Saturday, April 24, 2010

Live Blog: NFL Draft Day 3

Friday, April 23, 2010

Live Blog: NFL Draft Day 2

Thursday, April 22, 2010

2010 NFL Draft: Day 1

LIVE NFL Draft Blog!

The live blog will start at around 5:30-5:45pm CST for fun pre-draft banter and what not. It will be exactly the same as last year, where you just click on the Live Blog button and it launches on your computer.

I don't know what version of IE you will need, and I have no idea if this works over Foxfire or Chrome. I have a recent version of IE and it works fine, so you should be safe if you get to the sitge with that.

Speak to you all soon!

Mock Draft- 3rd round, picks 82-98

82. Pittsburgh Steelers- Taylor Price, WR, Ohio

Price is another late riser who looked very good at the Senior Bowl in practices and in the game. He’s tall and has very good long speed. On the plus side, he’s a solid character player, so he comes in as the hopeful replacement for Santonio Holmes. It wouldn’t be surprising to see Pittsburgh reach out for West Virginia OT Selvish Capers either.

83. Atlanta Falcons- Dorin Dickerson, TE, Pittsburgh

After the unreal Combine performance that Dickerson put up, I don’t think he slips any further than this. I think Dennis Pitta is a more refined product at this point of their careers, but Dickerson has a much higher ceiling. Dickerson is a bulked up WR, and I actually think he can still play this position to create mismatches with smaller corners. He ultimately will fit into the TE position, and he gets to learn under perhaps the greatest to ever play the position in Tony Gonzales.

84. Cincinnati Bengals- Dezmon Briscoe, WR, Kansas

Briscoe is a guy who I loved and hated. At times he looked like the big 6ft+ WR who could be a great perimeter guy at the next level, and at other times he looked pedestrian trying to break away from coverage. I think he’s worth the gamble at this point based on what he can potentially do. He can serve as an understudy to Ochocinco, and he may eventually develop into one of their top two receivers. If Briscoe is not the pick, don’t be surprised to see Jordan Shipley go here as he could make a more immediate impact than Briscoe in the slot and in the return game.

85. Cleveland Browns- Dennis Pitta, TE, BYU

Pitta would be an ideal fit for a West Coast offense, and this is the perfect fit for him. He did not block much, and not very well when he did block, but he showed the strength to do so at the combine by benching the most for the TEs. Pitta has some of the best hands I have seen on a TE, and he will be used a lot like Dallas Clark is used for the Colts. He will end up being Colt McCoy’s future go-to receiver when the pressure is on. And that’s when Pitta really makes plays. He understands zone coverage very well, and knows how to sit down, make the catch, and move the chains.

86. Green Bay Packers- Jared Veldheer, OT, Hillsdale

Veldheer impressed me with his athleticism at the Combine, so even though I have not seen any game film on him, I have him go here based on his athletic ability. He has the size and feet to play either tackle spot, and this is a value pick for Ted Thompson. Veldheer doesn’t need to play this year or even next year, so he has time to fully develop under NFL coaching. I think that’s the best thing that can happen to Veldheer as he has the potential, the frame, and the athleticism to eventually be a starter.

87. Philadelphia Eagles- Selvish Capers, OT, West Virginia

Once again, Andy Reid will not walk away from the first three rounds without at least two offensive linemen. The Eagles could use a backup tackle, and Selvish is an athletic guy that is still very raw. He has decent feet, and may be able to move to the left side eventually, but at worst he can provide a primary back up on the right side. The Eagles are one of the best in the business at developing offensive lineman, so this is as good of a place to go as Capers could hope.

88. Arizona Cardinals- Brandon Ghee, CB, Wake Forest

I actually like Jerome Murphy more than Ghee, but Murphy is a better fit in a Cover-2defense, so Ghee is the pick here. Ghee has impressive catch up speed, but he has to use it too often. He won’t be asked to come in and start next to DRC, he can play the nickel and use his speed on special teams. It’s a nice value and need pick.

89. Arizona Cardinals- Ed Dickson, TE, Oregon

The Cardinals have not had a true receiving threat at the TE position, and Dickson can step right in and start as a rookie. Dickson is a liability as a blocker, but he won’t need to do that in this offense. He’s a short to intermediate threat who can help bail out Leinart if he gets into trouble. Dickson probably would have went earlier in any other draft, but this one was stocked with quality TEs, so the Cardinals benefit.

90. Dallas Cowboys- Jordan Shipley, WR, Texas

Shipley gets to stay home with Cowboys, and this is about as good of a fit as he could hope for. Shipley can help the Cowboys right away as a slot receiver, and this is a spot where the Cowboys really don’t have a solid player. He can also return kicks and punts now that Felix Jones will take more responsibility in the offense, and I think Shipley is the best return man in this draft. To get him in the late third is a great value.

91. San Diego Chargers- Donovan Warren, CB, Michigan

Warren really slid because he did not run the optimal 40 time you’d like for a corner. That won’t matter for the Chargers as they like physical ball hawking corners in the nickel, and Warren fits that very well. Antoine Cason was similar to Warren, but definitely more talented, and he now moves to the outside to replace Antonio Cromartie. I wouldn’t be surprised if the Chargers went with Mike Neal of Purdue to fit as a five-technique, or Reshad Jones of Georgia at Safety, but Warren is just too good of a value to pass up.

92. Cleveland Browns- Reshad Jones, S, Georgia

Jones is a desperate need pick at this point as safety is a huge need for the Browns, and it would not surprise me one bit to see them attack this position even earlier than this. Jones is a solid pick, who should have come back to work on his instincts as a Senior, but he makes a very good value late in the third. I don’t know if he’s ready to start right away, but he may have to for this defense. Danimal, if you are wondering who else may fit here in my opinion, I think Joe McKnight may be the guy (but I didn’t have the heart to give the Browns a guy I don’t really like).

93. Minnesota Vikings- Joe McKnight, RB, USC

The Vikings need to add another RB who can fill the shoes of Chester Taylor as a versitle third down back. I’m not saying McKnight is anywhere near Taylor, but he is a good receiver out of the backfield. He’s a decent value here at a position of need and fit for the team. This would also be the first place where I’d consider Tim Tebow, but this is a team with Super Bowl aspirations while Favre is still playing, so the future can wait as this team needs people who can help them meet that goal now.

94. Indianapolis Colts- Pat Angerer, MLB, Iowa

Angerer is a great fit for this Cover-2 defense as he can get deep and cover, and he’s the typical tough-guy player the Colts love. Angerer won’t have to start, but he’s a solid back up to Gary Brackett in the middle and even has some ability to move to the outside and potentially contribute at the SLB spot as well. He will play special teams and will be very good as well. I almost grabbed Tony Pike as the long term project to replace Peyton Manning, but Manning has a good 6-8 years, so they are better off taking a player who can help them.

95. New Orleans Saints- Mike Neal, DT, Purdue

Neal is a true undertackle who uses very good strength to hold the point, and quickness to rush the passer. Neal is a very good fit next to Sedrick Ellis, who has quickly developed more into a 4-3 NT prospect than a quick and penetrating undertackle like I thought he would. The Saints once again have the luxury to pick who fits their needs. If Neal isn’t the pick, I could also see Pike go here as a long term replacement for Brees.

96. Cincinnati Bengals- Tony Pike, QB, Cincinnati

I know, Carson Palmer isn’t that old, but who’s behind him on the bench? Yeah, his brother, Jordan. I don’t trust him to take the reigns of the first team offense should Palmer get hurt again. Pike is insurance, and with compensatory picks, you take players like this as they are almost like found money. Pike needs to get stronger and put some size on, but he is the prototypical pocket passer with good enough accuracy. He won’t have to play unless something happens, and that’s how it should be.

97. Tennessee Titans- Brandon Lang, DE, Troy

Lang will benefit from the recent alumni at his position from Troy (Umenyiori and Ware), but he’s not quite on that level. Lang still has good pass rush ability, and the Titans like to rotate players in along the DL. Lang will fit right into that spot, and will primarily play in passing situations so he can play to his strengths.

98. Atlanta Falcons- Matt Tennant, OC, Boston College

Those of you who laugh at me for this pick, go ahead. In three years, Tennant will be a better center than Pouncey will. Yes, this is a VERY bold prediction but I’m willing to stick to it. I think he goes here because no one else seems to like him as much as I do. The Falcons know him very well considering they saw him play when scouting Matt Ryan. Tennant fits a big need for this team, and I think he will be playing sooner than later. I will either fall on my face with this prediction, or I will boldly go where no one else is right now (except the NFL Network’s Pat Kirwin, who I obviously like an awful lot!).

Mock Draft- 3rd round, picks 65-81

65. St. Louis Rams- Eric Decker, WR Minnesota

If Decker had not hurt his foot earlier in the season, I think he’s a high second rounder with some conversation that he slips into the end of the first. But he did hurt his foot, and that is an issue for a skill position player like a WR. Even considering the foot injury, I would jump all over Decker if he’s available here in the third. The Rams have some undersized WRs and Decker is a good compliment as a bigger outside receiver. If his foot is healed, I think Decker is one of those rare guys who will make an impact as a WR within the first three years of his career.

66. Detroit Lions- Sean Lee, LB, Penn State

I personally think that Lee is a better fit inside, but in Jim Schwartz’s defense, Lee can fit at the weakside LB position now that Ernie Sims has been traded. Lee might not be as fast as Sims was, but he doesn’t need to be, he’s bigger and stronger at the point. He should have a shot to start in his rookie year as well, and he’s a very good value here in the third round.

67. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Ricky Sapp, DE, Clemson

Sapp might be a better fit as a 3-4 OLB, but with the Bucs getting back to their old Tampa-2 roots, Sapp is a good fit as quicker and smaller defensive end. Ricky Sapp can get after the passer, and that’s what this defense needs. With McCoy and Sapp, this defensive line is quickly moving back into relevance.

