Arse’s NFL Mock Draft 2010 1st Round Projections

Just like Lester, I think it’s foolish to be throwing up mock draft predictions three months prior to the draft. Unlike Lester, I’m a bit of a fool, so I jumped at the chance to weigh in with my thoughts on what direction teams would be leaning come late April. My first round mock takes into account moves that I think teams will make through free agency or via a trade leading up to the NFL draft. My mock draft, like many others I’ve seen thus far, is defense-heavy with only a handful of offensive “skill position” players coming off the board in round 1. Fantasy owners may have to dig a bit deeper this season in looking to fill their own needs and uncover potential impact players.

1. St. Louis Rams – Ndamukung Suh, DT, Nebraska

No reason to think the Rams will screw this up … yet.  Suh is the most dominant player at his (or any) position in college football.  I expect the Rams to address their quarterback woes via trade leaving them one of the easiest top pick choices in recent memory.  Suh will give them a rock-solid foundation to build around on D.

2. Detroit Lions – Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma

Unlike some of his peers that were considering entering the draft in 2009 but returned only to hurt their draft stock (Sam Bradford, Taylor Mays), McCoy’s value remained rock-steady.  Amazing quick for an interior lineman, McCoy will fill a major need for the Lions and Matt Millen isn’t around to mess things up anymore.

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State

The Bucs have interest in Brandon Marshall, but I expect the Broncos to tender him and the asking price will be too high for Tampa Bay.  I think they take their shot here to nab an elite play-maker to team with developing quarterback Josh Freeman.  Bryant is a special player with the size, speed and play-making ability to have an immediate impact.

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

Jason Campbell isn’t going anywhere, regardless of what the so-called experts think.  This team has holes that start up front and Shanahan is smart enough to know that without improving the o-line it won’t matter who is taking snaps.  Okung is nasty in the run game and has been very durable and consistent throughout his college career.

5. Kansas City Chiefs – Eric Berry, S, Tennessee

With an offense that is just starting to take shape following the breakout performance of Jamaal Charles down the stretch, the Chiefs should turn their attention to the defensive side of the ball with the early part of this draft.  Berry is a true difference-maker in the secondary who flies to the ball and exhibits tremendous leadership skills.

6. Seattle Seahawks – Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma

Bradford falling to the Hawks here represents too good of a value to pass up.  There are bigger needs on this team but with two first round picks the chance to grab a franchise quarterback and give him time to study under Matt Hasselbeck makes a lot of sense.  Bradford’s accuracy and decision-making translate very well to the next level.

7. Cleveland Browns – Joe Haden, CB, Florida

One need look no further than the New York Jets to see the impact a true cover corner can have on an entire defense.  While I’m not about to compare Haden to Darrelle Revis, the point is Haden is by far the best at his position in this draft and the Browns have a need in the secondary.  Haden is a solid tackler as well, important in a rugged division.

8. Oakland Raiders – Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech

One thing we’ve learned about the Raiders front office over the years is that they are awful at evaluating talent and addressing team needs.  That said, Morgan is a much safer pick here than a certain speedy wide receiver that struggles to hold on to the ball.  Richard Seymour and Greg Ellis were solid, but neither is a sure thing next season.

9. Buffalo Bills – Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma

The Bills are another team that I expect to address their QB needs prior to the draft.  Chan Gailey will likely try to install his familiar spread offense but without help on the front lines this team is going nowhere.  In a brutal AFC East, the Bills need to rebuild the foundation from the inside out and Williams will be a step in the right direction.

10. Jacksonville Jaguars – Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida

The Jags successfully rebuilt a faltering o-line early in last year’s draft and this season will turn their attention to the defense.  Their most glaring need is for a defensive end that can get pressure on opposing QBs and ease the pressure on a pedestrian secondary.  This team ranked last in the league in sacks last season (with just 14) and it wasn’t close.

11. Denver Broncos – Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma

There are a lot of directions that I can see the Broncos going with this pick (QB, DE, S), but I think they grab the uber-talented tight end from Oklahoma.  Gresham is uncommonly gifted for his position, combining above average skills as a run blocker with exceptional receiving skills.  This pick would ease the loss of Brandon Marshall in the mile high city.

12. Miami Dolphins – Rolando McClain, MLB, Alabama

The rare combination of team need and best player available status.  McClain is a manimal and his skill were on display for all to see in the BCS title game against Texas.  The Phins could use his leadership, especially with the potential departure of Jason Taylor this offseason.  The rookie’s presence would instantly upgrade an already solid front-7.

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

Perhaps the most dynamic offensive weapon in college football this past season, Spiller will add an instant homerun threat to an offense that was already on the upturn.  Glen Coffee failed miserably in a complimentary role to pounder Frank Gore, and Spiller’s slashing style and big play potential in the return game are both needs for the Niners.

14. Seattle Seahawks – Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers

Davis is a bit of a mauler that uses his size and strength to win battles at the point of attack.  With a bit of work I think he could be a great fit for the zone blocking scheme favored by the new coaching regime in Seattle.  Paired with Bradford and an exciting young play-maker in Justin Forsett, the Hawks could have a nice trio to build around.

15. New York Giants – Navorro Bowman, OLB, Penn State

Bowman closes like a freight train and is a sure tackler, both areas the the G-Men lacked down the stretch at the second level.  Hard-rushing defensive ends Justin Tuck and Osi Umenyiora wreak havoc in opposing backfields, but without athletic backers in the flats the Giants allowed too many short passes to turn into big plays.

16. San Francisco 49ers – Earl Thomas, S, Texas

A pass-rushing end is another possibility here, but I think the more pressing need for the Niners is in the secondary.  A veteran group of cornerbacks featuring Nate Clements and Dre Bly could use an athletic safety over the top to allow them to play the aggressive style that coach Singletary prefers.  Thomas isn’t in Berry’s class but is a great value here.

17. Tennessee Titans – Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan

Originally pegged as a late-first or early-second round pick, Graham used a strong Senior Bowl showing to springboard his value heading into the combine.  This guy has a relentless motor and would be a nice upgrade to a Titans front four that was inconsistent at times getting to opposing quarterbacks and ranked in the bottom third of the league in sacks.

18. Pittsburgh Steelers – Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland

The Steelers ranked in the bottom half of the league this past season in rushing attempts, rushing yards, yards per carry and rushing TDs.  Think that will happen again in 2010?  The o-line has been a bit shaky for a couple of seasons now and without a committment to the running game Big Ben is taking some punishment.  Campbell fits a big need.

19. Houston Texans – Jonathan Dwyer, RB, Georgia Tech

I think Gary Kubiak is bad at managing his talent.  That’s why I’m helping him out here with a selection of Dwyer.  Pounding the rock 15-20 times a game with this kid and getting Steve Slaton 8-10 touches in space is a recipe for a playoff run when you consider the All-Pro connection of Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson and a young, talented D.

20. Atlanta Falcons – Taylor Mays, S, USC

The David is great and all, but if Michaelangelo were still sculpting today we’d be admiring his representation of “The Mays”.  This kid is an absolute specimen and if he had come out early last season in all likelihood he would have been a top-10 pick.  The talent hasn’t gone anywhere, and the Falcons could be getting a real steal nabbing Mays at 20.

21. Cincinnati Bengals – Aaron Hernandez, TE, Florida

I’ve always thought TJ Houshmandzadeh (championship!) was a bit overrated … tough to make that argument with the way the Bengals passing game struggled this season without him.  Hernandez is a nice consoloation prize for Cincy fans who were hoping Gresham would fall to them.  Extremely athletic, he will give Carson Palmer an underneath target.

22. New England Patriots – Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida

The Pats will be thrilled if this scenario plays out the way I have it because Dunlap would fill a big need for them.  Although there are some minor character concerns here, this kid is a freak flying off the end and would spark a Patriot pass rush that was non-existent at times following the strange dismissal of Richard Seymour prior to the season.

23. Green Bay Packers – Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas

Kindle is a very physical player whose versatility would fit nicely into the Packers hybrid 3-4 system.  As a rare edge rusher that also plays the run very well, Kindle has the ability to be a nice fit regardless of personnel grouping.  If Kindle is gone by this point (a strong possibility), I can see the Pack adding a homerun hitter like Jahvid Best.

24. Philadelphia Eagles – Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa

I think the Eagles would love to draft an impact safety along the lines of Earl Thomas or Taylor Mays, but I think both will be gone by this point.  That said, improvement along the offensive line is a must if the Iggles are planning to re-establish (establish for the first time?) their running game and bring some balance to their offensive attack.

25. Baltimore Ravens – Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame

The Ravens need to get up-and-coming QB Joe Flacco some weapons.  Derrick Mason is a reliable chain-mover (if he returns) but the play-making ability Tate showed in his junior season for the Irish would be very difficult to pass up here.  This kid is a gritty player that will fight for the ball in traffic and look to gain extra yards after the catch.

26. Arizona Cardinals – Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee

No doubt a position of need for the Cards, Williams is a tremendous value at the DT position.  That said, the retirement of Kurt Warner recently has me thinking Arizona may be looking to snag a signal-caller sometime in this draft … whether they consider Jimmy Clausen here I don’t know but I certainly think it’s possible.

27. Dallas Cowboys – Mike Iupati, OG, Idaho

This may be the first top-round pick in the history of the University of Idaho.  Iupati made a name for himself throughout the season by dominating opponents in the WAC before a tremendous showing against Bowling Green in the postseason.  At 6′6″ and 330 lbs, it’s possible the Cowboys will try Iupati out at the tackle spot as well.

28. San Diego Chargers – Brandon Spikes, OLB, Florida

Running back is a huge need for the Chargers with an offseason full of uncertainty.  If Dwyer falls to them I think there is no question they pull the trigger but I don’t expect that to happen.  I think Merriman is on the way out and Spikes would be a nice replacement for the fiery edge-rusher.  The Bolts will address RB in later rounds I believe.

29. New York Jets – Patrick Robinson, CB, Florida State

Robinson is certainly not in the class of a Joe Haden but he is a very talented player and the Jets lack of depth at CB was exposed several times throughout the season, particularly against the Colts in the AFC Championship.  I expect Braylon Edwards to be donning the green and white again next year so WR is a less pressing need at this stage.

30. Minnesota Vikings – Brian Price, DT, UCLA

A great value here for the Vikes who need to start thinking about fortifying a position that has been a strength for years now.  Pat and Kevin Williams (no relation) have been as good as any DT tandem in the league, but they are getting older and could use a young pup to spell them from time to time.  Price is a steal late in the first round.

31. Indianapolis Colts – Terrance Cody, DT, Alabama

Cody’s stock has been slipping due to concerns over his conditioning and motivation.  I think the Colts could find themselves a bargain here if they believe Cody is committed to playing at the next level.  Although not an every-down player, Cody is a massive run-stuffer that would make it difficult for teams to double Freeney and Mathis consistently.

32. New Orleans Saints – Jahvid Best, RB, California

This is a bit of a wildcard and I actually think the Saints should look to shore up their D-Line with one of the remaining glut of DTs but what the hell? … I think Reggie Bush has played his last game for the Super Bowl Champs and who better to fill his role than the shifty speedster out of Cal.  Similar skill set at a discounted rate? … I’ll take it.

NFL Mock Draft Database

Red Red Ryans 2010 NFL Mock Draft: Round 1

Red Red Ryan’s 2010 NFL Mock Draft

This is my first mock draft in my short history as a sports writer. I’ve read all that I can read about where some of the key free agents might be going, who is leaving, who might be traded, and who is unhappy with the players they have. I have studied up on the players and their expected combine numbers, their potential as NFL stars as well as their college situations. I think I have a pretty solid grasp on the first round of the NFL Draft – so here it goes.

