be a servicable QB in the league sooner rather than later, Braylon Edwards will figure out that its the wide recievers job to catch the ball, not batt it down, and their defensive will begin to get a stop every now and again.
They've definitely not been productive personal wise, trading Kellen Winslow Jr. for a couple draft picks and haven't done anything else note-worthy. They did, however, hire who I think is one of the best coaches in football in Eric Mangini..although apparently Shaun Rogers wants a trade now because of this. If they do, for some unGodly reason trade him, I don't think it will really shake up their draft board much, but it would really make me question the decision makers in the organization because they would only be adding another hole to an already porous defense.
The top needs for the Browns are; a pass-rushing OLB, a RB, CB, RT, and thanks to Donte Stallworth's intoxicated manslaughter charges, WR.
In the 1st round (5th overall pick) look for the Browns to fill their biggest need-the pass rushing OLB. Choices like Texas' Brian Orakpo and FSU's Everette Brown will both be available and either would be a solid pick. In the end though, I say it is Orakpo.
In the 2nd round, pick 36, look for the Browns to make a play on either a running back with some speed, or a conerback. LeSean McCoy or Darius Butler are possible choices.
With their remaining picks (2/50, 4/104, and 6/177) look for them to select either a RB or CB-whichever wasn't picked with their 1st second round pick, a Right Guard or Right Tackle (or someone who plays both), and a Wide Reciever.
THE PICK: Brian Orakpo-OLB/DE, Texas
They've definitely not been productive personal wise, trading Kellen Winslow Jr. for a couple draft picks and haven't done anything else note-worthy. They did, however, hire who I think is one of the best coaches in football in Eric Mangini..although apparently Shaun Rogers wants a trade now because of this. If they do, for some unGodly reason trade him, I don't think it will really shake up their draft board much, but it would really make me question the decision makers in the organization because they would only be adding another hole to an already porous defense.
The top needs for the Browns are; a pass-rushing OLB, a RB, CB, RT, and thanks to Donte Stallworth's intoxicated manslaughter charges, WR.
In the 1st round (5th overall pick) look for the Browns to fill their biggest need-the pass rushing OLB. Choices like Texas' Brian Orakpo and FSU's Everette Brown will both be available and either would be a solid pick. In the end though, I say it is Orakpo.
In the 2nd round, pick 36, look for the Browns to make a play on either a running back with some speed, or a conerback. LeSean McCoy or Darius Butler are possible choices.
With their remaining picks (2/50, 4/104, and 6/177) look for them to select either a RB or CB-whichever wasn't picked with their 1st second round pick, a Right Guard or Right Tackle (or someone who plays both), and a Wide Reciever.
THE PICK: Brian Orakpo-OLB/DE, Texas
NFL Draft-Seahawks
The Seahawks are a team whose returning (and newly added) talent is far better than what their record showed last year, okay maybe not far better but at least...better. Injuries to many of their key offensive figures last season like Matt Hasselbeck, Bobby Engram, Nate Burleson, Deion Branch, Walter Jones, and others really hampered their chances of making any noise at all.
This year, Matt Hasselbeck, the most important player for the Hawks and his balky back should be back close to 100% and he has a new reciever to throw to in TJ Houshmandzadeh who should replace all the priduction and then some of oft-injured Bobby Engram who is now a member of the Chiefs. Walter Jones is still a large (slight pun intended) question mark due to his microfracture surgery, and much of the Seahawks success will depend on how well that knee holds up over the course of the season.
Now on to the draft. The Seahawks, like many teams, could go any number of directions with this pick. They could go for a QB to groom and eventually replace Hasselbeck, they could go WR to improve its recieving corps, they could try to bolster their pass rush with a solid DE, or the most likely choice, they could select a Tackle to help solidify their line in the short run and take over for the aging Walter Jones in the long run.
In the second round, they will probably be looking for either a solid WR such as Kenny Britt, a D-lineman such as Tennessee's Robert Ayers, or a RB if Knowshon Moreno, LeSean McCoy, or Donald Brown falls to them.