68. Kansas City Chiefs- Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida

I think you know by now that I’m not a big fan of pikes because I just don’t think he has the athleticism to hold up in the NFL. But if he is going to make it, being in a 3-4 will be his best option as he will have someone next to him to help cover up his lack of athleticism. What Spikes does bring is size and physical strength over the middle, which is something this defense actually could use.

69. Oakland Raiders- Zane Beadles, OT/OG, Utah

I’m a big fan of Beadles, although this season somewhat tempered my enthusiasm from last year. While I don’t think that Beadles can play LT, I do think he can play RT and OG. In this zone blocking style of offense, Beadles fits very well, and he should fight right away for the starting spot at right tackle or right guard. This is a great value pick.

70. Philadelphia Eagles- Montario Hardesty, RB, Tennessee

Hardesty is a late riser who had a very good Senior season after having some injury problems earlier in his college season. He’s an ideal compliment to LeSean McCoy, the Eagles second rounder from last year. Hardesty is a between the tackles runner that has enough speed to break long runs to the outside. He will be the finisher for this team late in the third and fourth quarters after McCoy has gotten them up on the scoreboard. A big WR like Brandon LaFell would also make good sense here, but I think RB is a better fit for value and need at this point.

71. Cleveland Browns- Alex Carrington, DE, Arkansas State

This is a name not many will be familiar with, but if you watched the Senior Bowl game and practices, you will know who Carrington is. He’s a very big 4-3 DE who will fit right in as a five-technique in this defense. Carrington impressed me when he put Zane Beadles completely on his back with a power bull rush and shove. He will make his way into the starting lineup sooner than later, and I think he’s going to be a steal this late. It’s not a sexy pick like say TE Aaron Hernandez or OLB Thaddeus Gibson, but it’s a smart pick.

72. Buffalo Bills- Aaron Hernandez, TE, Florida

Hernandez is not my favorite player because he’s strictly a receiving weapon, but it’s the right move for the Bills. Buffalo just lacks playmakers on offense, and Hernandez can help open up the passing game. I really liked the move they made last year for Shawn Nelson, but he’s the inline TE that can be used in tandem with Hernandez potentially split out. I could see a WR like Mardy Gilyard being a solid value pick as well, but I just think Hernandez is a bit more versatile.

73. Miami Dolphins- Linval Joseph, NT, East Carolina

Linval Joseph is now officially the hottest name over the past week. Someone apparently told Todd McShay and Mel Kiper that he’s the next great NT prospect. As I have said before, always be weary of the player that makes a giant move up mock drafts in the last week or so preceding the draft. It’s all smoke screens. Joseph has value and has played the 3-4 nose position in college, but this is where he belongs as far as his actual value. The Dolphins desperately need a future replacement for Jason Ferguson, and Joseph is the perfect fit.

74. Jacksonville Jaguars- Mardy Gilyard, WR, Cincinnati

I had a very hard time choosing between SS Larry Asante, Iowa CB Amari Spievey, and a WR like Gilyard or Brandon LaFell. While the defense does need more help, I think that passing on Gilyard would be a mistake, so I don’t let that happen. Gilayard gets away from the Jags recent love of tall, big, and fast perimeter receivers. He will be a starter in the slot for them and can make an immediate impact in the return game as well.

75. Chicago Bears- Amari Spievey, CB, Iowa

Boy, I was almost scared to make this pick as it was so long in the making. And I hope that doesn’t happen to Jerry and crew as they wait until late in the second day to finally make this move. To be honest, I would not be surprised to see them move down some and add more picks in either this round or the next. If they stay here, the choices left on the board have to be corner or safety, as the OL left just aren’t what the Bears need (trust me, it’s the one position I know well and I’d go DB here for sure). Spievey is a very good fit for this defense. He’s extremely aggressive and likes to play on the line and be physical with wideouts. He has the size you look for in an ideal Cover-2 corner as well, so I cannot argue with this pick. It also allows the luxury to move Peanut Tillman to FS if you really wanted to do so. I think that they should keep Tillman where he is and hope they can address the safety position later as well, so they build depth and add talent at both positions (which are probably the two biggest needs). If this is not exciting enough to all of my fellow Bears fan friends, I apologize, but I’m drafting with my brain and not my heart. I could see Larry Asante being the pick here as well, even though he’s a SS and we really need a FS. I wouldn’t argue with a FS like Morgan Burnett of Georgia Tech or Kam Chancellor of Virginia Tech. If they go with a big WR like Brandon LaFell, I will scream and break things, even though he’d be a good fit with our otherwise midget crew of receivers.

76. New York Giants- Arthur Jones, DT, Syracuse

The Giants defense revolves around pressure from the DL. Jones is a very good pass rushing interior player and is an outstanding athlete as well. Defensive tackle may not be the biggest need for this team, but this is a better value to me than reaching for a corner that might not fit this defense well (like Javier Arenas). I could definitely see Asante going here as insurance in case Kenny Phillips does not come back healthy

77. Tennessee Titans- Javier Arenas, CB, Alabama

I still question Arenas’ ability to cover solo on an island, but I think the Titans will use him as a nickel corner in the slot, which is where his strength is. The biggest reasont o take Arenas here is his ability to return punts. He can be an immediate contributor in this phase for the Titans, and I expect him to be a very good punt returner right away.

78. Carolina Panthers- Brandon LaFell, WR, LSU

As I said in the second round, the Panthers need DL and WR help, and they’ve addressed both in the past two rounds. If you would have told me at the beginning of the year that LaFell would fall this far in the draft, I would have laughed at you. But as the season wore on and I saw LaFell play more, he seemed too big and a bit disinterested. I think if the Panthers can motivate him, he can be that secondary threat that this team has not had since Moose Mohammed was actually considered a Pro Bowl caliber player. Now, I don’t know if I would say LaFell can play at that high of a level, but he should make the compliment receiver that the Panthers have not had in years.

79. San Francisco 49ers- Eric Norwood, OLB, South Carolina

The 49ers have been missing the big play sack artist the past few years, ever since they moved to the 3-4 defense. I’m a bit surprised I had Norwood falling this far, but my concerns over his ability to cover are real, so this means he makes a spectacular value this late in the draft. He won’t be asked to cover, he’s going to turned loose and allowed to attack the passer and make plays. This is when Norwood is at his best, and I think that if used right, he could be a 10+ sack a year guy at this position.

80. Denver Broncos- Thaddeus Gibson, OLB, Ohio State

If you read the evals, I’m not a big fan of Gibson as a player ready to contribute. What he is though is a phenomenal athlete with a great size/speed/strength ratio. He will be best fit here in a 3-4 defense as a rush OLB, and he will be given a bit of time to develop as a situational pass rusher in his first few years. It’s easy to compare him to first round flop and former teammate Vernon Gholstan, but the difference is there are no expectations on busting when you are a third round pick. It’s a good fit for the Broncos and should give them some juice in the pass rush.

81. Houston Texans- Larry Asante, S, Nebraska

I know I have been saying Asante is best fit at SS, but I think the Texans will start him out as a FS. They already have a heavy hitting in-the-box safety in Bernard Pollard, so that’s why I think that Asante will be asked to play deep. Asante played FS at Nebraska, so it’s nothing new, but I just don’t know if he has the deep coverage skills. I think he can still start and be better than what the Texans already have at the position.

Mock Draft- 2nd round, picks 49-64

49. San Francisco 49ers- Patrick Robinson, CB, Florida State

The 49ers need to come away from the first two rounds with a RT and a CB, and with Robinson sliding, they can make that happen. Robinson may have the best natural skills of any corner in this draft, but he just lacks consistency in putting it all together (which is why he slides this far). If Robinson is actually here, it’s a no brainer as he can be an immediate starter. If he’s not here, then the pick will more than likely come down to ILB Sean Lee or OLB Koa Misi.

50. Kansas City Chiefs- Koa Misi, OLB, Utah

I’m a huge fan of Misi’s and I was very surprised this year that I hadn’t heard anything about him previouslty, nor did I remember him from watching the Utes play the previous two seasons. Kansas City is still a team in transition to the 3-4 defense, and Misi can help move that transition along quicker. He played a hybrid DE/OLB position at Utah, so he will have a very small learning curve, and will have a very good mentor in Mike Vrabel. I think Misi will eventually be a Pro Bowler.

51. Houston Texans- Ben Tate, RB, Auburn

After Spiller, Mathews, and Best, it’s a matter of what flavor of RB you like for who goes next. I really like Tate a lot as he has a very good blend of size and interior running skills, but also has the long speed to hit the home run on the outside. He’s not a playmaker in the same vein as Spiller or Best, but he’s more like Mathews in that he consistently chews up positive yards. He’ll make a nice compliment back to Steve Slaton.

52. Pittsburgh Steelers- Chris Cook, CB, Virginia

I really like Oklahoma State’s Perrish Cox, but with some off the field character issues, this is the last team that will be taking that risk. Cook is a cleaner player off the field, and he fits the mold of physical corners that this team likes. Cook is very tall, but is very smooth turning and running with the receiver. Cook won’t have to start right away, but with the questionable play last year from this team’s current starters, it would not surprise me if Cook was in the starting lineup come week one.

53. New England Patriots- Dexter McCluster, RB/WR, Ole Miss

This move makes so much sense on so many levels. The Patriots have used Kevin Faulk as an undersized third down back as successfully as a team could. The problem now is that Faulk is getting up in age and really only has a season or two left at the very most. In comes McCluster, who is even smaller than Faulk, but can fit that same slash role as a runner and underneath receiving option. McCluster is an offensive weapon, and his size won’t be that much of an issue at the next level as I don’t see any team that drafts him using him every down. He’s a change of pace guy who can really make big plays, and this is a team that has the luxury to take a player like this in the second round.