1. St. Louis Rams: Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska: I don’t know how the Lions pass up on the biggest sure thing of the draft. Rarely can you get a difference maker at a key position on the line that is the popular choice – don’t waste this St. Louis!
2. Detroit Lions: Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma: I know this is the same start to my mock as Lucky Lester’s mock, and everyone else’s mock too, but it just makes too much sense. I’ve liked McCoy since I thought he should come out last season, and his domination this year makes me like him even more. The Lions need help up front.
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Joe Haden, CB, Florida: I know Berry is supposed to be the pick, but I don’t see value in a safety here, and I think, after much deliberation, the Bucs will feel the same way. The best corner in the draft is Joe Haden, and it’s not close. With Revis dominating all season long, I think a true shut down corner has some added value, and that value will sway the Bucs.
4. Washington Redskins: Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers: Many would like to see the Redskins go quarterback here, but I don’t think there’s a talented arm in the Shanny mold in this draft, and I think that leaves him grabbing the best offensive tackle with upside to fit his blocking scheme. Anthony Davis is that guy. He may not be the biggest or baddest lineman out there, but his combination of agility and upside has to be something Shanny likes. I think they’ll try to trade down with a team enamored by a QB, and I think they’ll be able to and still get Davis.
5. Kansas City Chiefs: Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State: This guy is the biggest and baddest available, and the Chiefs could use him. It’s hard to get the most out of Matt Cassel and his average arm when he’s never getting time to throw. Okung is also a mauler than can help that new and improved Chiefs run-game.
6. Seattle Seahawks: Eric Berry, S, Tennessee: Taylor Mays is a USC, Pete Carol guy, but what Pete and the Seahawks get here is probably the 2nd or 3rd best player in the draft. Berry would definitely help sure up that leaky Hawks secondary, and the Pee-Hawks will be really lucky to get this game breaker.
7. Cleveland Browns: Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma: Best quarterback in the draft, just like he would have been last season. His shoulder injuries are a little scary, but I think he’s worth the chance. Brady Quinn isn’t the answer. Holmgren has been solid with QBs, and I think Bradford is special.
8. Oakland Raiders: Rolando McLain, OLB, Alabama: Al Davis is a nut job, but he has to see special when it dominates on the biggest stage. McLain is a beast, he brings the ruckus and he’ll be a good piece of an improving Raider defense.
9. Buffalo Bills: Derek Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech: The Buffalo Bills need lots of things, but an every down end that can rush the passer and stop the run is a huge plus for that team, a team that will rely on their young and talented defense. Morgan has all the tools to be great, and he’s a good value here.
10. *Jacksonville Jaguars: Earl Thomas, S, Texas: There’s Dunlap, there’s Tebow (if they’re really that in need of revenue), and there’s a bunch of other good players than can help – but Thomas is an every down difference maker on defense, and that’s as safe a bet as the draft has. I think they take him.
11. *Denver Broncos: Carolos Dunlap, DE, Florida: Dunlap is a freak of nature, and if Josh McDaniels thinks he can get the most out of the very talented and ginormous defensive end, he’ll get picked up here. Jason Pierre-Paul could also go here. If McDaniels is really going to get a game changer, he’ll get Dez Bryant, but I think he waits on receiver help.
12. Miami Dolphins: Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State: Dez Bryant is a freak. I think he reacts to the ball as well as anyone, and he made a very mediocre college quarterback look very good the last two seasons. His run in with the NCAA will scare nobody. The Dolphins need WR help something fierce.
13. San Francisco 49ers: Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland: I don’t see much else in terms of value for the Niners here. They could use a couple upgrades in the secondary I guess, so a guy like Taylor Mays could help, but they need more power up front, and Campbell has the athleticism to be a great one up front.
14. Seattle Seahawks: Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa: If the Hawks don’t get Eric Berry with their 6th pick, I think Mays could go here. Carol knows how great Mays can be, and he knows that a lot of those problems this season were do to over extending himself and trying to make every play for a struggling team. But since they have Berry, Mays is not an option here. Offensive tackle is, and the Hawks need help there. People who think the Hawks need Spiller here are flat crazy, as Carol will soon see that Justin Forsett will do just fine in that role, and a 1st round draft pick need not be wasted on a small running back. The Hawks could use some help on the defensive line too, but there’s lots of help there. I think Bryan Bulaga has enough OT upside for Seattle to grab him here.
15. New York Giants: Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma: Kevin Boss is solid, but he’s not Gresham. The Oklahoma pass catching end is special, and thus might be worthy of a middle of the pack 1st round pick. He was unstoppable during his last healthy season, and Eli could use a game breaker in the passing game.
16. *San Francisco 49ers: Taylor Mays, S, USC: All the talent in the world, plenty of speed, brings it all every game – a game breaker – Mike Singletary’s type of player.
17. *Tennessee Titans: Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee: The Vols were very good defensively, and a lot of that credit has to be given to Williams and the way he dominated the line up front. He’s so strong and really uses good leverage. The Titans need defensive line help.
18. Pittsburgh Steelers: Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma: The Steelers really need help on the offensive line, and while Williams isn’t a guarantee to be great, he certainly proved he can play at a high level on the right side. Big Ben needs to stop holding the ball or get help up front, or both. Williams helps right now.
19. *Houston Texans: Brian Price, DT, UCLA: The Texans keep building on defense, and it makes sense, because offensively they are good enough to win football games. I think Price will be a very good defensive tackle, and any other year he’s likely a Top 10 guy, but there’s so many D-linemen this year, he slips. Lucky Texans.
20. *Atlanta Falcons: Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida: I must have missed something letting this guy slip this far – but that always happens a couple times, and the Falcons, while not in a great need for a DE, have to take the very talented Paul at 20.
21. Cincinnati Bengals: Aaron Hernandez, TE, Florida: Some think Aaron is the best of the TEs in a strong draft for pass catching big men. The Bengals definitely need some help in the passing game, another reliable threat for Palmer, and what better than a sure thing TE with great hands and mis-match type speed?
22. New England Patriots: C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson: I like what Lucky is thinking with this pick. Bill Belichick has to know a weapon when he sees one, and the Pats offense needs more weapons. Spiller scores a touchdown every game, that needs to be recognized. I think Sergio Kindle could go here as well.
23. Green Bay Packers: Charles Brown, OT, USC: I’m doing this for lack of a better plan. I think Kindle could go here too, but offensive line is a big need and Brown is the next best OT. The Pack won’t want to leave the draft without some help up front, and it will be slim pickings later. Maybe the Pack would take a chance on the very talented Jahvid Best? I just don’t think a back-up RB has that much value here.
24. Philadelphia Eagles: Navorro Bowman, OLB, Penn State: This is a great fit for the Eagles, a sure tackler that can get sideline to sideline. They were hurting at LB so much that they brought Trotter back in the fold. Seriously – as much as I did that guy, come on. I also think Everson Griffen has a chance to go here.
25. Baltimore Ravens: Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame: The Ravens could go for the ideal WR body, speed and height, or they could go for the guy that is going to get it done, a guy that dominated all season long at ND. I think they go with option two after watching Derrick Mason be so consistent over the years.
26. Arizona Cardinals: Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas: The Cardinals would be oh-so-lucky to get Kindle here, especially after the retirement of Bertrand Berry. Kindle is not a physicall imposing player, but what a difference maker and unbelievably physical for his size. A steal at 26.
27. Dallas Cowboys: Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida: Keith Brooking is 34 and Spikes is one of the best defensive players in college football. I’m not saying he can easily replace what Brooking did for the Cowboys this season, but he can learn from him, and he can help right away everywhere else.
28. San Diego Chargers: Mike Iupati, OG, Idaho: Could the Chargers reach for the mammoth nose tackle Cody, knowing they need to clog up the middle on defense? Maybe. Could they go RB, to replace LT’s production as a more powerful back to team with Sproles? Maybe, but I think this is too high to go RB for them. Mike Iupati is a beast of a guard, and this run-game needs help. I think he starts right away for an O-line that needs some upgrades.
29. New York Jets: Jerry Hughes, DE/OLB, TCU: The Jets aren’t in dire need of offensive play-makers like everyone insists – come on. They have a stellar offensive line. They have a great defense – so I think they get to pick the best player available. If they think Hughes can fit somewhere in that 3-4, I think he works. He might not be the biggest or strongest, but the guy has gotten it done with great consistency, and I think Rex can appreciate a great football player.
30. Minnesota Vikings: Patrick Robinson, CB, Florida State: The kid is a good player and the Vikings could always use help in the secondary, he’ll help right now. For a team that was so good all season on both sides of the ball, I think the Vikings could get youth at any position and feel good about it. That being said, I still think it’s Robinson.
31. Indianapolis Colts: Vladimir Ducasse: The Colts won’t go receiver, they don’t need RB help, and they are pretty much solid everywhere. They could always use warm bodies on defense where the team seems to sift through injuries, and a guy like Brandon Spikes or even Brandon Graham could go here. But I like this kid’s upside, and from what I read he has some great intangibles. The Colts are always looking to grab great upside.
32. New Orleans Saints: Jared Odrick, DT, Penn State: This guy and Sedrick Ellis will clog up the middle, and bring a consistent inside pass rush for a long, long time. The Saints get a great player if Odrick falls to them.

That’s right, just one quarterback. My honest opinion is that Bradford is the only guy worth dipping a number one pick one, and none of the teams late in the draft should be loosing a 1st rounder to get a quarterback. If a trade down happens, sure, I can see that – but predicting a trade right now is straight ludicrous.

2010 NFL Mock Draft – Lucky Lesters Mock Draft

I’ve always thought that a pre-end of season mock draft is crazy. There’s so much time to go, shoot, we don’t even know which underclassmen are for sure and which ones are just flirting with the big show. But we have ideas, thoughts, predictions, and all that junk, and since this is just fiction and fortune telling at it’s best, I might as well get in on all the fun. Here’s my own mock draft, which player I would pick if I was the team on the clock. I’ll tell you one thing, it will take me a hell of a lot less time to make my draft happen then it will during the actual draft. As is, right now, pre-free agency signings and trades and combine and everything – this is what I’ve got…. This is my only Mock Draft that is solely based on the team’s needs and my opinion of where the team should go. After this, it’s all fortune telling! (* indicates that the exact draft order for these positions is still up to a coin flip)

Lucky Lester’s 2010 NFL Mock Draft

1. St. Louis Rams: Ndamukong Suh:The biggest baddest sure thing star in the draft. I know some find it wrong to take a DT #1 overall, and that’s all fine and dandy, but this is the DT you take #1 overall because he would fit a huge need, help a bad defense, and is the best player in college football. The big cat almost won the Heisman as a freaking defensive tackle. He’s a no-brainer for me.
2. Detroit Lions:Gerald McCoy: This beast of a tackle would have been a Top 10 pick last season, but he stayed in school – unlike some other Oklahoma Sooners, this season only upped his stock, as McCoy gained strength and speed and proved even more dominating than before. He has the ability to be a force against both the run and pass. This would help the entire Lions defense.
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers:Eric Berry: The Buccos actually have a pretty solid offensive line, a nice youngster at QB that is way ahead of where most expected him to be, and a few running backs that have all had success in the league. I think Dez White is going to be special, and they could use help at receiver, but I would never take a WR in the Top 5 – that’s too much money going to that position.
   
   Defensively, they could stand to gain some youth and explosiveness. I would go D here.They don’t really have a big need at safety, but Eric Berry is one heck of a game-breaker in the secondary – this is a little high for safety, not a spot you want to over pay. So I’m a bit hesitant. They could definitely use some help in the middle of that defensive line, and you can bet they’ll be hoping one of the top D-tackles falls to them at the 3rd spot. In my draft, I was smart, and I drafted those two bigs 1 and 2, so that leaves me in a bit of a quandary here.
   
   I think Joe Haden had a great chance to go here, because corner is a tougher place to find starter-quality players than safety, but my belief in Berry as an elite pro has me taking the Tennessee safety here.
4. Washington Redskins:Sam Bradford: The Redskins need offensive linemen bad, but it’s hard for me to believe that the best offensive line prospect, Russell Okung, will be drafted by Mike Shanahan. Shanny, or Splinter, as I call him, has always had a thing for linemen with elite footwork and quickness.
   
   Okung is one hell of a player, but he’s not an elite athlete at the position. He’ll fit in most offenses, but at #4, it’s hard for me to see Shanny grabbing a guy that doesn’t fit the bill. What I do think Splinter has been good at is grabbing QBs. He’s a pretty good judge of talent there, though I’m not sure my favorite, Sam Bradford, has the arm strength master Splinter wants in a signal caller. Oh the tough decisions.
   
   If I were the Redskins, I would trade down. I’m sure there will be a team wanting to get here to grab their favorite signal caller, and the Skins need help in a few places. Still, no trades for me, I’m not that good of a mock drafter, so I’ll take Sam Bradford. I think he is by far the best QB in the class, and though he doesn’t have John Elway or Jay Cutler arm strength, I think his future is bright.
5. Kansas City Chiefs:Russell Okung: The Chiefs and coach Todd Haley could try to bolster their offense, which was 23rd in points scored and 25th in total yards in his first season as the head man. KC has compiled one heck of a coaching staff this off-season, hiring a couple big name former ex-Patriots’ staff members in Romeo Crennel (DC) and Charlie Weis (OC). Last year, the Chiefs went heavy defense, using thier first 3 picks on two defensive linemen and a corner. It didn’t help much as they were 29th in points give up and 30th in yards allowed. Yikes.
   
   Considering their rushing resurgence over the final weeks of the season, and how that might be the only thing they have going for them, I’m sticking with my offense and grabbing Russell Okung. He’s a big bad man, and a guy that would help the Chiefs keep Matt Cassel off his ace and continue that rushing attack. He’s a mauler.
6. Seattle Seahawks: Anthony Davis: The Rutgers offensive tackle has the tools to be an elite left tackle in the NFL. Face it, the Hawks have needed help along the offensive line for a long time. They could go defense here, sure, but the D-line is deep in this draft, and amongst the top O-line prospects, I think Davis has the best feet and thus the best upside. If I were the Hawks, I would love to see Sam Bradford, Eric Berry, or one of the D-Tackles here, but I’ll certainly settle for upgrading a position that is almost always the determining factor between playoff teams and those watching after Week 17 – offensive line success is a must! And in that spot, I’m looking for upside, not brute force.
7. Cleveland Browns: Dez Bryant: I know this is higher than everybody else has the WR going, but he’s an elite pro prospect at the position. His “situation” this year is hardly a knock on his draft stock, and he was dominating during the season before his suspension. I think his size and speed as well as his ability to react to the ball make him an awesome prospect, one of the best since Calvin Johnson. Not that it matters, because this is MY DRAFT, but those that don’t think Holmgren would waste a pick on a WR here, give me a break, he traded a 1st rounder for Deion Branch, drafted Koren Robinson, and sees a need for an elite play-maker in a suspect passing game. Seems to fit.
8. Oakland Raiders: Trent Williams: This is a tough, “What would I do” pick – I mean, if I were Al Davis, I would take out my batteries and fade away into oblivion, but that’s hardly part of “draft strategy” or is it? As is, I’m not taking into account the crazies that run these teams, so I’m going for what I’d go with. Derrick Morgan is a possibility, but he didn’t always impress me, and G-Tech defensive ends (seems like there’s always one great pass rusher on that team) scare me. So I’m waiting to draft him.
   