The Seahawks have 8 more selections after the second round (3/68, 4/105, 5/137, 6/178, 7/213, 7/245, 7/247, and 7/248). In the 3rd and 4th rounds, look for them to draft an OLB and a high potential QB (hello Rhett Bomar), then they will finish out their draft with a DT, cornerback, and maybe a really quick reciever who they can plug in as a kick returner in the mean time.
THE PICK: Eugene Monroe, OT-Virginia
This year, Matt Hasselbeck, the most important player for the Hawks and his balky back should be back close to 100% and he has a new reciever to throw to in TJ Houshmandzadeh who should replace all the priduction and then some of oft-injured Bobby Engram who is now a member of the Chiefs. Walter Jones is still a large (slight pun intended) question mark due to his microfracture surgery, and much of the Seahawks success will depend on how well that knee holds up over the course of the season.
Now on to the draft. The Seahawks, like many teams, could go any number of directions with this pick. They could go for a QB to groom and eventually replace Hasselbeck, they could go WR to improve its recieving corps, they could try to bolster their pass rush with a solid DE, or the most likely choice, they could select a Tackle to help solidify their line in the short run and take over for the aging Walter Jones in the long run.
In the second round, they will probably be looking for either a solid WR such as Kenny Britt, a D-lineman such as Tennessee's Robert Ayers, or a RB if Knowshon Moreno, LeSean McCoy, or Donald Brown falls to them.
The Seahawks have 8 more selections after the second round (3/68, 4/105, 5/137, 6/178, 7/213, 7/245, 7/247, and 7/248). In the 3rd and 4th rounds, look for them to draft an OLB and a high potential QB (hello Rhett Bomar), then they will finish out their draft with a DT, cornerback, and maybe a really quick reciever who they can plug in as a kick returner in the mean time.
THE PICK: Eugene Monroe, OT-Virginia
NFL Draft-Chiefs
The Chiefs are quietly building something...well mediocre I guess. They've added a good to potentially great QB in Matt Cassel, have a solid #2 RB in Jamaal Charles, one of the best young wideouts in Dwayne Bowe, and players like Tony Gonzalez, Derrick Johnson, and a bevy of talent from last years draft.
Still, the Chiefs are not with out their holes (O-Line, D-Line, another WR, and the safety spots) and they could use some depth at other positions (RB, TE, LB).
With the 3rd overall pick, the Chiefs could go in a few directions. They could draft a LT like Jason Smith if he falls or Eugene Monroe, they could surprise everyone and pick the uber-talented Michael Crabtree to play alongside Dwayne Bowe, or they could pick the best overall defensive player in Aaron Curry. Personally, I would draft Crabtree to give Cassel two legit targets he can throw to for many years to come, but in the end I think the pick will be Curry and there is no shame in that. He and fellow OLB Derrick Johnson will form one of the best OLB tandems in the NFL from the get-go.
The Chiefs dont have a 2nd round pick due to the trade with NE for QB Matt Cassel, who should play a fair amount better than any 2nd rounder they could have picked anyway, so instead they will have to make due with picks 3/67, 4/102, 5/139, 6/175, 7/212 and 7/256. They will be looking to heavily upgrade their offensive line and find a defensive lineman who can really get to the quarterback with these picks, and I also think they will try to find a RB who can split time with Jamaal Charles so they can kick malcontent Larry Johnson out of town. A player like Iowa's Shonne Green comes to mind in Round 3...
THE PICK: Aaron Curry-OLB, Wake Forest
Still, the Chiefs are not with out their holes (O-Line, D-Line, another WR, and the safety spots) and they could use some depth at other positions (RB, TE, LB).
With the 3rd overall pick, the Chiefs could go in a few directions. They could draft a LT like Jason Smith if he falls or Eugene Monroe, they could surprise everyone and pick the uber-talented Michael Crabtree to play alongside Dwayne Bowe, or they could pick the best overall defensive player in Aaron Curry. Personally, I would draft Crabtree to give Cassel two legit targets he can throw to for many years to come, but in the end I think the pick will be Curry and there is no shame in that. He and fellow OLB Derrick Johnson will form one of the best OLB tandems in the NFL from the get-go.