54. Cincinnati Bengals- Chad Jones, FS, LSU

Jones was a centerfielder on the LSU Tigers baseball team, and he plays like one on the football field. Jones is at his best playing deep over the middle of the field, and he’s also great at tracking the ball in the air. Jones doesn’t have ideal size or speed, but he is just always around the ball and makes plays. The Bengals have some guys who can play in the box as physical SS’s, but they are lacking that deep coverage playmaker, and Jones brings that. If not, I could see the Bengals going for a DE like Clemson’s Ricky Sapp, Arkansas State’s Alex Carrington, or Northwestern’s Corey Wooton.

55. Philadelphia Eagles- Major Wright, FS, Florida

Wright is still a little bit raw, but he’s the perfect blend of speed and power that will fit this defense well. The Eagles really struggled without Brian Dawkins last year, and I think that Wright is one of the few guys who can really fill that same role here. He’s got some of the best closing speed I saw on tape, and he showed the ability to blitz. That’s critical in this defense as they require the FS to come up hard and either attack the LOS, or get back into coverage quickly. Wright can do that for them.

56. Green Bay Packers- Perrish Cox, CB, Oklahoma State

The Packers like bigger and physical corners who can press receivers at the line. Cox is one of the better press-man cover corners I saw this year, so the fit/need/value make sense. If Al Harris is not fully healed, Cox will push to get time right away. If Harris is healthy, the Packers have time to let Cox develop. He’s a great value here, but I’m also not surprised to see him slip due to the fact that he angered his college coach enough that he not only suspended him for the bowl game but also did not let him work out at their Pro Day.

57. Baltimore Ravens- Anthony McCoy, TE, USC

I had a very tough time here with two extremely talented players that have slipped a lot further than I would have thought earlier in the year: McCoy and Penn State LB Navorro Bowman. Bowman is the perfect LB for this team. He’s athletic, versatile, and exactly what this team likes in that position. But I chose the bigger need in TE with McCoy. Anthony McCoy is sliding as we draw near draft day due to testing positive for marijuana at the Combine. While that’s not good, it’s not a death sentence either, and it would never preclude me from taking a lesser talent before him. McCoy will be the heir apparent to Todd Heap, and I think he’s going to be a very successful NFL TE. He’s the best blocking TE of the so called top shelf group (the guys who will go in the first three rounds). I wouldn’t be surprised to see Bowman’s name called either though.

58. Arizona Cardinals- Navorro Bowman, LB, Penn State

Bowman has slid some as we have neared draft day due to some concerns about off the field issues he had while at Penn State. So while he has slipped here, and it would make sense due to this issue, I think he may very well go a lot higher than this due to his on the field talent. Bowman is a great fit here as a replacement for Karlos Dansby. Yes, Bowman played OLB at Penn State, but so did Dansby at Auburn. Bowman is athletic enough to make the move and he will make plays on the inside as well. He can blitz, he can cover, and he can tackle well. He’s a very good overall LB prospect that can realistically play any spot at the position.

59. Dallas Cowboys- Vlad Ducasse, OT/OG, Umass

This is a pick that I don’t truly believe in, but I think it’s the way the Cowboys would go. The Cowboys need someone who can play RT or OG, and Dallas likes big guys. There is no question that Ducasse has a very bright future, but I’m concerned as what I saw of him at the Senior Bowl showed me he has along ways to go before he really understand how to play the position at the next level. He can be taught this, but I’m concerned that he will be pressed into action too soon if he does go here. I’d prefer John Jerry of Ole Miss as he has played RT and can definitely play LG. But when has Jerry Jones made a pick that really makes sense?

60. Seattle Seahawks- Damian Williams, WR, USC

Williams is reunited with his college coach in Pete Carroll, and this is a move that actually makes sense as well. The Seahawks need some young talent at the receiver position, and Williams can contribute right away in the slot. I think eventually he can move to the outside and replace Houshmenzadeh, and he’s the perfect mentor for Williams as they share a lot of the same qualities. I could also see Seattle making the move for a RB like Montario Hardesty here as well.

61. New York Jets- Corey Wooten, DE, Northwestern

The Jets don’t really have a huge need here, and I could see them going in many directions. A rush OLB like Ricky Sapp of Clemson or Thaddeus Gibson of Ohio State could very well be the pick. I just get the feeling that DE is the pick here though, and this pick will come down between Alex Carrington and Corey Wooten. I chose Wooten for a several reasons, most of which is that I remember how good he was prior to his knee injury. I think that we will see more of that ability this year after he gets a full year under his belt post-surgery. He’s a very good fit at the five-technique as he has the length and size to hold the point, but also has some juice to get to the passer. Want another silly reason why this may be the pick? Wooten originally hails from New Jersey.

62. Minnesota Vikings- Dominique Franks, CB, Oklahoma

I think the Vikings get a steal here in Franks, who definitely could have pushed his way into the first round had he come back for his Senior year. I think that Franks is the forgotten man in this year’s corner class as he played on a defense loaded with talent. Franks can hold his own on an island, and this is a perfect fit for his style of play. With Cedric Griffen getting hurt in the NFC championship game last season, Franks will have the chance to play sooner rather than later.

63. Indianapolis Colts- John Jerry, OG, Ole Miss

I’m a bigger fan of Jerry than most other draft experts. I think he can play RT at the next level, but he won’t need to for this team. Jerry fits the mold of bigger OL that the Colts have publicly said they want to move toward. Jerry can come right in and fight for one of the two guard positions, and I think by the end of training camp, he will be the starter at LG.

64. New Orleans Saints- Daryl Washington, OLB, TCU

Washington is a great value here, and it allows the Saints to get younger and much more athletic at the OLB position. Washington played inside at TCU, but he doesn’t have the size or strength to hold up on the inside in the NFL. He does however have the elite speed and quickness to make an impact on the outside. With Scott Fujita leaving for the Browns, Washington provides a better and younger athlete that this defense needed on the outside. The strong get stronger.

Mock Draft- 2nd round, picks 33-48

33. St. Louis Rams- Lamarr Houston, DT, Texas

The Rams have a very enviable place to be in here, as all teams will have the night to sit and propose trades to move up for the player that slipped from the first round. In fact, I think because of the new draft format, we will see an incredible amount of movement in the second round as far as trades. Before the trade last night of Adam Carriker to the Redskins, I had the Rams taking a corner here. The funny thing is, before I even started this I had a feeling Houston was the pick all along. I like Lamarr Houston more than most others do, and I think he will make a big impact on this defense. Steve Spagnuolo likes to win on defense by pressuring the QB up front. Houston is a classic three-technique that can penetrate quickly into the backfield and really wreck havoc. I think he’s a starter from day one and he makes an impact on the interior of this DL.

34. Detroit Lions- Jahvid Best, RB, California

The Lions really need a home run threat in the backfield to couple with Calvin Johnson, and Best is a great fit. Kevin Smith is not the workhorse back the Lions expected him to be, but he can make a fine between the tackles compliment to Best’s perimeter speed. I really like Best, but I’m definitely scared off by his injury history. I’m not too scared to take him in the second round though, and this is an excellent fit for value plus need. I could see the Lions taking a stab at Taylor Mays to play SS, but I just think Best is a better player overall.

35. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Taylor Mays, SS, USC

This is a lot later than most other mock drafts will have Mays going, but I’m very concerned with his ability to play in coverage. The Bucs can minimize this with by playing him closer to the line of scrimmage at the SS position. The Bucs already have a decent FS in Tenard Jackson, so getting Mays as an intimidating physical presence over the middle is a good fit. A playmaking WR like Arrelious Benn or Demaryius Thomas are tough to pass on, but the Bucs pick again in seven spots thanks to the Bears, so they can fill this spot or the DE spot then when the value is a bit better. A corner like Kareem Jackson could be Ronde Barber’s long term replacement, but again this is a spot that can be filled later this round or in the third.

36. Kansas City Chiefs- Demaryius Thomas, WR, Georgia Tech

Thomas is player rising fast come draft time, and you will see plenty of mock drafts that have him going in the first round. I’m not quite as high on Thomas for several reasons. First off, the fact that he injured his foot and is coming off of surgery scares me. For skill position players, this is something that could really come back to haunt him throughout his career. Second, he played in an option style offense where he ran limited routes. Yes, he does show the speed and ability to hit the home run, but how much of that was based on the fact that teams were loading up to stuff the option rushing attack and how much was it Thomas’ abilities? He has the size/speed ratio you want in a starting NFL caliber receiver, but to me this is the perfect spot for him. The Chiefs need offensive weapons, and they are still rebuilding, so he doesn’t necessarily have to play right away. It’s a pick more for upside and potential three years down the road than it is for impact now. I could definitely see the Chiefs grabbing a LB or a TE like Rob Gronkowski as well, but the depth is better at those positions than it is at WR.

37. Philadelphia Eagles- Kareem Jackson, CB, Alabama

Jackson is the physical style of corner this team desperately needs right now. I’m not sure he will last this long, but if he does, the Eagles will not wait to run up to the podium and draft him. He’s a day one starter at a position of need for this team.

38. Cleveland Browns- Colt McCoy, QB, Texas

This pick makes too much sense as well, and I could realistically see the Browns trading some other picks to move up a bit to ensure they get McCoy. This team will eventually run a version of the West Coast offense with Mike Holmgren calling the shots in the front office, and McCoy is absolutely perfect for this style of offense. He’s a good leader, he’s accurate, and he can make plays on the run when needed. His size and arm strength are an issue, but not enough of an issue in the right style of offense. McCoy doesn’t have to start right away with Wallace and Delhomme there, which is probably the best thing overall. It’s a solid way to help this team build for the future since I think they are another year or so away from turning this thing around and rebuilding the roster.

39. Oakland Raiders- Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida

As you will know from my player evals, I’m not a big fan of Dunlap, and I think he’s the biggest ‘boom or bust’ player in this draft. His physical skills and athleticism are unquestionable, but his effort and character are my big concerns. This is the team of all-star athletes though with Al Davis calling the shots, so this move makes so much sense on many levels. He will be given every chance to succeed here, so he can either prove me wrong or prove me right and join the other ‘all gym shorts team’ players that Al has drafted in the past few years.