   I think Trent Williams intrigues me here. I’m not enamored with either of the other two top quarterbacks, and while JaMarcus Russell has about as bright of a future as Al Davis himself, you can’t go wrong with Trent Williams. He’s a big strong tackle that can help immediately, and I promise he’ll make ten times the impact of a guy like, say, Darius Heyward-Bey….
9. Buffalo Bills: Bruce Campbell: The Bills need help everywhere, no doubt, and you can bet their new staff will be turning every stone to acquire more draft picks or get the one guy here that can really help them move forward. I really like Joe Hadden, still the best player on my board, and has been for a while, but this team has some great young corners, especially last year’s 2nd round pick, Jairus Byrd – the guy nabbed 9 interceptions in his rookie season. Nasty. This team actually isn’t bad defensively. Numbers will tell you they stink, and they could definitely sure up that run-defense, but having an offense that scores no points and gets no yards puts a defense in bad spots. I think the Bills could take a chance on Jimmy Claussen here.
   
   But I wouldn’t go that direction. The Bills need to run the ball, and especially with the run-game guru signed up as head coach, there are some good fits in this draft. I think Bruce Campbell’s quickness and footwork make him a great upside pick, and while this may be a little early, I’m looking for good, solid, franchise players that will help these teams. Bruce fits the bill.
10. *Jacksonville Jaguars: Joe Haden: Perfect fit, great player, great value, a big need for a low-level pass defense that needs help in the secondary. There’s not much to say about this except the Jaguars will be really damn lucky if Haden falls to them.
11. *Denver Broncos: Rolando McClain: There’s not much I have to say besides that this kid is one of the best football players I watched on the college level this season. I’m not ready to say this is one of the biggest needs the Broncos have, or that I can justify this pick over a defensive end and physical specimen like Carlos Dunlap, but McClain is a beast and would certainly give this team a lot of options at line-backer. I think he makes the entire defense more physical and athletic.
12. Miami Dolphins: Jason Pierre-Paul: In the mold of a Jason Taylor more than a Joey Porter, this physical freak of nature could become exactly what a 3-4 defense wants at the pass rushing end. He has the physical tools to dominate and has the motor to make it happen. I think this is a great upside pick for a defense looking for big plays.
13. San Francisco 49ers: Earl Thomas: I would consider Colt McCoy if I didn’t love Nate Davis’s game. That’s right, the kid that didn’t play for the 49ers this year has a bright future, and sooner than later that will be realized. As for this next season, they 49ers probably find a way to stick with Alex Smith, they owe themselves that much. And I think they should, they have bigger needs now than quarterback.
    
    C.J. Spiller is intriguing if they are going to go against Mike Singletary’s initial hopes and run the spread, the guy could be a huge game breaker for them, but come on, Frank Gore is an all around beast, so Spiller is out. Derrick Morgan is still there, but I’m not sure he translates to a 3-4 defensive end or an outside linebacker, either way, the 49ers are pretty stout up front on D and while his value is high, I think the Niners are closer to being good than needing to build.
    
    I think Mike, and myself as well (if I was running the Niners) would like to be stronger up front, but I’m not sure the value fits that position here. In the end I go with Earl Thomas. The 49ers are great against teh run, but Earl could really help them cover some ground in the secondary. He clogged passing lanes for a great Texas defense and I think he’ll do it at the next level as well.
14. Seattle Seahawks: Derrick Morgan: I would have loved Earl Thomas here, for the Hawks, because they need help in that secondary bad. Taylor Mays could be the guy, and I’m this close to pulling that trigger, but the Pete Carol/USC roots thing is just too good to be true, even for a mock draft. But hey, Derrick Morgan with the 14th pick is an absolute steal, and so is Carlos Dunlap, both options that are, amazingly enough, still sitting around waiting to hear their names called here.
    
    I think quarterback can wait, and since the Hawks already grabbed an offensive lineman earlier in this round, help on the defensive line seems like a good move. I like Derrick Morgan’s motor, and even as a GT D-end, his strength against the pass and run seems too good to pass up in the middle of Round 1. I don’t see Carrol, a defensive guru, moving to a 3-4, something he didn’t run at USC – and he’s already loaded at linebacker, so if he did that, this pick wouldn’t make sense.
15. New York Giants: Carlos Dunlap: The Giants could use some push on defense. I think Dunlap’s size and physical upside makes him a great selection for a Giants team that definitely lost a bit of their defensive punch as the season went forward. This team had a lot of injuries, and I’m not sure they have terrible need anywhere, which makes Dunlap, and his upside, an even better selection.
16. *San Francisco 49ers: Brian Bulaga: Jimmy Claussen is still on the board here, but I would still do my best to steer clear. I like Brian Bulaga… This big offensive tackle has the feet I want in an offensive lineman, and he hasn’t reached his full potential yet. Yes, I like OL guys that don’t rely too heavily on overpowering college defensive linemen throughout their NCAA careers – because in the NFL, that won’t always be an option. Bulaga has the footwork to be special, and should help an struggling run-game from the get go. The Niners definitely make the most of their two mid-round picks.
17. *Tennessee Titans: Brian Price: Offensively, I actually think the Titans are stout. They could reach for a special tight end, and I think this draft has plenty to choose from, but I personally don’t believe in 1st round tight ends. Especially because Vince has a nice relationship with Bo Scaife, and they’ve shown that on the field. The team definitely needs pass rush help, as the time opposing quarterbacks got when they dropped back definitely effected the defense and their 31st ranking against the pass. They could get that at end, but the best defensive lineman on the board is Brian Price. Price might not be a freak of nature, isn’t 6′8″ and 320 pounds with a 50 inch vertical or anything, but the guy clogs holes, disrupts quarterbacks, and causes ruckus on the football field. The Titans need that.
18. Pittsburgh Steelers: Everson Griffen: Obviously offensive line is something I rate high, and the Steelers need help there badly, but my appreciation and respect for what good offensive linemen mean has the top 5 gone by pick 16, two picks before the Steelers draft. This team needs pass-blockers bad, and there’s a good chance one of the top 5 slip. If Bulaga or Campbell or Davis fell this far, I’d have them in black and gold in a hurry. As is, there’s no value at OL here, so I have to go another route.
    
    Everson Griffen is an elite prospect that is probably coming out a little too early – but he could be molded into a 3-4 end. This is a team that never has too many concerns about drafting defensive prospects, and some help on the line. Brett Keisel will be in his 9th season, and while he’s still a force, Griffen would be a nice selection if the Steelers believe he can become that rush end in their base defense.
19. *Houston Texans: Patrick Robinson: The Texans need help in the secondary, some way, some how. They’ve invested a lot into the defensive line, and they have some great upside there. The kids are growing up and now they need some lock-down players on the outside. I don’t know if Patrick Robinson is a Top 20 corner, but he’s close, and he definitely will help make plays for the Texans on the outside. Houston could go for help at linebacker, or even grab a guy like Taylor Mays, but I think Robinson helps them in a place of need, and he’s a lot better than option 3 at CB – value both for the team and in the draft.
20. *Atlanta Falcons: Taylor Mays:The kid is an absolute specimen. His size and speed are an uncanny pair, and he was one of the best defensive players in college football two seasons ago. This season, he got caught out of position a few times, and definitely was trying to do too much. But a kid, and his upside, doesn’t change that much in a year, and this guy is a top 10 pick in that department. He’s a playmaker, a helper against the run, a destroyer looking for big hits in the secondary. I think the Falcons could use all of that, and I think this is a steal here.
21. Cincinnati Bengals: Jermaine Gresham: I said I don’t like 1st round TE’s and I wasn’t lying, but just like any drafter, I have my value price where I just can’t pass a guy up. Gresham is more of an elite wide receiver than a TE, similar to a guy like Witten, Gates, Tony Gonzalez, at least in terms of upside. The Bengals have never had a TE with that kind of ability, and without an elite WR right here for the Bengals to grab (for an offense that was definitely lacking explosiveness in the passing game) I think Gresham is a great pick.
22. New England Patriots: C.J. Spiller: I don’t see what’s taking Bill Belichick so long. The Patriots love to pass the ball, and they love to pass it short, why not have one of the most feared open space players in the draft come in and make the most out of Tom Brady’s ability to read defenses, and take advantage of mis-matches. Spiller is a mis-match to big play waiting to happen. I know he doesn’t fit the normal Patriot mold, but what does that mean anyway? Does it mean they haven’t drafted one in a while? I see Spiller as a double digit touchdown guy in the NFL – the Pats could use that at the RB position.
23. Green Bay Packers:Sergio Kindle: I just can’t see a team like Green Bay passing on a guy like Kindle. I think the Packers are in a great spot, they don’t need much, but Kindle is a great piece to a 3-4 defense because of his ability to just flat out make plays. I know the Packers have plenty of players at linebacker, but I’m not sure any of them is as good a pair as Kindle would be to Clay Matthews. Kindle’s explosive nature would be yet another piece for a fast forward Packers defense.
24. Philadelphia Eagles: Navorro Bowman: The Eagles could definitely use some sideline to sideline play-making ability from the linebacker spot, some youth, some speed, some all around great play. Bowman is a great linebacker, and he can definitely do what the Eagles need him to do. He’s not a great guy to fight off blocks, but if the Eagles can let him roam, he’ll make plays all over the field.
25. Baltimore Ravens: Brandon LaFell: I think LaFell is going to be one heck of a receiver. I think a receiver’s stats in college can often be thrown right out the window, especially if they are part of a really special passing attack or a really terrible passing attack. LaFell can mark down himself as a victim of the latter, but I still think he has #1 upside. The Ravens could get depth in a lot of places, or they could go for the gusto and see if one of the late 1st to 2nd round receivers fits like a glove. I think LaFell is a good choice.
26. Arizona Cardinals: Brandon Spikes: I don’t know what the Cardinals will need more. They have lots of holes, I know that. Dansby is a question mark, will he be back, will he be happy? Kurt Warner? Retiring? Anquan Boldin? Traded? Bertrand Berry retired, I know that, so the Cardinals could definitely use an end. I’m going for one hell of a football player to replace Carlos Dansby. I know Carlos does lots of things for the Cardinals, and I’m not sure that Spikes will get those all done right off the bat – but he’s a difference maker at the ILB position, and the Cardinals could use some more pop, especially if Dansby hits the road.
27. Dallas Cowboys: Ricky Sapp: I’m not sure what the Packers really need. They have a three-headed monster at running back, one highly paid under-performer at receiver but teamed with an underpaid pro-bowler makes it a pretty solid position. Then you have one of the best TEs in the league, a great young quarterback, and offensive line that is good (but needs youth) – then you have that defense that is really maturing in the secondary while staying as powerful as ever up front. Tough to find a hole.
    
    I think the Cowboys have room to grab the best player available, and the only problem is, I think that’s an OLB named Ricky Sapp. They are loaded at OLB, and I don’t know if there’d be room for Sapp to play, unless they Boys got rid of either Ware or Spencer, both of which are elite OLBs. Jahvid Best is another guy that is high on my list, as is Ryan Matthews, but it’s tough to see the Cowboys going RB. I’m not sure if any of the DL prospects would fit nicely in that 3-4 as a lineman. So without further ado, I’m just going to go on ahead and select Sapp – he’s the best player on my board and I don’t love any O-line guys right at this spot. I think Sapp is a steal, I don’t know how I didn’t pick him earlier.
28. San Diego Chargers: Jonathan Dwyer: Obviously LT isn’t likely to come back, and I think Dwyer is the best power back in the draft. He played an interesting FB type position at Georgia Tech, and he wasn’t as leaned on during his last season with the Jackets, but Dwyer is a beast and I think he has the power and quick burst to be a very good starting running back in the NFL. He’s a great match with a guy like Darren Sproles, the heavy deep fried dough to the sprinkles and frosting that make a doughnut. What can I say, I’m on pastry thoughts here.
29. New York Jets: Golden Tate: The Jets have some good players at receiver, and Edwards and Cotchery both have good size and speed – and I don’t know what Tate will “measure” out at, but I have to be honest, I don’t care. Golden Tate should get a weekly thank you letter from Charlie Weis that says, “I’d like to thank you for getting me a job as an offensive coordinator after I got fired. You are the reason I looked good when I did.” Tate might not have great size or speed or whatever you want to have for receivers – but he does do one thing, he goes and gets the ball and he makes magic happen. The kid was unstoppable and he made Jimmy Claussen look really good on some “up for grabs” balls. I think the Jets could really use a guy like him in their run first, big pass play offense.
30. Minnesota Vikings: Dan Williams: The original Williams’s aren’t going to be around forever, and Dan Williams is a heck of a defensive lineman and the name fits – but that’s just coincidence, I promise. He may not be a dead ringer for one of the Wild Things, but he’s a big bad man with an extremely strong lower body, and built in the mold to take up space and fight for position. The Vikings need back-ups for exactly that.
31. Indianapolis Colts: Bruce Carter: Bottom line, Bruce Carter is a machine. The Colts seem to plug new players in all the time, and this guy seems like he’ll fit the bill. Carter is a little undersized, but the Colts probably won’t mind, shoot, he’ll fit right in. This guy was a big reason why the UNC Tar Heels were a defensive force in the ACC – his speed and ability to move to the ball would make him an ideal guy in Indy’s defensive schemes.
32. New Orleans Saints: Brandon Graham: I think Graham might fit that Colts edge rusher ideal better – I mean he’s a little undersized, probably won’t measure out as an elite prospect, but just does everything he can to get to the quarterback and make tackles in the backfield. His production this season, on a team that wasn’t very good at winning football games, was just down right scary. I think Graham continues his production at the next level, and the Saints could use more motor and pass rushing prowess. Even if he’s not the ideal size, I see him as the best fit for the Saints.