The Chiefs dont have a 2nd round pick due to the trade with NE for QB Matt Cassel, who should play a fair amount better than any 2nd rounder they could have picked anyway, so instead they will have to make due with picks 3/67, 4/102, 5/139, 6/175, 7/212 and 7/256. They will be looking to heavily upgrade their offensive line and find a defensive lineman who can really get to the quarterback with these picks, and I also think they will try to find a RB who can split time with Jamaal Charles so they can kick malcontent Larry Johnson out of town. A player like Iowa's Shonne Green comes to mind in Round 3...
THE PICK: Aaron Curry-OLB, Wake Forest
Thursday, April 9, 2009
NFL Draft-Lions
Ah Detroit...where should we start with you?
You have no Quarterback
You only have 1 reliable reciever
You have no offensive line
You have no Tight Ends
Your D-Line is terrible
Your Linebackers are just as bad
You don't have a return threat
And...you released the player you traded one of the best DTs in the game for (Leigh Bodden) and now you hardly have a secondary.
They do however have a (very) small group of youngs players that they can build around in RB-Kevin Smith(22), WR-Calvin Johnson (23), OT-Gosder Cherilus (24), and LB-Ernie Sims (24). Everyone else on the team, in my opinion, is expendable. Also, they have signed a handful of mediocre free agents, including DT Grady Jackson-who is far past his prime, and LB Julian Peterson who is also on the downside of his career.
In the draft with the 1st overall pick, expect the Lions to take Georgia product Matthew Stafford. I'm not sold on him, but barring some unforeseen circumstances he will be the pick.
With their 2nd pick, the 20th overall selection, look for the Lions to draft either an offensive or defensive tackle or conerback-players like Michael Oher, Eben Britton, Peria Jerry, and Vontae Davis are likely choices.
The first pick of the 2nd round, the Lions will probably be looking at those same positions minus the one they drafted and MLB too. James Laurinaitis, Michael Johnson, and William Beatty are possibilities.
From their on out, the Lions have 8 more draft picks (65, 82, 101, 137, 174, 192, 210, and 255). For each of those picks, I see them picking either a very versatile player who can backup multiple spots, or simply the best available player regardless of position seeing how they have so many holes to fill.
Tomorrow I'll post my view on what the Rams should do and will give my top 5 players by position for the draft plus possible sleepers and busts.
THE PICK(s): 1/1: Matthew Stafford-QB, Georgia 1/20: Michael Oher-OT, Ole Miss
You have no Quarterback
You only have 1 reliable reciever
You have no offensive line
You have no Tight Ends
Your D-Line is terrible
Your Linebackers are just as bad
You don't have a return threat
And...you released the player you traded one of the best DTs in the game for (Leigh Bodden) and now you hardly have a secondary.
They do however have a (very) small group of youngs players that they can build around in RB-Kevin Smith(22), WR-Calvin Johnson (23), OT-Gosder Cherilus (24), and LB-Ernie Sims (24). Everyone else on the team, in my opinion, is expendable. Also, they have signed a handful of mediocre free agents, including DT Grady Jackson-who is far past his prime, and LB Julian Peterson who is also on the downside of his career.
In the draft with the 1st overall pick, expect the Lions to take Georgia product Matthew Stafford. I'm not sold on him, but barring some unforeseen circumstances he will be the pick.
With their 2nd pick, the 20th overall selection, look for the Lions to draft either an offensive or defensive tackle or conerback-players like Michael Oher, Eben Britton, Peria Jerry, and Vontae Davis are likely choices.
The first pick of the 2nd round, the Lions will probably be looking at those same positions minus the one they drafted and MLB too. James Laurinaitis, Michael Johnson, and William Beatty are possibilities.
From their on out, the Lions have 8 more draft picks (65, 82, 101, 137, 174, 192, 210, and 255). For each of those picks, I see them picking either a very versatile player who can backup multiple spots, or simply the best available player regardless of position seeing how they have so many holes to fill.
Tomorrow I'll post my view on what the Rams should do and will give my top 5 players by position for the draft plus possible sleepers and busts.
THE PICK(s): 1/1: Matthew Stafford-QB, Georgia 1/20: Michael Oher-OT, Ole Miss
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