40. San Diego Chargers- Cam Thomas, NT, North Carolina

I’m a big fan of Thomas and I think he can make an immediate impact as the NT for this team. There are some good players that will be hard for AJ Smith to pass on, like Bruce Campbell and Devin McCourty, but NT is the single biggest need for this team and Thomas is tailor made for the position. If for some reason the Bolts go with Terrance Cody in the first round, then expect this pick to be a RB like Ben Tate or Montarrio Hardesty.

41. Buffalo Bills- Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland

Campbell ideally needs some time on the bench to really learn some finer points of OL technique, but he won’t be afforded that luxury with the Bills. Buffalo has to come out of the first two rounds with an OT or they can enjoy another season of mediocrity. Campbell is a freak athlete who is already very good in the run game, but he just needs time to get consistent. He will learn on the job here, which for the long term success of this franchise may be their only option. If the Bills did manage to get a LT in the first round, then don’t be surprised to hear the name Linval Joseph called in the second. He’s a NT prospect on the rise.

42. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois

This is a tough pick for me as I really like Devin McCourty and Benn, but I think the Bucs can get a better value at CB in the third than they can at WR. With a new DT and SS already added to a young and improving defense, Benn can be gleaned as the future go-to receiver for young franchise QB Josh Freeman. If Benn can stay healthy, I think he will have a better pro career than a college career due to the fact that he will at least get consistent play from the QB position.

43. Denver Broncos- Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame

Tate is a very good fit in Josh McDaniels offense as a primary slot receiver. Yes, a big perimeter WR to replace the departed Brandon Marshall would be better, but Tate is the high character kind of player that McDaniels wants to start stocking his roster with. It doesn’t hurt that Tate played in an offense similar to this under Charlie Weis. Devin McCourty could very well be the long term replacement for Champ Bailey, but I think the offensive coach wants to continue to build up his weaponry. I would not be surprised to see Rob Gronkowski be the pick either, as Tony Scheffler was just traded to the Lions.

44. New England Patriots- Rob Gronkowski, TE, Arizona

It would not surprise me to see Gronkowski slip into the first round, but coming off of back surgery, I feel a lot better about his value in the early second. He’s the ideal fit for this team as well. He’s a solid character guy, he can block, and he’s an offensive weapon. He’s probably the most complete TE as he does everything well. To me, he’s a slight notch below Jermaine Gresham because Gresham is a better receiver. Gronkowski is NFL ready though, if fully healthy, and he will make an impact for this offense immediately.

45. Denver Broncos- Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers

I have a hard time believing that McCourty will actually fall this low, but it happens in my mock draft. McCourty’s presence will allow the Broncos to play last year’s second round pick Alphonso Smith inside as a nickel corner, and make this defensive backfield very strong. This is simply a pick of the best player available, which happens to make sense as far as fit.

46. New York Giants- Roger Saffold, OT/OG, Indiana

This may not be the sexiest pick for Giants fans, but it fits the MO of Giants GM Jerry Reese. Saffold is a versatile offensive lineman who can start off as an OG or RT and eventually be the long term replacement for David Diehl at the LT spot. This team needs to continue to build young depth along the OL, so if it’s not Saffold here, I could see the pick being Illini guard Jon Asamoah.

47. New England Patriots- Jon Asamoah, OG, Illinois

Depth across the entire OL is very shallow in this year’s draft, so the Pats will strike early on a true NFL starting caliber guard. Asamoah might not need to start right away, but he could beat out Stephen Neal for the RG position. He also provides insurance should the Pats decide to let Pro Bowl LG Logan Mankins walk instead of offering him an expensive contract extension after this year. A LB like Navarro Bowman would be tempting to provide an athletic, young playmaker next to Jerod Mayo, but this is a position that can be filled later with a player how might actually fit the role better.

48. Carolina Panthers- Tyson Alualu, DE/DT, California

The Panthers desperately need DL and WR help, and they will have some fine players available to them here at both positions. I personally like Alualu better as a 3-4 DE, but I think he is very capable of sliding down to tackle and making an impact with his quickness and strength. It’s possible Carolina could make the move and grab Steve Smith a partner in crime in Damian Williams, but their luck with second round USC receivers has not been great so far. While I think Williams will be better than Dwayne Jarrett has been, I also think WR or TE can be addressed later. DL is a much bigger need, and Alualu will be a very solid addition

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

LIVE DRAFT BLOG- Thursday through Saturday

For those that joined in last year, I will be running the Live Blog for the entire draft once again. All you have to do is go to the website during the draft and you will be able to interact live with me and any of the other loyal Diesel Draft Analysis followers.

Since I am off work on Thursday and Friday, the coverage will go as long as it needs to. Plus, the second through third rounds will be up by tomorrow afternoon, and if I’m feeling saucy I may throw a fourth round in for good measures.

I hope you will all join me for fun, laughs, and Draft Day madness this weekend.

Monday, April 19, 2010

Mock Draft- 1st round, picks 18-32

18. Pittsburgh Steelers- Mike Iupati, OG, Idaho

The Steelers had good luck the last time they drafted a guard near this level of the draft in potential HOF’er Alan Faneca. I would not put Iupati in that category at all, but he’s the physical inside presence this team needs. The Steelers were terrible in short yardage situations last year and Iupati can help them there right away. He’s still raw though, and I’m not as high on him as many other experts are, but it’s tough to argue with picking him here. Once he puts some of the fundamental things together, he can straight up maul people and has the potential to help make their entire OL nastier. Kyle Wilson is a need at CB and a solid draft value to boot, but I just feel the OL is in more need of repair at this point.

19. Atlanta Falcons- Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan

I think this fits very well for need and the type of player that the Falcons seem to draft ever since GM Thomas Dimitroff came on board. Graham is a guy that everyone will nit pick on because he doesn’t have ideal size or speed. But what I have seen out of Graham is that he flat out knows how to get to the QB, and at the end of the day, that’s all that matters at the next level. Jason Pierre-Paul may be the splashier pick, but I’m just not sold on his actual potential. Graham has the higher floor than JPP, and to me that matters with a first rounder as the bust potential is much lower. Sergio Kindle is an excellent pass rusher as well, but I just think he’s better fit in a 3-4. I would not argue with Everson Griffen here either, but if they went for a TE like Jermaine Gresham, I think they may end up missing out on the bigger need in a DE. This is a deep TE class, so that value can be had in the third when they pick next.

20. Houston Texans- Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State

I would think the Texans have to be crossing their fingers and hoping the draft falls to them like this. CB is far and away the most glaring need for this team, and Wilson is not far behind Haden in my book. I think he can come in and immediately make an impact as a starter. It’s too perfect for of value, need, and fit.

21. Cincinnati Bengals- Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma

I was a big fan of Gresham last year, and the knee injury does not scare me off. He’s now realistically had a whole season to get healed and stronger, so he’s going to be ready to make an impact come training camp. Some panned him for not being a better blocker, but I write this off to the system he played in. Look no further than the National Championship game against Florida where he absolutely manhandled DBs like they were kids and he was an adult. He will come right in and be the starter and it allows the team to work with a personal favorite of mine from last year, Chase Coffman, to develop further. These two can make for some very interesting two-TE sets and should create mismatch nightmares for Carson Palmer to take advantage. I could see the Bengals going for the potential in Jason Pierre-Paul, but I’m too scared of his bust potential and limited experience to pass on a player of Gresham’s value.

22. New England Patriots- Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas

This is another home run for the Pats, as they will hope that Kindle falls down this far (he could go as high as #12 to the Dolphins). Kindle played a similar role in Texas’s defense where he was dropping into coverage, or had his hand in the dirt rushing the passer. He may not be an impact pass rusher in the caliber of Morgan or even Graham, but he will be very good. He is underrated against the run as well, and I just like this fit for the skill set he brings to the table. Everson Griffen can play this position as well and may end up having more upside, but I think he’s more of a work in progress than Kindle will be at the rush OLB position. Knowing the Patriots though, they will probably trade down to acquire even more picks this year and next year.

23. Green Bay Packers- Jerry Hughes, DE/OLB, TCU

From a pure pass rushing standpoint, this move makes good sense. Couple that with Ted Thompson’s tendency to take the best player available, and this really makes sense. Everson Griffen and Jason Pierre-Paul may get more of the headlines, but I think Hughes is the better player right now. Hughes just finds ways to get to the passer, and he looked great running the LB drills at the combine. He’s going to have some learning to do playing a new position, but the Pack can afford the luxury to some extent. They will use him wisely at first as a pass rush specialist while developing him into a overall fantastic book-end rusher with last year’s first rounder Clay Matthews Jr. In fact, with Kevin Greene as the OLBs coach, this tandem reminds me a lot of the old Steelers nightmare of Greene and Greg Lloyd. I’m a big fan of Hughes, and I think he’s going to make an excellent NFL player.

24. Philadelphia Eagles- Maurkice Pouncey, OC/OG, Florida

It would be very un-Andy Reid-like to pass on a versatile offensive lineman should one fall to him. A corner is a bigger need, and I looked long and hard at Alabama’s Kareem Jackson, but Pouncey just makes sense. The Eagles have two second round picks where they can strengthen their defensive backfield when the value is better. If Pouncey were already gone, to say the Steelers instead of Iupati, then I think Iupati would be the pick. Some people will say Taylor Mays is a physical safety in the mold of Brian Dawkins, but he isn’t close to the player Dawkins was when he played in Philly. Don’t be surprised to see Philly move those two second round picks and this pick to grab a safety that would fit like Earl Thomas.

25. Baltimore Ravens- Jared Odrick, DT/DE, Penn State

I really like Odrick and think this pick is a perfect marriage should Odrick fall. I think Odrick deserves to be mentioned in the same breath as McCoy and Suh because of his ability to change games from the interior defensive line position. The Ravens lost Dwan Edwards this off-season, and Odrick is the perfect guy to replace him in the starting lineup. Baltimore likes to run hybrid fronts, and Odrick can play the three and the five-technique equally well. A corner is hard to pass up, as is a TE like Rob Gronkowski, but I would do back flips if Odrick fell to me this late.