The NFL Mock Draft (New Mock!!!)

Alright, news and notes are flying around, and the draft is a month away. I can’t wait. My newest mock draft takes into account the most recent happenings in the NFL (as of March 24th), how I rank the players, as well as team needs, team histories, and the dirt on what’s been going down during workouts and scout evaluations. Dream big!!!

1. Detroit Lions- Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia: The Lions probably have to take Stafford here. I don’t like the pick for them, I think they can wait to get a quarterback next year, or even later in the draft, but it is what it is, and they have no future stud quarterback and they are a floundering franchise, and they have the top pick in a class that has no clear number one – so they’ll do what almost any other franchise would do in that situation and grab the big upside quarterback, and they’ll likely find themselves right back in this spot next year with a quarterback that they’re still not sure about, but maybe there will be a number one that seperates himself, and hopefully for the Lions that isn’t Sam Bradford. As much as I hate to admit it, Stafford is probably the pick the Lions will choose. Seeing as though the Lions will likely have a shot at a solid OT with the 20th pick, because it’s a deep position, they probably have to make this move. Stafford teaming up with Britton or Oher  makes more sense than Jason Smith and Josh Freeman, in my opinion. I would take Jason Smith here and a stud defensive prospect at #20, but I’m a front line guy – I don’t build teams the Lion way…

2. St. Louis Rams- Jason Smith, OT, Baylor: I thought the Rams would make a pick like this even before they released one of the better offensive tackles of all time, Orlando Pace. With the big OT gone, they’ll take their pick of the deepest position in the draft. Jason Smith looks to have the most upside and the best motor, a fantastic combo for your QB protector to possess, and thus he’ll likely go here.

3. Kansas City Chiefs- Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest: The Chiefs need to get better in more than a few places, and they’ll likely consider taking offensive line help here. But, with a defensive difference maker available for one of the league’s worst defenses, a guy that many consider the best overall talent in the draft, Curry seems to be the best fit at #3.

4. Seattle Seahawks- Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia: Seeing that the defensive tackle spot wasn’t very deep, and probably deciding that they didn’t want to throw their 4th pick at B.J. Raji, the Hawks went ahead and traded one of their playmaking linebackers to pick up a solid young DT that has upside. That leaves the Hawks in a great place to get better where they need help the most. They’ll take either Aaron Curry or Eugene Monroe. I have the Chiefs grabbing Curry at 3, which will get Monroe, the most polished and consistent left tackle in the draft, a plane ticket to Sea-Tac.

5. Cleveland Browns- Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas: First of all, I wouldn’t be surprised if Mangini and the Browns make a move that changes their need and or pick selection heading into the draft. Right now lets assume that all the players on the Browns roster stay in Cleveland. If that’s the case, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Brian Orakpo go here. Mangini took a chance on a hybrid backer last year, and Orakpo is a much better player with more “now” skills than Vernon Gholston was, and he has the same sack happy upside as last year’s top pick.

6. Cincinnati Bengals- B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College: Cincinnati needs defensive help. I don’t think they could make a better pick at this point than Raji. B.J. is a beast and has excelled in key off-season areas such as the senior bowl and the combine. Put that performance together with his hard work at Boston College and you have a great prospect at one of the draft’s weakest positions. This might be too smart of a pick for the Bengals.

7. Oakland Raiders- Andre Smith, OT, Alabama: Not even God knows what Al Davis and the Raiders will do now. Some like to think that Michael Crabtree will be the guy, and while he certainly is the most popular and well known prospect here, I’m not so sure he’s even Al’s favorite WR prospect. That might go to lightning quick Maclin or physical freak Darrius Heyward-Bey. That being said, I think the Raiders stun the masses, skip over elite skill players, and grab Andre Smith. The big tackle has seen his stock tumble a bit, but I wouldn’t be surprised one bit if he finds his way into the Top 10. The Raiders don’t seem to care much about character, and personality aside, Smith is one of the most talented big men in this draft.

8. Jacksonville Jaguars- Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech: The Jaguars should count their blessings if Crabtree falls to them. It’s not often that you get an elite offensive NFL talent in a position you desperately need. There are a few people with their heads slammed directly up their hoo-hoo’s that think the Jaguars need to go quarterback here. Because Garrard is 31. Please. This isn’t running back here, and it’s not like Garrard failed last season without any real receiving threats and no offensive line. The Jaguars could take Oher or maybe even an awe inspiring selection of Rey Maualuga, amongst many others, but Crabtree is everything they’ve asked for since Jimmy Smith got caught in the life cycle aging process.

9. Green Bay Packers- Aaron Maybin, DE, Penn State: The Packers seem like they’re looking for more of a “now” player than Aaron Maybin might be, but I really like the Penn State product. The Packers might be choosing between him and Everett Brown, and while I like Brown’s athleticism, I happen to think Maybin’s upside is greater. Both are young players that need some time. but Maybin could be special and the Packers should go that direction.

10. San Francisco 49ers- Mark Sanchez, QB, Southern California: If the Raiders go dumb and take the most impressive 40-time or just find better value in another positioin, that might leave Andre Smith here for Iron Mike and the 49ers. If that’s the case, I don’t see them passing up on the big OT even though his “work ethic” might not roll with the former Bears great. However, Mike can motivate a mole to sunbathe, so one of the most talented OTs in the draft at pick 10 would make sense. Since he’s not here in my mock, that leaves two choices I see the 49ers choosing between – Mark Sanchez and Jeremy Maclin. I like Shaun Hill, but he’s not a future pro-bowler by any means. Sanchez has the leadership and work ethic that Mike Singletary and his staff would love. Maclin would give the team a nice gamebreaking option on a team that relies too heavily on Frank Gore. For a team building for the future, Sanchez gets the nod. All in all, there might be a couple teams looking to shoot up to grab Sanchez. If there’s an option out there, the 49ers could pass on the SC product.

11. Buffalo Bills- Everette Brown, DE, Florida State: If there’s any team that needs defensive playmakers as much as the Detroit Lions, it’s the Buffalo Bills. Everett Brown might be a bit of a tweener, but he’s a physical freak of an athlete that does everything he can to put pressure on opposing backfields. Brown could play OLB for the Bills, but could immediately give them pass rush help on passing downs.

12. Denver Broncos- Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU: If there’s a dying breed of player it’s the DE in a 3-4 scheme. With pass rushers getting faster and more athletic, the big space eating ends that do it all have almost disappeared. Jackson is the only real player out there with a first round grade. The Broncos need a lot of help, mostly on the defensive side of the ball, and Jackson looks like a great fit to start his career with first year coach Josh McDaniels in Denver.

13. Washington Redskins- Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi: The Redskins could stun a few folks here by grabbing Jeremy Maclin. Maclin would be a nice number 2 option, the one they were looking for when they spent two first day picks on receivers that disappointed last year. He would allow Randel-El to work in the slot where he’s more effective, and relieve some deep help on Santana Moss. However, I think the Redskins give their young receivers another year to establish themselves and take a chance on an elite offensive tackle prospect in Michael Oher. They need help protecting the quarterback, if you watched them in the 2nd half of 2008, that fact is obvious. Oher might have moments where he shows his youth, but those team with moments of greatness.

14. New Orleans Saints- Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State: If the Saints draft a running back here, you can’t even begin to imagine the failing grade I’ll give them on draft day. They have a great pass catching back in Reggie Bush, one they spend a ton of money on. They also have an even better back in Pierre Thomas, one they don’t seem to like much despite his elite production when given a chance. Beanie Wells is still on the board, but if they know what’s good for them, the Saints will leave him there. Maclin is also available, and you never know what Payton will trick his GM into doing, but Jeremy should stay on the board as well. This team needs to take a chance on defense, and get their offensive help later in the draft. Brain Cushing, Peria Jerry, or Michael Jenkins are three options I like here, with Jenkins being the best for the Saints. He may not have timed out well in the 40, but he has great ability to help a defense that stinks at just about everything.

15. Houston Texans- Brian Cushing, OLB, Southern California: Could the Texans draft Jeremy Maclin? A kid whose gamebreaking ability projected higher than this pick in the draft? The Texans have solid offensive talent, and they probably don’t “need” Maclin, but what a tandem that could be… Still, that’s my fantasy hopes busting into my real football knowledge, and that’s very unlikely to happen. What else is unlikely to happen? The Texans taking a running back this high, so those who expect Beanie or Knowshon to be a Texan, think again. I think the Texans could improve if they got help at defensive end, and maybe outside linebaker (though I do like Xavier Adibi and his future with the club). Brian Cushing could be an immediate impact guy, a linebacker that is effective on all downs – something that shouldn’t be overlooked. I think Cushing is a bit of a reach here, but he fits. A freak like Michael Johnson could really benefit from all the attention Super Mario gets, but he’s even more of a reach because of his inconsistency. I think Cushing fits the bill here.

16. San Diego Chargers- Rey Maualuga, ILB, Southern California: What a difference a year makes. The Chargers came into the ‘08 draft with the “pick the best player, we don’t have any huge needs” thing going for them, and everyone thought they’d be a Super Bowl contender. As it turned out, they struggled like a fish out of water just to make the playoffs, but once they got there it looked like they belonged. But the off season hasn’t done much to secure the make-up of this team. Merriman is expected to be back after missing most of the ‘08 season, and LT fixed his contract which allowed him to stay. Darren Sproles looks to get more touches in 2009, but the Chargers could still use some help making holes for their two headed running back monster. With LT back, I don’t think the Chargers will waste an early pick on a running back, no need to spend another 6 million on the RB position. Vincent Jackson’s immergence, Antonio Gates greatness, and Chris Chambers’ consistency seems to keep any focus off the skill positions in Round 1, even though it’s not all about needs. If Jenkins falls this far, they have to grab the corner/safety. He’s too solid to pass up for a team that ranked 31st in pass defense and I think he could play anywhere for them. They could take a shot on a guy like Vontae Davis but I wouldn’t go there.  I think they end up taking Rey Maualuga. The USC product is a tackling machine, and they could really use a sure thing in the middle of their defense.

17. New York Jets- Beanie Wells, RB, Ohio State: Coles absence and Maclin falling right into their laps gives the Jets a great option here. They could go for Freeman if they really think he could be the long term answer, but Maclin is a big time game breaker that can do things most players can’t. He’d help the field position game and allow the Jets to use Cotchery’s skill set more appropriately. At 17th overall, this kid might be a steal for the Jets. However, the I have this feeling that the Jets might grab the first running back in the draft. Thomas Jones is talking hold out, and he wants a raise (and probably deserves one, despite his age), so they could cut him loose and draft a back with all the talent in the world. This would allow them to use Leon Washington more, a guy that has proven his worth when he gets the touches. Thunder and Lightening? Lots of ways the Jets could draft under their new staff – but I’m throwing my wild card out there with the OSU big back.

18. Chicago Bears- Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland: Heyward-Bey is a physical specimen, no doubt about that – but there’s not doubt in my mind that Maclin is the better receiver. However, in Chicago this big bad fast son of a gun might be the perfect fit. He and Devin Hester could prove to be a tough combo to cover. If Mark Sanchez is still here, I think the Bears go with the USC product. As is, they are looking for more explosion and while Bey might not be the immediate answer, his upside and elite numbers likely get him the nod in Chicago.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri: More than a few people have Josh Freeman going here. I don’t think that’s the best move for the Bucs, especially with an elite prospect falling into their laps. Antonio Bryant did big things in Tampa last season, but Maclin would only assure the explosive nature of the offensive weapons being gathered in Tampa. This team has a solid offensive line, so nice running options, and will have a nice plethora of receiver options with Kellen Winslow, Bryant, and Maclin. Probably not a need, but the best prospect on the board is Maclin if the speedster falls this far.

20. Detroit Lions (from Dallas)- Jerry Peria, DT, Mississippi: The Lions traded a promising young defensive tackle to grab perrenial Pro-Bowl OLB Julian Peterson from the Hawks. Getting this quick underrated tackle would be a great bargain because after Peria the talent level at the position really drops off. The Lions need lots of options, no doubt about that, they could go with a project like Robert Ayers, OT Eben Britton, or if they decided to go with Jason Smith in Round 1, Josh Freeman maybe? Like I said, there will be a lot decided by draft day, but as is Peria would be a nice pick for the Lions here, especially with the strengths of the draft the way they are.

21. Philadelphia Eagles- Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia: I see Moreno as a Maurice Jones-Drew type runner, a smaller back that runs with elite physicality and power. A guy that is super quick and not afraid of contact at the same time. Moreno has all the athleticism to be a run and catch player for the Eagles, and while Philly has always looked for a big back to compliment Westy, they may walk right into the Brian Westbrook of the future. They don’t run exactly the same, but I do think Moreno has a high ceiling. Now, it’s unlike the Eagles to grab a running back in the 1st round, they are usually more interested in line moves, but even if the don’t go with Moreno here, I don’t think they’ll go for the line. Robert Ayers is an interesting option, but Brandon Pettigrew is my wild card. The big TE does it all, and with L.J. Smith moving teams (and having been hurt for more than a few games over the last couple years), Brandon could be a nice option for McNabb in the passing game. Still, I like Moreno’s fit in Philly.

22. Minnesota Vikings- Percy Harvin, WR, Florida: What a threat Percy could be as a change of pace guy with Adrian Peterson and a receiver both out of the back field, out wide, and in the slot. Harvin has freakish moves in the open field, and definitely will be a difference maker when healthy in the NFL. Do the Vikings need Harvin? I’m not so sure, but the fact that they went after T.J. Houshmanzadeh makes me think this is a possibility. Harvin and AP would form a disturbing duo for opposing defenses, and that’s something the Vikings could look forward too. And instead of stealing carries from AP, both could spend every down on the field together, with Harvin split out wide.

23. New England Patriots- Clay Matthews, OLB, Southern California: The Patriots need an outside linebacker, definitely, but there’s more than a few and though Matthews has been climbing the board like slick bottle rocket, I’m not sure that he’ll be a lock for New England at 23. It wouldn’t stun me for a second to see the Pats grab a guy like Brandon Pettigrew. He’s a very good blocker with very good hands and a great frame for red-zone activities and physical first downs through the air. He may not fit everything they do offensively, but a football player that does everything well seems like something they dig. As is, I think they go for Clay Mathews here because of his similar skill set. He does things well. He has a chance to start from Day 1 in New England, and this is a team ready to win now.

24. Atlanta Falcons- Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois: Lots of players to choose from for the talented yet youthful Falcons. I think Brandon would be a great fit for a run-first team that keeps their tight end blocking most of the time, but would love to have a useful option to sneak out into passing situations when needed. Pettigrew doesn’t run with the speed of an elite pass catcher, but he’s athletic, has great hands, and is one hell of a blocker. And I don’t think the Falcons would trade the third one for great speed, not the way they run their offense. That being said, Pettigrew is a TE, and I don’t know if the Falcons have enough talent to go tight end in Round 1. He may be more of a sure thing, but the Falcons need defensive help something fierce. They lost two starting linebackers and a starting corner on a defense that wasn’t elite to start with. So lets say they can’t afford to go TE here. Assuming that, Vontae Davis is on the board, and despite his knocks, he’s one of the more physically talented corners in the draft. That’s enough to take him at 24, something the Falcons might very well do.

25. Miami Dolphins- Robert Ayers, DE, Tennessee: I think Michael Johnson has all the ability to be one of the best pass rushers in this draft. He just needs to find the motivation to do so. Being a top 10 talent and dropping to 25 might be enough. Spending time on a Bill Parcells run team might be even more help. This kid is a freak, and has the athletic ability to even be considered as an OLB in the 3-4, at least I think so. However, I don’t know if a questionable motor guy is Parcells’ cup of tea, and thus he will probably get passed up again here. They could also go for Vontae Davis, as they certainly could use help in that secondary. However, I think they’ll take Robert Ayers. This kid was solid on a bad defense last season. He practices and plays well, and despite his mediocre times at the combine, has proven to be effective on the football field, using his skills and a solid motor. More Parcells style maybe? I think so.

26. Baltimore Ravens- Eben Britton, OT, Arizona: This kid is solid, and this offensive line needs to get some young help (at least for the future) for franchise quarterback Joe Flacco. Britton has great upside and with a monster frame and great quickness, he might be a steal at 26. I’m not sure that he’ll last this long with the importance of tackles and the way they seem to be screaming off the board over the past few years, but if he does go this far, the Ravens would be smart to grab him. Other options could be Vontae Davis, or maybe they go for an even bigger project with more freak upside like Michael Johnson – and use that strong willed defense to turn him into a rush linebacker sack artist. As is, I like Britton going here.

27. Indianapolis Colts- Evander “ZIGGY” Hood, DT, Missouri: Weird, the Colts are hurting for defensive line help on the interior. Hood is dancing up the draft charts, and for good reason. He’s very athletic and quick for a defensive tackle, and would fit well in the Colts system, if they indeed stay in that system. Some have said they’re looking for more size up front, but Hood is the best available, and the Colts could definitely use him.

28. Philadelphia Eagles (from Carolina)- Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State: Without a tackle to grab here, I wonder if the Eagles will even risk it by taking Moreno with their first of two picks in Round 1. That being said, I’m not going back on my picks because of the way the draft panned out, and the Eagles can go a couple different directions with this pick. They could grab Hakeem Nicks right here. They have a solid young receiver in DeSean Jackson, but Nicks would look nice on the opposite side. Still, they need help on the offensive line, even though they got better by signing Shawn Andrews’ big brother, Stacy, from the Bengals, they could still use a guy like Max Unger for the future. But I’m going with Pettigrew here because the kid is a stud, they just lost an injury plagued L.J. Smith to Baltimore, and Pettigrew not only helps out with the passing game but in the run game as well. He’s more than the 28th best player in this draft. I expect him to help from Day 1.

29. New York Giants- James Laurinaitis, LB, Ohio State: I really like Hakeem Nicks, and while I don’t think the Giants need to run and pick up the best receiver available because of Plax’s situation, I think Nicks is a nice receiver. Receiver galore in Round 1 though? I’m not so sure. Plus, as much as I like Nicks, the guy put on 15 pounds between the combine and pro day workouts, and is up over 225. Don’t be a pig for 30 days, help your draft stock, I mean come on man…. I think they could find a lot to like at the position in Round 2, and should instead build up their line in the draft with a guy like Max Unger or Alex Mack or maybe linebacker. And trading down is always an option, especially if they like a couple receivers here and don’t see need to pick another one in Round 1. All that being thrown about, I think the Giants see something they like in James Laurinaitis and go get him. He’s not great at shedding blocks, but D-line has been a power for the Giants, and James should do good things behind that group.

30. Tennessee Titans- Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech: Could they go receiver here? Yes, they could try once again to snag a competent starting receiver, but it’s a strong position with many players to be had – why would they pass on a chance at the second coming of Javon Kearse (during his freak days of course)? Michael Johnson has that freakish athleticism and size and the Titans can grab the kid and have him learn from some team greats. He won’t be needed on every down right away, and he has upside to burn. I think they skip taking the 5th 1st round receiver and go for upside on the D-line. I like to wait on receivers, so I’m expecting the Titans to pick without fantasy hopes on the line here. Hakeem Nicks might be the guy, but in a weighted coin flip I’m going with Johnson.

31. Arizona Cardinals- Alex Mack, C, California: LeSean McCoy is my favorite here because I love the running back’s vision and acceleration. However, I think adding a great young center, a guy that can play a couple positions and is basically a sure fire solid starter, seems like the right move. They have a young back they like in Tim Hightower, so getting him help up front might be a better move that tossing a first round pick at another back. Later in the draft is the time to add depth, not Round 1. Another option would be Hakeem Nicks if Boldin is traded. I think ‘Quan will sign a deal with the Cards, however, so that’s “a moo point, like a cow’s opinion, nobody cares”. So I’m skipping over my favorite back in the class for one of my favorite O-line leaders.

32. Pittsburgh Steelers- Max Unger, C/G, Oregon: The Steelers will have options. But if the draft unfolds like this, I don’t think they spend another high pick on a receiver, they let Hakeem Nicks fall dreamily into the lap of another suiter in Round 2. They take Max Unger because the Steelers could use O-line depth, and they are a smart franchise. Unger is a beast, he can play multiple positions, and he’s always been the leading force of great Oregon rushing attacks. Last pick in Round 1 should be a great one for the Steel-City.

Best Available After Round 1:

1. Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina

2. LeSean McCoy, RB, Pittsburgh

3. Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest

4. Donald Brown, RB, Connecticut

5. Ron Brace, DT, Boston College

6. Kenny Britt, WR, Rutgers

7. Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas State

8. Phil Loadholt, OT, Oklahoma

9. Louis Delmas, S, Western Michigan

10. Conner Barwin, DE, Cincinnati

11. Darius Butler, CB, Connecticut

12. Clint Sintim, OLB, Virginia

13. Larry English, OLB, Northern Illinois

14. Derrick Williams, WR, Penn State

15. Jamon Meredith, OT, South Carolina

16. Cornelius Ingram, TE, Florida

17. Shawn Nelson, TE, Southern Miss

18. Shonn Greene, RB, Iowa

19. Rashad Johnson, S, Alabama

20. Sean Smith, CB, Utah

21. Andy Levitre, OG, Oregon State

22. Chase Coffman, TE, Missouri

23. Gerald Cadogan, OT, Penn State

24. Patrick Chung, SS, Oregon

25. Mike Thomas, WR, Arizona

2009 NFL Mock Draft: #1

Updated on January 19, 2009

I’m dancing in the streets a little – it’s always nice to see something you never thought would happen, and until Ken Whisenhunt was tricked into coaching the Cardinals, I didn’t think I’d ever see that red jersey and helmet sporting that angry woodpecker in a Super Bowl game. But here we are, a Pittsburgh Steelers team that has won as many championships as any team ever, and an Arizona Cardinals team that looks for a ring for the first time. Awesome. But that pretty much locks up my first full mock draft. I’ll compile the draft as if the Cardinals pull off the huge upset, because, well, they’ve done it 3 times already and I’d be stunned if they did it again – so it will probably happen. The new mock draft is also coming out because the early entry list is locked in and the draft order is basically set. I’m done with my “If I’m making the picks” format because I can really do both predictions and analysis by suggesting what I think the Draft will look like- still, I agree with my ability to judge talent, and a couple teams definitely should call me up for some advice… Haha…  Here goes the goods…

1. Detroit Lions: Andre Smith, OT, Alabama – This pick is exactly what the Lions need, and that’s how I’m doing my first mock draft. This is a team that has gone kookoo over the skill positions and they have been brutal on offensive and defensive lines. I’m sold on the thought that Detroit will get a good football guy to make their personnel decisions and that will lead them away from 1st Round receivers, quarterbacks, or running backs. Andre Smith might not be the guy making the best decisions (getting hooked up with an agent a couple days before his team’s big bowl game) but he is a beast of a man that dominated at the college level. If the Lions want to properly use Calvin Johnson and Kevin Smith, arguably their best players, they’ll have to get some time to throw and room to run. Matthew Stafford (the consensus pick here) has all the tools, but without a better offensive line the Lions will continue to get destroyed. Do the right thing Detroit, go big here, Smith is your guy.

2. St. Louis Rams – Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia - The Rams have lots of problems, no doubt in my mind, they would happily take Smith if he were available here – but he’s not, and nobody wants to trade into the 2nd pick so it’s not like they’ll find a valuable trading partner for the pick. That being said, Matt Stafford is the guy with all the tools that Marc Bulger doesn’t have, end the Marc Bulger experiment…. please.  I personally like Mark Sanchez a little more than Stafford – but the tools Stafford has can’t be taught, and while the Rams need more than a QB in the waiting, the #2 pick is a place where immense talent needs to be selected.

3. Kansas City Chiefs:  Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forrest - I don’t think the Chiefs go quarterback here – it’s stupid, A, and B- Tyler Thigpen played great when he got a chance to do so. Just ride out this guy for a while and hope that you hit the lotto with the kid, weirder things have happened. Plus, with a 30th ranked rushing defense and a 28th ranked passing defense, they might consider getting some dynamic help on that side of the ball first. Still, with Bradford and Stafford on the board it’s tough for me to pass up a chance at a franchise QB, but I’m going to, because I’m smart. Thigpen is good enough right now, he’s got a little something that I like as the guy in charge of my roster, so I’m taking Aaron Curry to be a playmaker on my defense. This guy is one of the surest things in the draft, a football player through and through, and he bleeds intensity. The Chiefs have some speed in their linebacking corps, but they don’t have a guy like this and he’ll immediately come in and make everyone better. This may be a little high for a linebacker, and probably higher than Curry will go, but I’ll take him because I’m looking for the guy that will improve the Chiefs the most, and they need a guy like Aaron.