26. Arizona Cardinals- Charles Brown, OT, USC

I like Brown more than a lot of other experts. He can play the blindside tackle spot, which with left handed Matt Leinart will be the right side, or the left tackle spot where he played the past three seasons at USC. There are some character concerns with him, but he’s an athletic tackle who can pass protect on an island, and this team desperately needs some more athleticism at that spot. The Cardinals already have had some success with another USC OL in OG Duece Lutui, so I can see them dipping into the well once again to solidify the OT spots with young and talented Brown’s (current RT Levi and now Charles). If it’s not an OT here, look for the Cards to grab a NT like Shaun Cody to help solidify the middle of their run defense with Karlos Dansby playing in Miami.

27. Dallas Cowboys- Nate Allen, FS, South Florida

Here’s a pick many of you probably did not see coming, nor do many of you even know much about. I really like Allen and he is a traditional FS that fits this team perfectly. Allen can cover deep, but he’s a willing and able participant in the run game. Taylor Mays gets more publicity, but I think Allen is the better overall player. Jerry Jones has learned his lesson with reaching on players with physical upside. If he drafts Mays, he’s nothing more than Roy Williams (the safety) reincarnated. Allen is just as physical, but he’s got much better field awareness. He’s the missing piece that this defense has been searching for for the past few years now. An OT like Bruce Campbell could very well end up being the pick, but he’s not game ready like Allen is. The Cowboys know they have a short window to win, so they go with the player that helps them keep that small window cracked for the immediate future.

28. San Diego Chargers- Ryan Mathews, RB, Fresno State

This was an incredibly tough decision between RB in Mathews and NT in Terrance Cody. Both are big needs, and both fit very well, but I lean toward Mathews here because I like him a bit more than Cody overall when pressed to make a decision. Mathews will get a chance to be the workhorse back while splitting carries with Darren Sproles this year. He’ll get the reigns full time next year when the Chargers don’t want to pay Sproles the money he’s after. I wouldn’t argue one bit with Cody here, but I also think that the Chargers can grab a solid NT prospect like Cam Thomas in the top half of the second round to fill both needs.

29. New York Jets- Terrance Cody, NT, Alabama

The Jets struggled when Kris Jenkins went down last season, so they need a solid back up plan. The Jets really don’t have many needs after having a terrific off-season so far, so they can go with a bit of a luxury here in Jenkins heir apparent. It should help ensure that Jenkins is fully recovered from his injury last year, and help spell him for a few series a game. It’s very hard to pass on a potential pass rushing superstar in Everson Griffen or even TCU’s Jerry Hughes, but NT’s are hard to find and Cody is one of the best fits for this position.

30. Minnesota Vikings- Brian Price, DT, UCLA

The Vikings are also in a very enviable place in that they do not have many needs to fill. A CB would be a very fine pick here, but I like Price an awful lot, and this defense can win with good pressure up front and lesser players on the back end of the coverage. Price will fit immediately into the three man rotation and can eventually take over for Pat Williams (even though he’s a very different player than Williams is). I liken Price to a poor man’s Kevin Williams, who he will no doubt be lining up next to on passing downs. With Ray Edwards, Jared Allen, Price, and Kevin Williams rushing on 3rd downs I don’t want to be a QB in the NFC North. If the Vikings don’t think they will retain Edwards after this year, Griffen would make a great fit as well. If they go corner, expect this to be Kareem Jackson or Devin McCourty.

31. Indianapolis Colts- Everson Griffen, DE, USC

I don’t see Griffen lasting this long, but the way my picks have shaken out, he did. The Colts will immediately get a bigger and more physical presence at the POA on the edge, but also a guy with the speed to hang with their current undersized DEs. Griffen has some of the best potential of all of the defensive linemen in this draft, he just needs to consistently put his technique together with his physical skills. The Colts want to get bigger on the OL, and Bruce Campbell would accomplish this, but he’s too raw and needs more time to develop. Griffen helps this team win right now, and in the future.

32. New Orleans Saints- Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida

Jason Pierre-Paul scares me, but this is the perfect spot to draft a player like him. He has limited experience and all of the potential in the world, but he could also never turn that potential into anything. He’s going to get every chance to make an impact as a third down pass rusher, and he can learn behind standout veterans like Alex Brown and Will Smith. With the last pick in every round, these are the kind of players that New Orleans can afford to take. I’m sure he will end up going high than this as most other media outlets really like him, but I’m weary enough to pass until the last pick of the first round

Thursday, April 15, 2010

Mock Draft- 1st round, picks 1-17

So I’ve given up hope of getting all of my player evals done in time, so it’s mock draft time. The hits will keep on coming all the way through to at least the third round, but I may even go as far as the fifth. Lest we not forget, this is how I see it if I’m the GM for every team. I’m not a psychic and I don’t think a great mock draft is the one that ends up being accurate. I’m more concerned with three years from now when things end up looking a lot closer to what something my mock draft might look like today. To me, that brings more satisfaction than hitting it now. The only way we will see updates if I find some shocking new info coming in to draft week, or if another blockbuster trade like the Brandon Marshall trade happens. I hope you enjoy, and I apologize for the delay everyone!

1. St. Louis Rams- Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma

I think this is a no brainer, even if the outrageous rumor comes true, and the Browns trade up for this pick. Sam Bradford has steadily proved he’s the top pick in this draft. As I said before, I would not have hesitated to take him number one overall LAST YEAR. So this year? Well, there is hesitation due to the injury, but if you are cleared by the greatest orthopedic surgeon of all times then I’m cool with that grade as well. Bradford solves the biggest problem this team this has had, which is a stable franchise QB. He has a good enough arm, ideal size, and some of the best accuracy I have seen in some time. It’s cut and dry, Bradford is the pick and he should be.

2. Detroit Lions- Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska

Many outlets may have you think that with the Lions off-season acquisition of Cory Williams that DT is no longer a need, and Russell Okung should be the pick. I disagree strongly and say that when the Lions have been most successful in the draft, they have drafted the best player available that also fit need. Suh is an outstanding player that will be a long time Pro Bowler. He’s Jim Schwartz’s Albert Haynesworth, but younger and more committed to the game. Suh will make the Pro Bowl in his first three years in the league, barring a catastrophic injury. Mark it now, and call me out if I’m wrong.

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma

Many experts will argue who is better between McCoy and Suh, but I think it’s a dumb discussion. They are two very different players that fit different styles of defensive fronts, but they have one major thing in common in that they are true impact players. It’s like asking me to pick my favorite American micro-brew beer right now. I can probably narrow it down to two choices, and both are GREAT beers, so who cares which one you get? You’ll be happy no matter what. I absolutely love McCoy as well, as his attitude is infectious. He will be a superstar, and if you have ever seen an interview with this kid, I challenge you to give me a reason why you dislike him. He’s the best possible combination of great character, great ability, great leadership, and great personality. I want to play with this guy, and that means something.

4. Washington Redskins- Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State

I think the Redskins fleeced the Eagles. I just don’t understand why Philly treated McNabb like they did all those years. How can you not appreciate someone who takes you to so many NFC Championship games? Yes, he didn’t win a Super Bowl, BUT AT LEAST YOU GOT MORE THAN ONE CHANCE YOU A$$HOLES! Yeah, I said it. It’s the ungrateful fans similar to this that piss me off. Have you seen a championship for your favorite team? If the answer is yes, you cannot bitch. Anyway, Okung will be a very good LT for a long time. He will start immediately and McNabb will need him. This is how you win the right way. Is he young and will he struggle at times? Yep, but you have a veteran taking snaps so you rest easy. The Redskins have made some really bad moves in the past, this is not one of them and the McNabb trade is not one of them.

5. Kansas City Chiefs- Eric Berry, FS, Tennessee

Once again, many people will say that you don’t make a rookie safety the highest paid safety in the league by picking him this high. The problem with that theory? The teams that base their picks strictly on positional cost at their draft slot will be picking at this spot if not higher next year, and the year after, and the year after as long as this thinking continues. I’m the first person to say that a rookie wage scale is absolute necessary. No one argues with this point, and it’s why this isn’t an issue with the new CBA. Berry is the real deal, and he’s worth this pick. Hell, if Bradford’s shoulder hadn’t held up in follow up medical exams, I would have taken Berry as high as the third pick. Tell me this, when Ed Reed was drafted, do you think the teams that passed on him would go back and do the same thing if they knew how he would have turned out? No, I think price would not have been an issue. You improve as a team by getting the best players possible. Berry is that, and he will be one of the five best safeties. I wouldn’t argue with a pick like Bryan Bulaga here either to be honest, but I think Berry is a better player overall.

6. Seattle Seahawks- Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa

So why are Kiper and McShay all of a sudden all over Trent Williams? Some agent or super secret source told them this week that they love him! And the funniest part of this all is they believed him, during the week where the most misinformation will be passed around than any other time. Seattle is lucky here in that they have a lot of very good players to choose from, especially at positions of need. I think LT is the biggest need, and Bulaga is good enough to fill this right now. My hardest decision is deciding between Bulaga, Joe Haden, Derrick Morgan, and Dez Bryant. I choose Bulaga because he can come right in and play, and he’s the most technically sound OT in this draft. It’s a lot like Jake Long, expect Long had more natural talent. In that draft, I felt Ryan Clady may have had better overall skills, but Long was more ready to come in and play. That’s the same way I feel about Okung and Bulaga, except I flip-flopped the picks this time and went for upside first. Morgan and Haden are the hardest to pass on, but a LT is just that much more important than these positions. But if either of them is the pick, I will not argue. And while I like Bryant, I don’t like him this much. You want to know what seals this the most for me? Seattle just hired all time, hall of fame caliber OL coach Joe Gibbs to teach the zone blocking scheme to this OL. Bulaga is a GREAT fit inn the zone scheme.

7. Cleveland Browns- Joe Haden, CB, Florida

Danimal, I know you are very happy to see this as this was one of the guys you told me you wanted for your beloved Browns. I’m sorry to have to tell you this, but I didn’t make this decision because of you. I made this pick because I think it’s the right decision. Drafting Morgan to play OLB in the 3-4 is more risky than Haden here because there is no risk of wondering if he will make the transition. I personally think Morgan is better fit as a 4-3 DE, so that’s why I go with Haden here. Joe Haden can be the next great corner in this league, and I don’t care what he ran at the combine or his Pro Day. I saw enough of him on film to say unequivocally that Haden will be a starter from day one and will make an impact for this team for years to come. I would not argue with Morgan though, and even Dez Bryant wouldn’t be a bad pick. The wildcard is CJ Spiller. I would have no problem picking him here, but I don’t make that move because of the shelf life of RBs and the fact that a decent RB can be had in the third.

8. Oakland Raiders- Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma

Holy crap, four of the first seven picks are from the Big-12! Too many people automatically picked Bruce Campbell for this after his great combine, but I don’t think Al Davis can be that stupid. Or can he??? Once again, I’m not Al Davis, so I pick Williams. I won’t go back on what I said before that I don’t think Williams will be a good LT, but he’s going to be a solid player. He can be a LT, and ideally he’s a top notch RT, but he can be serviceable on the left side if needed. Morgan would be an excellent choice at another position of need, but Oakland will never succeed unless they improve the OL. Tom Cable is a former OL coach and he’ll push for this pick.

9. Buffalo Bills- Dan Williams, NT, Tennessee

This is a very tough decision for the Bills. If they like Jimmy Clausen, they make that move even without the LT. I don’t like Clausen, so I pass, but if they did go that route then I would look for the Bills to push hard to trade their second rounder to the Ravens for top notch LT Jared Gaither. Another option would be Dez Bryant, but I think that Buddy Nix knows that this is the wrong place for that young man. It would be Brandon Marshall 2.0. So Williams is a great consolation. If any of the top three OTs falls to here, then this would be the choice no matter which one fell, but it didn’t happen in my mock. Williams will be the day one NT for this new 3-4 defense and he will make it that much better overall. If I can walk away with my NT of the future in Williams, and Gaither in the second round, then I’m a happy man. A QB is a desperate need, but you don’t reach out of desperation. They can always wait until next year or hope they strike it rich with a late round pick a la Tom Brady.

10. Jacksonville Jaguars- Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame

I know, you are probably screaming at me saying ‘David Gerrard went to the Pro Bowl last year!’. Yeah, and so did the ghost of Red Grange because so many RBs pulled out of the Pro Bowl as well. The Pro Bowl matters if you are part of the first people chosen, not the fifth alternate that somehow makes it. What does Jimmy Clausen bring this team that Gerrard doesn’t? A built-in fan base for a team that is massively struggling. You get the Notre Dame loyal followers, the Jimmy Clausen fans, and the hoards of Jimmy Clausen haters interested. For a franchise desperate for viewers, I make this move even though I don’t truly believe in it. If you asked me who is the best comparison to Jimmy Clausen in the NFL, I would say David Gerrard. I will disagree though with the people who think CJ Spiller is the pick here because they become the ‘Panthers South’. It’s a wasted pick for a position of strength. I’d rather take Dez Bryant but I go with Clausen instead. Who is the best value here you may ask? That’s easy, Derrick Morgan, but Clausen just fits in my mind for some odd reason (even though he may be the white version of Byron Leftwich).

11. Denver Broncos- Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama

It’s a tough choice between three players here: Earl Thomas, McClain, and Bryant. I don’t think Bryant will be the pick as they had the sure thing Bryant in Brandon Marshall that they just traded away. I think they can use that second 2nd rounder to fill the WR gap they now are faced with. McClain is the defensive leader that can take over for Brian Dawkins once he’s done playing. ILB is a desperate need, and defensive leadership and toughness is just missing from this team right now, and McClain fits perfectly with a combination of need/value/character. I really can’t argue with any of these three picks, but if Dan Williams fell here, I think they’d go value and pick him instead. I would not be surprised to see Morgan or another rush OLB player make it to this pick either.

12. Miami Dolphins- Earl Thomas, FS, Texas

I love what the Dolphins have done so far this off-season. Karlos Dansby is just coming into his prime and he will continue to get better. Brandon Marshall was worth two second rounders and the money they gave him, so another big hit. Thomas provides the sure thing starting FS that this team desperately needs. Gibril Wilson was supposed to bring toughness to the position but failed to cover deep. The Fins have two very big and physical corners, so a fast, efficient, and field aware deep centerfielder will make a big improvement for this team. I think Miami would love to see a NT like Dan Williams fall to this spot but it would take a serious shake up for that to happen (or yet another major reach by the Raiders). Derrick Morgan would fill a big need as a potential pass rushing superstar, but I love Earl Thomas and make this pick without hesitation.

13. San Francisco 49ers- CJ Spiller, RB, Clemson

You may call me crazy and say that because the 49ers have Frank Gore and last year’s third rounder Glenn Coffee that this is a wasted pick. I will argue that the 49ers are close to being a play off team and desperately need a return man. They could also use some offensive weapons, and Spiller is the biggest non-QB weapon in this draft. Coffee was not exactly a standout last year, so even though he was a third rounder, you don’t pass on a home run threat like Spiller for say someone like Anthony Davis who is the fourth best OT at best in this draft. Spiller can return both punts and kicks immediately, and he’s the second back behind Gore (who, least I remind you, has been very injury prone throughout his career). If not Spiller, than Davis or Morgan make great sense here.

14. Seattle Seahawks- Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech

If this actually happened, I would be very shocked. Like Brian Orakpo falling as far as he did last year, I just don’t see Morgan falling this far in reality. But when trying to lay this out each time for each team, it’s realistic he could fall this far. If he does, this is an absolute home run for their first round picks. A franchise LT and a franchise DE is hard to come by with one pick, let alone two. Dez Bryant would be the explosive WR threat Pete Carroll is looking for, but I think he plays this smart and hopes to grab a player he’s familiar with in the late second like Damian Williams. Also, if the team opts to grab Morgan earlier or maybe even Joe Haden, don’t be surprised to see USC OT Charles Brown go this high. I like Brown and he’s a fantastic fit for this zone scheme as well.

15. New York Giants- Sean Weatherspoon, MLB, Missouri

Some will argue I am crazy, but I will argue that I just know football better than you. Weatherspoon is a player that steadily grew on me as time went by, and with new DC Perry Fewell calling the shots, he makes even more sense (seeing as it’s a Cover-2 defense, which requires faster MLBs). Weatherspoon is an athletic guy who can cover, blitz, tackle, and run. He’d be a great fit outside, but everyone said the same about Brian Urlacher when he came out and now look. Weatherspoon is unquestionably one of the best leaders in this draft class, and I think that matters the most to the Giants. I thought long and hard about Dez Bryant, who strangely enough makes very good sense here, but Weatherspoon is the pick.

16. Tennessee Titans- Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State

It’s crazy to think I could see Bryant go as high as the 6th pick to as low as this. I don’t see him falling any further than here though, as this is a team desperate for more top notch playmakers to help out Vince Young. The problem with Bryant is that I do question his commitment to be great. Someone recently asked me what was the difference between Crabtree and Bryant, and the difference is that timed speed was Crabtree’s only issue. I question Bryant’s love of the game. I think because he’s naturally gifted, he takes hard work for granted and this is the difference between the first rounder that makes it and the one that doesn’t. Jeff Fisher is the perfect coach to get the most out of Bryant. If not him, then I could see a DE like Everson Griffen or Jason Pierre-Paul being very attractive. Don’t sleep on Boise St CB Kyle Wilson either.

17. San Francisco 49ers- Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers

Once again, Davis is a player with top notch talent and questionable work ethic. Mike Singletary is one of the best motivators in this game. I can vouch for this personally having been to a private talk Singletary once gave at a school. When he starts speaking, he makes you want to run through a wall because he told you to do so. Davis has all of the tools to be very good, but he needs motivation to fulfill his potential. Davis can start at RT if needed and between him and Joe Staley, they can fight for who should fit at which OT position. This automatically gives Alex Smith the time needed to actually make plays. If he can’t, he’s not the QB of the future and they need to move on.

Thursday, April 8, 2010

SEC- South Carolina

Stephen Garcia, QB, So- Arm is just not good enough for the next level. Needs to work on his arm strength or will not be draftable as an NFL DB will have more than enough time to break on the ball and get the pick.

Moe Brown, WR, Sr- Brown is a big receiver with what looks to be good speed. I think Garcia holds him back from being better. I think he will be a late riser and could make for a nice sleeper pick.

Weslye Saunders, TE, Jr- Not a top shelf prospect, but has another year, and with his size he could make for a tough matchup. For such a big guy he’s not a great blocker. Uses his size to his advantage by shielding defenders in the pass game and wins every jump ball because of his height. Saunders is definitely someone to keep an eye on, but he’s on that border right now of how Kellen Davis was in college. All the potential in the world, but has to put it all together still.

Tori Gurley, WR, Fr- Gurley has the potential to develop into a high first rounder. He’s 6’5” with good speed and good hands. He needs to learn how to use his body better to shield off defenders and go get the ball, but has game changing ability and is huge for a true Freshman. I will be watching him closely for the next two years.

Jarriel King, LT, Jr- Not too sold on King. Not quick enough to play LT, but moved him from tackle to guard and that is probably where he will fit best. He does not have the feet to play tackle, and he’s big enough to move the pile.

Devin Taylor, DE, So- Taylor is an impressive young pass rusher. Very good speed, long arms, good pass rush move variety, and relentless in pursuit. Blocked a punt as well.