4. Seattle Seahawks: Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech  - The Hawks need offensive line help badly. I know Michael Crabtree is out there and every single Hawk fan in the world wants Seattle to go get the big stud receiver from Texas Tech – I love Crabtree, think he’ll be  a great one, but you can only win if you have a good offensive line. Monroe is the smart pick – or maybe Jason Smith, and both should be here for the Seahawks taking – but in the end I just can’t pass up on the chance to get an elite playmaker for the Hawks offense. People (like me) will say that Seattle never makes a pick like this, that they have a smart brass that knows how to pick right, that they wouldn’t go skill position at the top of the draft – but, in the end, history is just that – history. Right now is the now, and with that in mind, and the future in the eyes of the same guy that’s watching Crabtree work out, watching him torch defenses at will – watching him become a version of TO without the assish tendencies, I don’t think the Hawks can pass that up – not with the guys they have. Taking skill position guys at the top of the draft can be a recipe for losses to build. You spend too much money on a receiver and it will hurt you in the end if that player doesn’t become great. But I think the Hawks need to go for it.

5. Cleveland Browns:  Malcom Jenkins, CB, Ohio State – The Browns secondary and overall defense was brutal last season. Weird, they went and spent a bunch of money on high-priced free agents and they still got kicked around pretty good. A lot of that has to do with their offense going 3 and out a lot, and putting the defense in bad situations, but still – tackling and angles were tough to come by in Cleveland and I think Jenkins comes in and starts immediately for the Browns. He’s as sure as a corner back can be in helping the run. He’s got great understanding and recognition, things that plague the Browns secondary.

6. Cincinnati Bengals: Aaron Maybin, DE, Penn State – The Bengals need a lot of help in a lot of places, weird. But with Stacey Andrews struggling a bit and his knee giving him problem, and a visit with the doctor for re-constructive surgery in mid-January, it might be time to get a young stud to protect their biggest investment, Carson Palmer. Everyone watched what happened to the Bengals without Palmer – protecting him next season might be a good start. Eugene Monroe has proven he can start anywhere. He’s an athletic kid that held down left tackle for Virginia, and he could do the same in Cincinnati. Either way, I think Monroe would be a good pick this high, a need pick and a talent pick and a good use of their money – But lets just say (for the sake of good health and positive thinking) that the Bengals elect to re-sign Andrews (and they very well could because of his youth and possible good news on the diagnosis of his knee surgery) then they might elect to go for a pass rushing specialist like Everett Brown, Brian Orakpo, or Aaron Maybin – going for the health of the young right tackle, Aaron Maybin goes off the board here because his motor and upside are impressive.

7. Oakland Raiders: Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri - Rey Maualuga is a machine. The Raiders need a guy like him just about as bad as anything – well, aside from a new coaching staff and a new owner and a guy to bring in talent on draft day that doesn’t base everything on some lifting and speed numbers – so they need a lot of things, but a sure tackler at linebacker, and big time playmaker, a special and California taught local kid like Maualuga – I think they’d have something going if they went here. However, I know the Raiders – and Jeremy Maclin or Crabtree (if he lasts) might get pushed to Oakland. I have this eery feeling that if Maclin is on the board for Oakland that he’ll be wearing black and silver come next season. It’s sad for Jeremy – but it’s probably true.

8. Jacksonville Jaguars: Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia – While Michael Oher is a stud, he has shown a lack of focus at times. He’s been beat by lesser defensive ends, and while the talent is obviously there, Oher’s lack of consistency might hurt him in the draft. I have that happening here as Eugene Monroe will get ahead of Oher on draft boards and be the first off the board after Andre Smith. If Maclin is on the board here, the Jaguars might be tempted – they have shown a history of going and reaching for their biggest needs, and they definitely need a playmaker outside. But the Jaguars showed some offensive line (and defensive line for that matter) woes in 2008. Maurice Jones Drew is still phenomenal and David Garrard didn’t have as bad of a season as his numbers insisted, but this team needs some help on their respective lines. Monroe has the ability to get plugged in anywhere he’s needed, and he’ll immediately improve that position. That’s rare in the NFL these days, and even tougher to get in the draft. For a team that needs to reestablish their rushing identity, the Jags could make a great pick right here. Many people expect the Jaguars to go linebacker here, but there’s room to rummage through the next couple rounds to find a playmaker there. The top O-Tackles, while the position is deep, will be gone long before the Jags pick again.

9.  Green Bay Packers: Everett Brown, DE, Florida State – The Packers need to revamp their defensive front. I think Aaron Kampman is a stud, but he needs some help and I think Everett Brown can be a special contributor up front for the Packers. They need help getting to the quarterback and stopping the run. Basically they were a liability on defense. They have plenty of weapons on offense, and while every team could always use help on the line, this pick seems like a no brainer for the Pack – but it could be one of the many defensive end prospects in the draft. I also think that this spot, and this mock, would have the Packers being in a great position with someone who wanted to trade down to get Mark Sanchez – ie the Minnesota Vikings. No trades in my mock though, too tough to figure, so I’ll go with one of the more talent kids out there.

10. San Francisco 49ers:  Mark Sanchez, QB, USC – I like Shaun Hill, like I said in my first mock, but Sanchez is a stud – he has a lightning quick release, great leadership qualities, and a passion for the game that fits perfectly with Mike Singletary’s system. Could the 49ers go in about a million different directions? You bet… Could one of those directions be not re-signing Takeo Spikes and maybe going with Rey Maualuga to form one of the best middle linebacker duos in all of football? Possibly, Rey seems like a Mike kind of guy, but he also seems a lot like Patrick Willis (but could it be bad to have two of him?). Shaun Hill is a solid guy right now, he does enough to keep San Francisco in the game, but Sanchez has tools to be a top pick, and very well could be, but right now I like him going to SF at 10 because that’s a great place to get your future signal caller and not have to play him right off the bat. If Sanchez isn’t their guy, and they love Orakpo, Michael Johnson of Georgia Tech, Maybin or Brown if they are there, don’t be surprised if the Niners snag a pass rusher.

11. Buffalo Bills: Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas – The Bills need more help on the defensive line. They started off the year okay, but they don’t make enough plays and they don’t have any one player that poses an elite pass rushing skill set. Okay, Aaron Schobel is a guy that has some good career numbers, but he spent much of 2008 hurt and is on the wrong side of 30 and the small side of 250lbs. I really like Micheal Johnson of Georgia Tech, but Orakpo is probably the more complete of the two, and the Bills could use that.

12. Denver Broncos: B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College – The Broncos have been brutal at stopping the run for sometime, and it’s very likely that Mike Shannahan’s insistence on grabbing opposing teams leftovers instead of drafting some help up front is what got him fired in the first place. I expect new HC Josh McDaniels to do his damnedest to strengthen the defensive front, and starting with a massive defensive lineman that will free up linebackers while putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks is probably a good start. McDaniels is and offensive mind, no doubt about that, but he’s also a smart guy and while assessing team needs he’ll vouch for the teams offensive firepower and express some worry about that line…  Raji’s 6.5 sacks and numerous runs stuffed will certainly help Denver’s front – character issues might hurt Raji’s stock, but in Denver’s move to the 3-4 they’ll need a player of Raji’s strength to hold down the middle.

13. Washington Redskins: Jason Smith, OT, Baylor - The Redskins will be lucky if they get an offensive line prospect like Jason Smith. The kid knows how to play the game and he really does it right. I think he’s a better pass blocker than Andre Smith, and his athleticism is second to none. At 6′5 305lbs, he’s got room to grow into his body a little bit. He’s not super strong, but that will come – his feet are great and his energy and ability to stay on blocks long are two things that he has over any other elite tackle prospect in the draft. A steal at 13.

14. New Orleans Saints: Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois – Defense, defense, defense. As much as Jeremy Maclin’s speed has to excite this offensive minded freak of a coach in New Orleans, it’s not offensive deficiencies that keep the Saints from getting into the playoffs. Defensively they are brutal, they don’t have much of an identity except that of a team that allows opposing offenses to do anything they damn well please. That’s not a good thing. Right now, the Saints don’t have corners that get the job done. They don’t tackle all that well, and find themselves in positions to make tackles far too often. As far as talent and confidence go, Davis is a corner that comes second to none. He’s a physical kid that likes to get into opposing receivers. He hasn’t had a ton of interceptions at the college level, but I’m going to go ahead and say that’s because opposing offenses don’t throw his way. He may have been too aggressive in college, being allowed to do too much on the field. He’ll get the little things down, but I like what he does have and think he would start immediately for New Orleans.

15. Houston Texans: Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech – How can you play an entire season on the other side of Mario Williams and have absolutely zero sacks to show for it? Weaver is a better run defensive end than a pass rusher, but 0 sacks? Yikes. Johnson might be a little bit of a reach here – but the kid is a freakish pass rusher that could start out helping right away as a pass rush specialist and he has the body to add weight and become a full time guy over time.  The Texans could really use a pass rush option opposite their big dog. With much attention played to their former 1st overall pick, Johnson could find a lot of room to be the playmaker that he is. This would do wonders for the other half of Houston’s defensive line.

16. San Diego Chargers: Chris “Beanie” Wells, RB, Ohio State - If the Chargers are indeed getting rid of LaDainian Tomlinson, for age and contract reasons, I think Wells would be a perfect fit to get half of the carries in a time share with Darren Sproles. I, personally, would just keep Tomlinson for another year, go for some offensive line or defensive help here, and grab a running back in next season’s draft or in the later rounds, but I’m taking the plunge here because of Wells ability. Basically, I don’t like taking skill guys early, but Wells has special size, explosion, and speed – and while Sproles has shown a knack for the big play, there is no way he holds up through a season getting 15-20 carries per game. I make exceptions for special players, and while Wells’ injury problems might scare some teams off, I happen to believe that you go for the talent and if freak injuries happen you just got unlucky. If LT is re-signed, I think the Chargers should make a play on

17. New York Jets: Rey Maualuga, LB, USC- To get a guy that can make a difference like Maualuga is always a draft day blessing. To get him in the middle of the 1st round is even more impressive. Can he be Rex Ryan’s New York Jet version of Ray Lewis? It’s possible. I’m not sure anyone this side of William Wallace has ever had as much passion, toughness, and straight super-hero ability like Ray Lewis, but if there’s a guy in this draft that looks anything like Ray, it’s Rey – and not just for names sake. The Jets need to get better defensively – but they could also make a play on a young running back if their top choice sits here. I think Thomas Jones and Leon Washington are good for now, and I think Ryan will be ready to get a defensive stopper right off the bat.

18. Chicago Bears: Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi – Nate Davis? Oh, I think this kid could surprise. But I’m not ready to make that jump quite yet – plus, the Bears “are happy with their quarterback situation” – right. The Bears look to be aging a little bit, and that means they could use all types of players. But if the super-talented Oher is still on the board at 18, the Bears snag him up without thinking twice.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers:  Sen’Derrick Marks, DT, Auburn – Marks is a freak. He’s a superior athlete in the body of a defensive tackle. He’s not enormous, but his tenacity and elite quickness and coordination make him a great prospect and could very well allow him to be great at rushing the passer and making plays against the run. If the Bucs have shown me anything during their late slide that saw them go from 9-3 to 9-7 and missing the playoffs, it’s that they need help on the defensive line. Marks might be the best of the bunch and at 19th overall, he’s worth that risk.

20. Detroit Lions (via Dallas Cowboys):  James Laurinaitis, LB, Ohio State - The Lions need guys like this to do things like win a football game. James is a sure thing. You know what you’re getting, a great tackler, great team guy with the ability to stop the run, read blocks, get his teammates behind him and make everyone better. A great offensive lineman and a great linebacker to be a team leader on defense, that would be a great draft for a team that doesn’t know much about great drafts. The Lions need to stop taking chances and picking skill position players – teams are built on  guys that can block up front and get off blocks and tackle on defense – Andre and James are a good start.

21. Philadelphia Eagles: Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia – Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia – Brian Westbrook #2? After seeing what Brian Westbrook has become since the Eagles drafted the undersized back in the 3rd round years ago, I wouldn’t be stunned if they tried to get him. I know they aren’t a team that usually guns for the skill positions early, but Moreno is special and despite being a little undersized, could be a great option in making the transition to the days without Mr. Westbrook. The Eagles have seen Westy have injury troubles, day to day issues just about every other week, and his age is becoming a little bit of an issue. The Eagles have a bevy of vets, and they surely need to get younger on the offensive line and all over on defense, but this kid is an elite playmaker that you aren’t able to snag in Round 2.

22. Minnesota Vikings: Sean Smith, CB, Utah – Sean Smith played a little under the radar at Utah, but he was a great part of one of the best defenses in college football. He helped shut down the Alabama passing attack, and played good football against the run as well. Smith is an elite player from a small school. The Vikings would help improve their semi-shaky pass defense by adding the Utes ball hawk. Smith has unreal size for a corner, and has shown a knack for making big plays by either intercepting 5 passes or leading his team in passes broken up. Smith could shoot up draft boards after the combine.

23. New England Patriots: Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest – The Patriots find themselves in an interesting place here, and free agency will definitely help decide where they go here. I know Smith is a great playmaker with lots of upside and the personality it takes to be good at the next level. I’m not sure if he fits perfectly into the Patriots system, but he definitely fits a need as almost every corner in New England will see free agency over the off-season. Smith does lots of good things, he’s got solid speed and breaks well on the ball.

24. Atlanta Falcons: Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State – The Falcons might not need Brandon Pettigrew to make life easier on Matt Ryan, but they could sure use him. He’s a good blocker and an even better pass catcher, but the bottom line is he does it all. He may not be a big play guy like Kellen Winslow or Jason Witten, but he’s a great blocker, probably the best blocking tight end in the class. He also has great hands and very good ball skills. He does it all. This guy is just the type of guy Atlanta (or any team in the league) needs.

25. Miami Dolphins: D.J. Moore, CB, Vanderbilt - The Dolphins need help in the secondary, and maybe all over their defense to be honest. They played better than they were early in the year in ‘08, but fell apart a little toward the end and, in my opinion, better exemplified exactly what their biggest problems are. In an offensive heavy draft class, the Dolphins need to build defensively. Moore is a very talented player that shut down #1 receivers all season for Vanderbilt. He’s an opportunistic player with a playmaking ability that could help the Dolphins create turnovers defensively.

26. Baltimore Ravens: Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland - While many people would like to point to Bey as being inconsistent and an underachiever in college, I would like to point to the poor quarterbacking in Maryland this last season. Bey is super talented and could definitely turn into a great pro. I like him more than most. I think he’d fit in in Baltimore, and be a big target that the Ravens need to pit with Mark Clayton and the aging Derrick Mason.

27. Philadelphia Eagles (via Carolina): Ebbin Britton, OT, Arizona – The Eagles need to get younger at lots of different places. Arizona’s offense was underrated this season, being stuck in the Pac-10, where even I admit was underrated. Britton has been road-grading paths for running backs over the last two seasons, and the Wildcats have been better than you’d think in that area. Britton is a big boy with some good quickness and a very football savvy demeanor. I think the Eagels would be bright to grab him before they really need an offensive tackle. Prep him for next season when age finally catches up with the green machine.

28. Indianapolis Colts: Peria Jerry, DT, Mississippi – The Colts really struggled to stop the run, with or without Bob Sanders, and if you can’t stop the run with that heat seeking missile aimed right at the hearts of running backs, then you have to do something a little different. Peria Jerry is a very good defensive tackle that plays with the intensity and knowhow needed to excel in the Colts system. They need to start filling holes if they want to return to the Super Bowl.

29. New York Giants: Percy Harvin, WR/RB, Florida – The Giants need more playmakers. Percy Harvin might be the shiniest playmaker in this draft of offensive firepower. Getting him at 29 would be great. The Giants need them some Percy Harvin just like Flordia does.

30. Tennessee Titans: Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina – He doesn’t have as much upside as Darrius Heyward-Bey, but Nicks might be the better receiver in the NFL. Nicks runs solid routes, his hands or enforced with a special unique stick-em produced only by his body. That catch that everyone saw during the bowl season, that was amazing, but no way was that his only amazing catch. This kid is always open, and I think his game translates well to the next level. He would also make the 5th receiver selected in the first round, which seems like an unreal ammount – but with the lack of underclassmen coming out, and the overall mediocre feeling of this talent pool, matched with the heavy set of receivers and apt running backs, this could be a weird first round with receivers off early.

31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU – Beast. He may not be the “new” defensive end with the pass rushing forte and the speed and the basketball body, but Tyson is a run-stuffing fiend. A kid that is nearly 6′5″ and 300+ – he’s a beast. The Steelers could use a guy like that inside in their 3-4. They have pass rushers galore, and Tyson has above average talent for his size – that’s digable planet business right there.

32. Arizona Cardinals: Brian Cushing, LB, USC – This kid didn’t have great numbers on an impressive USC defense, but he is damn good at just about everything. He can turn in run in coverage, as he was often asked to do, and he can make big plays all over the field. He’s had some durability issues, but the Cardinals would make a good move grabbing a kid with Cushing’s upside – winning the Super Bowl gives you a chance to go with upside like Brian’s.

You can also find updates on the following Mock Draft Databases:
ffToolBox.com
Sports Jabber Mock Draft Database
TheFootballExpert.com
Football Jabber Mock Draft Database

Final 2008 NFL Mock Draft – Round 1

“The FINAL Straw”

It’s draft time, and all this mockery is about to be done with. However, with the draft less than a week away, I figured I might as well snap off my last mock draft. This is how I think it will go down, except for trades. I’m mocking around as if no trades happen. This is how it looks.

1. Miami Dolphins (1-15) – Jake Long, OT, Michigan

The Dolphins already signed Long, so chances are, he makes it official-official on Saturday. I hope the Dolphins don’t take the full 10 minutes – that’d really chap my balls.

2. St. Louis Rams (3-13) – Chris Long, DE, Virginia

It’s between Chris Long and Glenn Dorsey, and I think the talent level is so close that they’ll go for the defensive end with fewer question marks. It doesn’t always pay to be safe, but I think it does in this case.

3. Atlanta Falcons (4-12) – Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU

Absolute stud that could very well be considered the best player in this draft. Yes, that’s right McFadden fans. From the defensive side of the ball, Dorsey is as dominant as any player in the draft.

4. Oakland Raiders (4-12) – Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas

The Raiders signed Fargas to a nice sized contract and have Rhodes and 2nd year player Michael Bush. However, none of those guys has D-Mac upside, and if there’s ever been a perfect Al Davis player, this guy is it. He’ll instantly make the franchise more money – which is important, because, you know, this is a business.

5. Kansas City Chiefs (4-12) – Vernon Gholston, DE, OSU

With Jared Allen gone, Gholston is a nice pick up. He doesn’t have the complete package that Allen had, but he’s the best defensive end prospect left, and I think he’s got as much upside as anyone in this draft. His numbers are grand and he’s had very explosive games against big-time competition.

6. New York Jets (4-12) – Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC

Remember, the Jets are about to trade their starting defensive tackle to the Denver Broncos. With Gholston, Long, and McFadden all gone, this pick seems perfect, plus, Ellis is a stud so the value is good.

7. New England Patriots (16-0) – Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State

I don’t see the Patriots picking here. Somehow, they’ll finagle their way down the draft board, maybe even out of the 1st round altogether. However, if they stay, and I don’t mock trades so they’ll stay in my draft, Ryan Clady has great upside and decent value. He’s the best OT in the draft, in my opinion.

8. Baltimore Ravens (5-11) – Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College

Something tells me Kyle Boller isn’t the guy the Ravens hoped he’d be. Troy Smith didn’t get a chance late last season, so he mustn’t be more than a backup in their minds. Enter the highest rated QB prospect in the draft. Matt could be the savior this team always hoped for.

9. Cincinnati Bengals (7-9) – Keith Rivers, LB, USC

Rivers is legit. His ability to make plays all over the field and use his brain to do the right thing (on and off the field) makes him a great choice for this flailing franchise. Oh, and trade Ocho Dinko.

10. New Orleans Saints (7-9) – Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy

The Saints could use McKelvin as a starting corner right off the bat, because their secondary sucks. Leodis can do many things, and his coverage skills will immediately help a porous Saints defense.

11. Buffalo Bills (7-9) Dominique Rodgers – Cromartie, Tennessee State

The Bills get the most gifted corner in the draft. He may not be polished, and he may give up a few big plays, but it’d be hard to argue anyone’s upside over this small school corner. Everyone knows he has the bloodlines, and the Bills need secondary help.

12. Denver Broncos (7-9) – Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois

The Broncos never pick running backs high, and they need help in more than a couple places, but I happen to think the world of Mendenhall. I thought the same about Maroney, and Splinter said he would have taken Laurence if Cutler was gone. So, this year he takes Rashard.

13. Carolina Panthers (7-9) – Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh

The Panthers are said to love them some enormously powerful and talented left tackle from Pittsburgh. For a team that struggles to protect their quarterback and rarely does any damage on the ground, I can see why Otah would grab their attention.

14. Chicago Bears (7-9) – Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt

The Bears need help on the offensive line desperately, because if they aren’t a threat to run the ball, they are dead in the water. I love Jonathan Stewart but the smart pick would be to lock down a top-tier offensive lineman like Williams. Then anyone can run.

15. Detroit Lions (7-9) – Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida

Mike Jenkins would be a great fit in Detroit. I think he’s the most polished corner in the draft. He does things right. Watching film of him has him moving up my draft board, and I’m sure I’m not the only one.

16. Arizona Cardinals (8-8) – Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida

The Cardinals could use a freak of nature type pass rusher on the outside. Right now, offenses are allowed too much time, putting pressure on their defense. I know DE isn’t the biggest team need, but a guy like Harvey here seems like a great deal.

17. Kansas City Chiefs (via MN) (4-12) – Branden Albert, G, Virginia

The Chiefs got two great cornerstones for their offense. They’d be lucky to get Branden this late, as his stock is flying right now. However, the way things went, two tackles were chosen before him, and he makes his way to Kansas City.

18. Houston Texans (8-8) – Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas

Talib is a great physical corner with ball skills and illusiveness in the return game. He’s a game breaker, something the Texans really need on a blossoming defense.

19. Philadelphia Eagles (9-7) – Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson

There’s a reason the Eagles have tried to pick up every high-profile receiver with a “contract problem” that has requested a trade. It’s because they’ve been through all these receiver prospects and don’t like one enough to take here. So, they go for a defensive end that could help right away against the run and pass.

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7) – DeSean Jackson, WR, Cal

I still like Jackson to go here. You either love him or hate him, and who knows what Chucky is thinking, but I’m willing to believe that a team with Joey Galloway still making big plays in his 30s has to think highly of a guy like Jackson.

21. Washington Redskins (9-7) – Devin Thomas, WR, Mich St.

The Redskins have always needed size and athleticism at the wide receiver slot, and Thomas gives them a great opportunity to pick that up in Round 1. He’s no Chad Johnson, but he’s available, and he only costs one pick.

22. Dallas Cowboys (13-3) (via Cle.) – Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas

Jones may be a bit small but he’s explosive. He’s basically a guy that would give the Cowboys everything they don’t think Marion Barber gives them. He sees the field really well, and there’s not too much wear on those tires.

23. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6) - Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon

I know there’s not a big need here, but Stewart is a superb talent with the size to punish opponents. Pittsburgh has always been a “best player available” type team, and I think Stewart is that.

24. Tennessee Titans (10-6) – Limas Sweed, WR, Texas

I like Malcom Kelly more, but apparently Sweed is higher on most draft boards. His numbers are better, and his body of work is at least as good. I just think Kelly has more upside. The Titans won’t and they’ll make Vince more comfy with his favorite receiver.

25. Seattle Seahawks (10-6) – Kentwan Balmer, DT, NC

Balmer is a very good defensive tackle that received a lot of attention from offensive opponents. He can rush the passer and stop the run. The Hawks always seem to be looking for defensive line help, and a guy from an unheralded team seems to be a great fit here. From about here on out, I wouldn’t be surprised to see one of the quarterback-needy teams make a trade to acquire the 2nd tier signal callers. However, without a trade, Ryan will be the only QB chosen in Round 1.

26. Jacksonville Jaguars (11-5) – Lawrence Jackson, DE, USC

I like Jackson more than the rest of the defensive ends on the board, and think he can really help a Jaguars team that struggles with pressuring opponents. A wild card here could be Jarod Mayo.

27. San Diego Chargers (11-5) – Chilio Rachal, OG, USC

Without the real need to reach for anyone, or take a value pick here, the Chargers could be an ideal trade partner. However, if they do stay here, why not take an offensive lineman with humungous upside. USC’s Chilio Rachal is definitely that.

28. Dallas Cowboys (13-3) – Gosder Cherilus, OT, BC

It would be smart for the Cowboys to pass up the opportunity to draft a receiver, because there are too many question marks there. Another very good offensive lineman, like Gosder would be a great choice and could really help them moving forward. WR in Round 2.

29. San Francisco 49ers (5-11) (via Colts) – Quentin Groves, DE, Auburn

Groves not only fits a need for the pressure hungry 49ers defense, but he is a good value pick with nice upside. He had a down year, sure, but his ability has never been questioned, and he could be a nice piece for a young Niners defense.

30. Green Bay Packers (13-3) – Dustin Keller, TE, Purdue

People talk about Keller like he’s some workout warrior that just jumped on the scene with some nice combine times. Quit it, folks. Keller did work at Purdue, and was definitely their most feared receiving threat. He’ll be another tool for the Packers passing game.

31. New York Giants (10-6) – Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona

From what people have been saying, Cason may slip into the first round. I believe he is a first round talent, and the Giants could always use more help against the pass. Cason played on a bad team, but he’s a very good player that can do it all.

Mock Draft Database

Mock Draft Database

Papa Weimer 2008 NFL Mock Draft – Final

That’s right, I’m not even going to wait until free-agency is over. The biggest additions have been made, and unless Barry Bonds signs to play running back for the Raiders or Roger Clemens misremembers his story and reports to Texans’ camp, team needs will be about the same. I will not lead you to temptation, but deliver you to the best mock draft this side of Bill Parcells’ own draft board. I’m old, I’m on the very of insanity, but my football knowledge is here for you to mock… yeah! Draft… Yeah!

1. Miami Dolphins (1-15)
   Needs: MLB, OT, G, DT, CB, QB, LB
   Chris Long, DE, Virginia

   I think the Dolphins pass on Matt Ryan, because when all is said and done, they will see that he’s not that far ahead of Brohm and Flacco. Chris Long is a sure thing, hard worker, and a perfect fit for a Bill Parcells team.