Cliff Matthews, DE, Jr- I really like Matthews a lot. Good edge rusher who sets up the speed rush well with a good power bull rush. He’s long with long arms, and he does a good job of shooting his hands and locking out the tackle. He sheds well, stacks the line, and chases the backside play hard. Versatile, and fits best as a 4-3 DE in my book, but can play the five-technique.

Eric Norwood, OLB, Sr- Norwood just makes impact plays. He has an excellent burst, he’s explosive, he has an uncanny feel for the pass rush game and how to vary his moves, and when he gets to the QB he really delivers a hit. He is not very good in pass coverage, so he will need some coaching in this area. He’s the type of player I do not want to pass on, especially if I have a 3-4 defense.

Darian Stewart, SS, Sr- Stewart started off at corner, and I thought he looked poor and would make a better safety, and lo and behold he ended up moving to SS in the middle of the year. He’s a natural fit for SS as he’s a good hitter, a strong tackler, has good enough speed, and his stiff hips won’t hurt him as much at this position. His experience at both positions will help, but he’s not a coverage guy as much as he is a versatile weapon in the box.

Hakeem Auguste, FS, Sr- Smaller DB that plays big. Big hitter, always around the ball. Good break on passes. Looks decent returning punts as well.

Nathan Pepper, DT, Sr- Not a bad prospect, but a late rounder definitely. Good motor, effort player, who is decent in both phases.

SEC- Ole Miss

Jevan Sneed, QB, Jr- Snead looked lost this year. He looked plain scared at times this season. Snead has several positive things to like, and I have a hard time forgetting all of the things I liked about him last season. The team that takes a chance on him will need to work on his confidence and decision making, but if given time, I think he can be one of the top QBs from this draft (and he can be had for a 4th round pick more than likely).

Dexter McCluster, WR/RB, Sr- His size will cause his stock to slip, but with a creative OC, he will be a major weapon. McCluster has great speed and an uncanny ability to make small moves and make tacklers miss. For a small guy, he breaks a lot of tackles. He’s a bit of a ‘tweener right now though, but I think ultimately his best spot is at WR and returning kicks. I would not be surprised to see him go in the second round, but I think he makes more sense in the third as he’s not an every down player.

John Jerry, RT/OG, Sr- I still like Jerry as a RT, but he is a bit slow off the snap. That scares me as he does not have the speed to catch up to edge rusher at the next level, so guard may end up being his position when it’s all said and done. Jerry is great in the run game, as once he locks on, he moves the pile. I like the fact that he’s versatile enough to play both positions, and a strong game here could push his stock up into the second round range. In fact, I’d be tickled pink should he possibly slip down to the Bears in the third round. He could start immediately at guard for a team, and can provide spot duty at RT if needed.

Shay Hodge, WR, Sr- The more I saw of Hodge in the post-season bowl games and workouts, the more I’m staying with what I previously thought. He’s got some talent there, but I’m not sold on him as anything more than say a 5th round pick.

Greg Hardy, DE, Sr- Hardy is perhaps the biggest enigma in this entire draft. Go no further than last year’s Florida game, where he almost single handedly beat the Gators with one of the more dominating performances I saw by a DL last season. He has ‘buyer beware’ written all over him due to past injury concerns, off the field incidents, and several problems with discipline. I think the injuries have hurt him most. He was very slow off the ball at times this year, and this is something to watch in this game. I’m concerned the injuries have taken a step away from his elite outside speed…but…he has a lot of technique and field awareness to make up for it. He’s very aware of the field and does a good job of bailing on screens and covering the back. He has shown he can drop into the zone if needed. Seeing Hardy workout at the Combine really pushed his stock down. The slowness I saw on film this year was magnified in the times he ran. With so many black marks, I see him sliding to the third. He’ll be a solid situational pass rusher at the next level, or he will disappear completely.

Kendrick Lewis, FS, Sr- Lewis is a converted WR so he’s still learning the position, but there is a lot to like. He’s very physical in run coverage, but it’s his instincts in deep coverage that concern me. There is enough upside there though that I would take a risk on developing him in the mid rounds.

Marcus Tillman, DE, Sr- Looked OK when dropping into zone coverage. Pursues very well downfield. I like what he brings. He’s not outstanding in any one area but he’s solid all around. Good effort guy who will make his way into a rotation.

Kentrell Lockett, DE, Jr- Lockett could be the next Hardy, but in a good way. He shows great outside speed and flattens around the corner well to get to the passer. He drops into coverage well and holds the point well enough for an undersized end. Would fit great into a cover-2 D as a rush DE.

Patrick Trahan, OLB, Sr- Decent prospect, not great, but solid.

Marshay Green, CB, Sr- Good straight line speed, and a decent punt returner. Not a great corner, but decent enough. A bit short though which is what will hurt him most.

Jerrell Powe, DT, Jr- I really like Powe a lot. He’s an ideal 3-4 NT and could be a game changer at that position. He commands double teams due to his size, but he’s also quick off the snap and gets penetration into the backfield. Very strong punch and knocks back OL with his initial punch. He’ll be very highly sought after next year because of his ability to play the nose.

SEC- LSU

Jordan Jefferson, QB, So- Jefferson still has the tendency to run too often for my liking, but he’s developing and maturing as a passer. He has a plus arm, and is making better decisions. If he can keep improving his decision making and keep his eyes downfield when the play breaks down, he could develop into a McNabb style QB.

Charles Scott, RB, Sr- Scott is a good power back, but there’s no wiggle in his game. He’s a straight forward between the tackles runner that won’t break a game open but can wear down defenses. Scott’s a solid compliment back, but because he doesn’t have break away speed.

Brandon Lafell, WR, Sr- Silky route runner, with good speed. I question his ability to get off the jam though as he tends to play more slot or off the line. He’s got good size, but I don’t think he has the break-away speed of a number one receiver. Lafell should make a very solid compliment WR and I’d take him as high as the second round, but he could slip to the third, where he will be an excellent value.

Terrance Toliver, WR, Jr- Toliver is the top returning Senior WR in my opinion. His speed is game changing, and he does a great job of turning short slant routes into long gains. Toliver has the frame, hands, and physical makeup to be a dominant outside receiver.

Ciron Black, OT, Sr- I’ve never been a fan of Black, although many other draft experts considered him a solid tackle prospect. If you watch any bit of tape on Black it’s obvious he does not have the feet to play LT, and I will argue he doesn’t have the foot speed to play RT at the next level either. He is solid in the run game though, so he has some value at guard. He’s a four year starter, so there is something to say about experience and technique that he has developed over that time, but it cannot compensate for a lack of athleticism to play tackle in the NFL.

Joseph Barksdale, OT, Jr- I don’t buy the hype some other people have put on Barksdale. He’s got a good frame, decent feet, but he still gets beat by speed on the edge. He’s a bit light in the ass too, so he gets pushed back fairly easily. He needs to come back, switch to LT, and then I’d be more willing to re-think my position on him. The potential is there, but he needs to get stronger and bigger.

Trindon Holliday, RS, Sr- Holliday’s a very good kick returner, but that’s not someone you take higher than the 5th or 6th round. He’s very one dimensional but his speed will get him drafted late

Deangelo Peterson, TE, So- Peterson is a converted WR that looks like he will be a huge receiving threat and one of the top rated returning TEs next year. Good overall frame and can leap. I really like his potential.

Drake Nevis, DT, Jr- Nevis is one of the top returning DTs in next year’s draft. He’s so quick out of his stance that he really disrupts running lanes. Nevis shows a violent punch and stacks the line in the run game as well. He’s an aware player as well, and can scrape down the line and make plays.

Chad Jones, FS, Jr- Jones is a very good tackler, and is strong enough in this phase to even play some SS. He showed enough ability covering receivers man up that I think he can play deep centerfield as well. He’s not the most athletic guy out there, but he just makes plays.

Patrick Peterson, CB, So- Peterson has a very bright future! He can really plant and drive to make a play, can keep up with speed receivers, and is extremely physical. He’s a big corner, so he has ideal size for the next level. One thing I want to see him change next year though is he tends to bite on the first move a bit too much and can get beat with double moves. If he can work on that, he may be the best corner in next year’s draft.

Rahim Alem, DE, Sr- Alem is a very good pass rusher, but is a liability against the run. I’m not too sure if he can move to OLB at the next level, but for a team like the Colts, he’d be a solid rotational DE.

Al Woods, DT, Sr- For a DT some experts are saying can play NT, he gets washed far too easily in the run game. I don’t think he’s worth drafting.

Harry Coleman, OLB, Sr- Coleman is very undersized, shows good speed, and covers well. His size will hurt his stock though.

SEC- Kentucky

Corey Peters, DT, Sr- I really like Peters. He does a good job of getting into the blocker first, shedding, and making the play. He can rush the passer well, and he has a big lower body to anchor against the run. He’s not got much publicity going for him now, but I think he’s going to be an outstanding value. I’d take him in the third, and I think that’s where he’ll go. He’s a true 4-3 DT who can anchor enough to play the NT spot but is quick enough to play the 3-technique as well.

Micah Johnson, MLB, Sr- Johnson’s inconsistent which will cost him a higher draft value. But when he is on, he’s a good MLB. He does a good job of reading his keys, being patient, and exploding on the ball carrier. I didn’t see him in coverage much as they blitzed him a lot, but it did show he has the strength to blitz up the middle. He can get caught in the wash a bit too much though, but I still like his upside. He’s probably a 4th rounder, or maybe a 5th rounder.

Trevard Lindley, CB, Sr- For some reason most other experts like Lindley, but I really don’t like him. I said he was really soft against the run last year, and he proved once again he’s just not interested in fighting to make a solo tackle. He will simply hold a guy up until someone else comes in and makes the tackle for him. And I’m not sold on his coverage skills either, so it’s not like he has one thing to fall back on.

Morgan Newton, QB, true Fr- If he were three inches taller, he may be one of the hotter QB prospects in this already solid true Freshman class. He has a great arm, good enough accuracy for a Freshman, and he’s very fast. He’s someone else to watch for the next three years.

Derrick Locke, RB, Jr- Locke is incredibly fast, but undersized. He has the burst and long speed to hit a crease and go all the way. He’s not an inside runner though.

John Conner, FB, Sr- Good senior FB prospect, and probably the best true FB I’ve seen this year. He’s not outstanding as a lead blocker, just good. He’s a late rounder

Zipp Duncan, LT, Sr- Duncan actually held up well against two really good DE’s in Kentucky’s bowl game. He did struggle at times with the edge speed, but he did a good job of running them wide of the pocket and allowing the QB to step up and throw. He is a bit light in the backside, so he struggles with anchoring, but he gives good effort. He’s nothing more than a late rounder, but he has something there to work with.

Justin Jeffries, RT, Sr- Jeffries actually looks like a solid RT prospect. He’s a good enough pass blocker, and he’s solid against the run. He’s a very nice sleeper RT who will slip through the cracks but will make for a nice value pick.

SEC- Georgia

Geno Atkins, DT, Sr- Atkins is strictly a three-technique. He gets great penetration into the backfield and is very disruptive. One of the biggest issues I have with him is that his field awareness is not up to where it should be. An example is when he gets penetration, he can run right past the play without even noticing. He’s also had some disciplinary issues, and has not been a full time starter at all, so there are some bumps on him. He has the skills of a second round pick though, but the overall package has to be taken into consideration. Quickness is what his game is based on, but I think he’d be a decent value in the third, and a great value in the fourth for a Cover-2 based team.

Jeff Owens, DT, Sr- Owens is a one-dimensional run stuffer, but he does hold up well against the double team. He’s not big enough to be a zero-technique, but he can hold up as a nose in the 4-3. I wouldn’t risk the pick until the 5th round or so though because of the fact that he’s a two down player.

Kade Weston, DT, Sr- Weston actually showed a few flashes, and has not gotten as much of a chance due to the guys above. He’s a very nice late round pick who could definitely make his way into a rotation. He’s big enough to stuff the run, but he is quick enough to get to the passer.

Bryan Evans, FS, Sr- Evans is a BIG hitter for a small guy. The most glaring problem with Evans is that he looks very stiff in the hips and struggles to turn and run with receivers. Couple that with being too small to play SS, I think he’s more of a late round special teams type of prospect.

Prince Miller, CB, Sr- I love Miller’s aggressiveness on the jam and in the run game especially. He’s not afraid to attack the line against the run, which definitely helps him. There are some negatives though. He’s not fast enough to be a boundary corner, and he’s too small to play that position as well. To me, he’ll make a nice nickel corner and will be a fantastic gunner in the kicking game as well. Still, he’s a 5th rounder or so.

AJ Green, WR, So- Green is a very good prospect, but I’m thinking Jones and Baldwin are slightly ahead of him at this point (but not by much). He has all fo the makings of a number one receiver, but he will need to work hard next year of getting off the jam at the LOS when a bigger corner is in his face. This was the only part of his game I saw a hole in, but he’s a playmaker and a potential first rounder.

Drew Butler, P, rsSo- Kevin Butler’s son will be the best punter to come out in some time in two years. Fantastic leg, great kicking accuracy, has it all at a young age.

SEC- Florida

Tim Tebow, QB, Sr- I think it’s plain and simple that Tebow is not and will never be an NFL QB. He just completely loses it once his primary and secondary reads are gone, and that wind up release is a major issue. If he goes any higher than the 4th round, it’s a waste of a pick and that team will be sorry. I’m tired of people giving him a break for being a great human being. I get that, and there is no doubting this kid is saint-like in everyday life, but this is one of the biggest businesses in the world. You don’t hire a CEO for a Fortune 500 company based on their personality. You hire them based on their ability to run your company. That’s the way things need to be looked at here, and that is strictly a commentary on what he can do on the field. If you get wrapped up with his off the field endeavors, you are wasting your pick on a player who could potentially be a starter.

Aaron Hernandez, TE, Jr- I don’t think I once saw him line up in a three-point stance this entire game. While there is not one doubt Hernandez is an offensive weapon, he has to go to the right system, and not all teams are going to be willing to spend a high second round pick on a one-dimensional player. Experts will rag on guys who are only pass rush specialists, and I think the same needs to go for Hernandez here. He’s a one dimensional pass catcher. He’s a good one, but I would rather have a player who is slightly better at blocking that I can rely on in more than one phase of the game. I can say this, Hernandez runs the TE screen better than any other TE I’ve seen. He sells the action well, and comes back to the line cleanly. He’s good in space with the ball in his hands, and this is what a team will have to endeavor to do with him.

Riley Cooper, WR, Sr- He can return kicks, and is a tough kid, but I don’t see him as more than a possession receiver and blocker. I don’t think he has the speed or strength to separate or get away from coverage, but he’s a tough slot receiver who will go over the middle. What makes reading his value much harder is that Tebow is not a passer, so Riley may end up being a better pro than college athelete.

Jeff Demps, RB, Sr- Demps is all speed, and game changing speed at that. He goes down far too easy to the first contact though, which is frustrating. He’s a change of pace back and return man, but don’t buy into the hype of him being like Darren Sproles. Sproles is a much better runner with big legs, and Demps does not have his size.

Chris Rainey, RB, Jr- Rainey’s a bit more physical than Demps, but he’s still a very poor between the tackles runner. I question if he will be effective outside of this type of offense. Rainey showed good hands in the passing game, and I think he may be a bit more valuable because of this. I think he’d be a lot like Dexter McCluster this year, and with some added strength and size, he could be a nice situational player.

Maurkice Pouncey, OC, Jr- I’m not as sold on Pouncey as the other experts are. I think coming out early was a smart idea since there are limited OC’s in this draft that could potentially start at the next level, and Pouncey is one of them. He has a bit of a tendency to get over extended with his weight too far forward, but he has good arm length, can get movement in the run game, and is athletic enough to slide around and help in pass coverage. The biggest thing that turns me off of Pouncey is his demeanor. On too many plays this year I saw him stop early with his blocks or just stand around the pile. A nasty attitude is hard to teach, so I worry that this may affect him at the next level. To me, the center position has a proud tradition of being the nastiest player on the entire OL, and Pouncey is missing that. He has the talent to start right away though, so I doubt he makes it out of the first round, even though I’d feel better with the value in the early 2nd.

Mike Pouncey, RG, Jr- This Pouncey twin made the right decision to come back. He needs to get bigger in the backside, and I think he’d be smart to move to center like his brother did this year as that may be his best fit in the NFL. He struggles a bit with athletic guys underneath, but once he locks on he can get DTs on skates and move them down the field. The plus side to him is he has the nastiness his brother doesn’t and he is always finishing his blocks. He’s less athletic and may have less upside, but I like his make up better. If he can show improved technique with sinking his hips and staying balanced, he could move up considerably next season.

Brandon Spikes, MLB, Sr- It’s funny to see the people like Kiper and McShay who were saying Spikes was a first rounder earlier now start to sour on this. His instincts just don’t seem to have improved for a fourth year player. Spikes still does not use his hands to shed blocks. He runs into plays with his head down and shoulder first into blocks. His hips are really tight, and he does not do well in zone coverage. I see him more as a compliment to another well rounded ILB in a 3-4 than manning the middle by himself. Someone will probably take him in the late second round, but I don’t think he will ever develop into an impact player.

Ryan Stamper, OLB, Sr- Stamper is going to be a special teams ace. He may never be a regular contributor for a defense but he’s a guy I want on my roster because of his versatility and ability to help in the third phase of the game.

Carlos Dunlap, DE, Jr- LAZY player. Dunlap’s all potential, and it’s a dirty word in his case. Dunlap is such an enigma in this draft that I would stay far away from him. I can’t say it enough but he is the dictionary definition of ‘boom or bust’ prospect. He looks like a terror at times off the edge, showing a nice mix of speed and power moves, but then on the next few plays he’ll be 15 yards down the field with a less talented tackle putting him on skates. He’s a liability in the run game, and I have to agree with earlier film study that he may make a better three-technique tackle than a true end. He’s going to need a very strict coach who will make him be accountable, and he’s a major risk to whoever decides to pick him. He will be the topic of many war room arguments come draft day.

Jermaine Cunningham, DE/OLB, Sr- Cunningham has the pass rush ability to get him drafted in the second round, but his inability to hold the point in the run game will push him down. He absolutely will need to make the move to a 3-4, unless he goes to a team like the Colts who value speed over size and strength. I like him though as he’s a solid player who gives a great effort and has talent to work with.

Joe Haden, CB, Jr- Joe Haden can thank Derrell Revis for his draft windfall. Haden is absolutely what I would call a shut down CB and he could easily be one of the 3-5 best at the position as a rookie. It’s a bold statement but I absolutely believe in it. I never once saw him out of position, and when plays were made on him they were simply great throws he could do nothing about. Great corners are so rare that you have to take them when they are there. He’s great in run coverage, he attacks the line hard, he has very smooth hips, good deep speed, and he tracks the ball very well for a DB. If he makes it out of the top ten picks I will be shocked, and I’d be willing to offer up a draft day bounty for that 6th pick to grab him if I’m a team like the 49ers (who have two first rounders and would be a great fit for Haden).

Major Wright, S, Jr- I’m interested to see what 40 time Wright runs as he’s one of those guys who may not have great long speed but has absolutely elite burst. His 10-yard closing speed to the receiver once they have the ball is elite. Even though he can absolutely lay the wood in the run game, he’s not great in this phase of the game. He’s not an in the box type who comes up hard to fill. He’s more of a secondary line of defense who tackles well and can really knock balls out of receiver’s hands with big shots. He probably made the overall correct decision to come out early, but he could slip further than he potentially could have gone if he stayed an extra year in college. If you can get this guy in the late second or early third, he could be an absolute steal.