2. St. Louis Rams (3-13)
   Needs: CB, DE, G, OT, OLB

   Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
   This biggest impact player not named Darren McFadden, Dorsey will finally give the Rams a force up the middle on their defense. Heck, they might even stop the run every once in a while, too.

3. Atlanta Falcons (4-12)
   Needs: QB, OT, DT, RB, S

   Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
   The Falcons signed Michael Turner, so there is no way they go with McFadden here. Matt Ryan is almost assured to get picked #1 or #3, with me having him go 3rd to Atlanta. He’ll be a good start in the right direction for this struggling franchise.

4. Oakland Raiders (4-12)
   Needs: OT, DT, WR, DE, RB

   Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio State
   This is considered early for Gholston, but if he’s not an Al Davis guy, I don’t know who is. His huge strength and speed index should make him speed rushing fixture opposite Derrick Burgess.

5. Kansas City Chiefs (4-12)
   Needs: OT, DE, C, WR, CB
   Jake Long, OT, Michigan

   The Chiefs will take Jake Long, if he’s there. Despite the trixy language by Chiefs brass, they don’t have the medicine balls to take another running back after shelling out all that dough for LJ, last season. McFadden slips yet another spot.

6. New York Jets (4-12)
   Needs: WR, NT, ILB, G, OLB
   Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas

   The winner of the biggest change in team income goes to the Jets. New York will sell infinite McFadden jerseys after the draft, and all the hype after free agency spending and D-Mac’s signing will continue to roll in the publicity in New York.

7. New England Patriots (16-0) via San Francisco
   Needs: LB, CB/S depth,
   Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC

   I would like to see the Patriots select a corner here, but I doubt that they’re willing to pay a guy like Jenkins or McKelvin all that scratch when they just let an All-Pro, proven cornerback go for the same amount of money. Top 10 picks get paid, and they might as well get a stud defensive lineman. That makes Ellis the only pick I see working. A trade down is a huge possibility.

8. Baltimore Ravens (5-11)
   Needs: CB, QB, OLB, DE, OT
   Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy

   The Ravens need help in their secondary whether they want to believe it or not. They give up a ton of long passes, and they’ll need their defense to be better in that aspect if they want to return to their winning ways. I like McKelvin the most, but Talib and Jenkins rate out very close in my books.

9. Cincinnati Bengals (7-9)
   Needs: DT, LB, OT, DE, TE, discipline
   Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina

   I personally don’t know how the Bengals will pass up on Rashard Mendehall or Jonathan Stewart, two guys who run and catch very well… But they will, and when they do, a defensive playmaker is probably the best choice anyway. Balmer’s going to be a stud.

10. New Orleans Saints (7-9)
    Needs: CB, DT, MLB, TE, OLB
    Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas

    The Saints still need help in the secondary. Vilma and Morgan will sure up the linebacker crew if they can get anywhere close to healthy. Gay is a solid corner, but he’s not a shut down guy. If a guy like Ellis is here, sure, they’ll take him, but if not, don’t be surprised if they go for the best corner. Talib’s size and ball skills should get him picked up.

11. Buffalo Bills (7-9)
    Needs: CB, TE, WR, LB, DT
    Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee State

    Now this is a perfect example of a guy that used the combine to vault himself from a late first/early second round pick to possibly the top half of Round 1. That’s good, hard work. Buffalo addressed their defensive line, and now a good cover corner could go a long way in solidifying that defense.

12. Denver Broncos (7-9)
    Needs: OT, DT, S, MLB, G, WR
    Ryan Clady, DE, Boise State

    I really love Clady’s game. The Broncos could use help on the offensive line, and Clady would protect Cutler for years. There are lots of receivers the Broncos could pick-up to take Walker’s spot, and while they aren’t the most predictable group, I think Clady’s elite athleticism and upside make him perfect for Denver.

13. Carolina Panthers (7-9)
    Needs: QB, WR, DE, OLB, OT
    Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson

    I really like Merling, and think he is as talented and complete as any defensive end in the draft. If the Panthers want an eventual replacement for Rucker, or just a guy who could take some pressure off Peppers now, this is the right guy. He does everything well.

14. Chicago Bears (7-9)
    Needs: QB, OT, DT, G, RB
    Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois (Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville)

    Adrian Peterson and Cedric Benson are not the answer at running back in Chicago, and while they definitely need some help at receiver, unless their in love with one, they’ll wait until the second, or trade up into the latter half of the 1st. Mendenhall is a local kid, and he’s as good as any back in this draft. Right away, he gives the Bears a feared rusher. They ought to like that enough to take him here.

15. Detroit Lions (7-9)
    Needs: OT, G, CB, S, DE
    Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon

    The Lions resigned Tatum Bell, but I have to be honest, all that does is add a warm body to an untested group. With Duckett now Seattle’s problem, and Kevin Jones’ fragile frame released, the Lions won’t pass on the opportunity to draft Mendenhall or Stewart, unless they see future star in a guy like Kevin Smith or Matt Forte. All are powerful and fast, and will be good for a system that wants to run the ball more. Stewart and Mendenhall are studs. This would be a great pick, so the Lions probably won’t do it, but I can’t pass it up.

16. Arizona Cardinals (8-8)
    Needs: OLB, CB, TE, RB, DE
    Keith Rivers, LB, USC

    They need a linebacker, (because they lost their youngster, Blackstock, and they just aren’t good at the position). This guy is the best in the draft, what more can I say? Yhatzee!

17. Minnesota Vikings (8-8)
    Needs: DE, S, QB, TE
    Calais Campbell, DE, Miami

    Campbell is a big cat, and he can do everything for the Vikings. He’s good against the run, and while he’s not an elite speed rusher like Gholston, or even as refined as Merling, he is a good end prospect with play now ability. If it’s pass rushing the Vikes want, Derrick Harvey could be their guy.

18. Houston Texans (8-8)
    Needs: CB, G, WR, S, OT
    Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida

    I don’t see the Texans getting their hands on either Medenhall or Stewart as many mock drafts have predicted. Those two runners are too versatile, powerful, and fast to get by a couple teams that are really looking to improve that position and build for the future. Mike Jenkins, possibly the best corner in the bunch, is still on my board, and the Texans could use help at corner, especially as they sit in the Colts division.

19. Philadelphia Eagles (9-7)
    Needs: OT, S, WR, LB, TE
    Malcom Kelly, WR, Oklahoma

    Unable to pry an elite receiver away from the Cardinals, Patriots, or Bengals, the Eagles might just take a chance on Mr. Kelly of Oklahoma. He’s got he size and speed to be a great player, but I’m not so sure they waste a 1st round pick on receiver with all the depth there is. Still, if they like one more than the others, and they get their pick here, they might just splurge and hope for the best.

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7)
    Needs: OT, WR OLB, CB, QB
    DeSean Jackson, WR, California

    What more can I say, except Jackson is definitely this drafts Joey Galloway. While the Bucs know how fragile a smallish speedy receiver can be, they also know how dynamic they can turn out. Galloway is old and still a big homerun threat, looking to the future, maybe Jackson is their man.

21. Washington Redskins (9-7)
    Needs: WR, DE, S, OT, CB
    Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida

    The Redskins need explosive players on defense if they want to take the next step. I know that many believe they’ll go receiver here, but there are so many available that passing on a super-athlete like Derrick Harvey seems ridiculous. The Redskins’ brass seems to finally be figuring it out, so I say they take Harvey.

22. Dallas Cowboys (13-3) (from 10-6 Cleveland)
    Needs: CB, WR, OT, ILB, RB
    Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt

    The Cowboys might want Felix Jones here, but they make the smarter move by taking Chris Williams, a big dominant offensive tackle from Vanderbilt. Williams’ stock is moving up, and they’re lucky to get him this late.

23. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6)
    Needs: OT, C, DE, G, RB, CB
    Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh

    Tackles back to back: Jeff Otah is a big force of freakish nature, as his size and power will certainly help Willie Parker get into the end-zone more than once next season. Otah didn’t test out like a hero at the combine, but teams know what he can do; he’ll be a 1st round pick for sure.

24. Tennessee Titans (10-6)
    Needs: WR, CB, TE, WR, OL
    Limas Sweed, WR, Texas

    It usually doesn’t work like this, but Sweed could be a great fit for the Titans as well as his former college quarterback. Sweed showed enough speed to show pro scouts that he wasn’t Mike Williams incarnate, and he could give Young a comfortable boost out wide.

25. Seattle Seahawks (10-6)
    Needs: OT, DT, RB, TE, G
    Dustin Keller, TE, Purdue

    The Seahawks are currently hoping that Jonathan Stewart’s toe dilemma and surgery cause him to drop to them at 25. I doubt it, but think he’d be a great addition for them. Right now, he’s gone, so the Hawks do what they do best and take a tight end, the speedy and productive Dustin Keller. If they fall in love with a wideout, they may go that direction.

26. Jacksonville Jaguars (11-5)
    Needs: DE, SS, CB
    Jerod Mayo, LB, Tennessee

    Mike Peterson is a solid linebacker, but he’s getting up there in age (31) and his games played record over the last few years isn’t impressive (5 in ‘06; 10 in ‘07). Mayo is a smart player with very good tackling ability and he has the instincts to man the middle for years in Jacksonville.

27. San Diego Chargers (11-5)
    Needs: G, OT, NT, FB, RB
    Chilio Rachal, OG, USC

    The Chargers have done nothing in free agency, aside from resigning Billy Volek. They have lost a lot. Chilio is one of the very best guards in the draft, and he could really help get the Chargers running game going again this year.

28. Dallas Cowboys (13-3)
    Needs: CB, WR, OT, ILB, RB
    Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas

    Some see the Cowboys going for Chris Johnson here, the speedster out of East Carolina, but I don’t buy it. Sure, he’s a very fast and explosive player, but against strong big conference defenses, Felix averaged over 8 yards a carry, and he was a force. He might not time out like Superman, but on the field, his explosiveness is evident. Jones would be a great compliment for Barber.

29. San Francisco 49ers (5-11) (via 13-3 Colts)
    Needs: WR, OT, OLB
    Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College

    With Bryant Johnson signing, and Bruce all ready to go for his former coach, I don’t think the 49ers will use their 1st rounder on yet another receiver. Bryant only has a 1 year deal, and Bruce is old as dirt, but they have more needs to address here. A sleeper pick could be Brian Brohm, but I think they’ll go more useful, and that brings me to Gosder Cherilus. This kid is versitle, and he could fill in and help on the line right away. Lord knows the quarterbacks in Mike Martz’ offense will need it.

30. Green Bay Packers (13-3)
    Needs: OT, S, CB, TE
    Fred Davis, TE, USC
    Davis might not have the highest stock right now, but his body of work is very impressive. He was the leading receiver for the Trojans, from the TE spot, and everyone knows that a big athletic pass catching receiver is a young quarterback’s best friend. Mr. Rogers could use Davis immediately.
31. New York Giants (10-6)
    Needs: OLB, CB, S, OT, DT
    Kenny Phillips, S, Miami
    Can the Giants luck out again? They lost Gibril Wilson, but they signed Sammy Knight. They don’t care, if a stud safety prospect like Phillips slips all the way to them sitting with the last pick of round 1, you can bet your bills that they’ll take him. Phillips can do a lot, and has many upside, very, very many upside.

You think you know better?
Send your emails to papaweimer50@hotmail.com

Mock Draft Database

2008 NFL Mock Draft – Round 1 – UPDATED

Alright, no mocking around! All I have here is what I expect will happen on one of the best weekends in sports. I actually do expect a trade or two that could wow your wits, but since trades into the top 10 rarely happen, and are almost impossible to predict, I just went on ahead with a mock draft that goes as planned, trades be damned. This is my 2nd episode, and I do hope you enjoy. I hate that this draft looks a lot like others, but the first few picks just seem too reasonable right now.

1. Miami Dolphins (1-15)
   Needs: MLB, OT, G, DT, CB, QB, LB
   
2. St. Louis Rams (3-13)
   Needs: CB, DE, G, OT, OLB
   
3. Atlanta Falcons (4-12)
   Needs: QB, OT, DT, RB, S
   
4. Oakland Raiders (4-12)
   Needs: OT, DT, WR, DE, RB
   
5. Kansas City Chiefs (4-12)
   Needs: OT, DE, C, WR, CB
   
6. New York Jets (4-12)
   Needs: WR, NT, ILB, G, OLB
   
7. New England Patriots (16-0) via San Francisco
   Needs: LB, CB/S depth,
   
8. Baltimore Ravens (5-11)
   Needs: CB, QB, OLB, DE, OT
   
9. Cincinnati Bengals (7-9)
   Needs: DT, LB, OT, DE, TE, discipline
   
10. New Orleans Saints (7-9)
    Needs: CB, DT, MLB, TE, OLB
    
11. Buffalo Bills (7-9)
    Needs: CB, TE, WR, LB, DT
    
12. Denver Broncos (7-9)
    Needs: OT, DT, S, MLB, G
    
13. Carolina Panthers (7-9)
    Needs: QB, WR, DE, OLB, OT
    
14. Chicago Bears (7-9)
    Needs: QB, OT, DT, G, RB
    
15. Detroit Lions (7-9)
    Needs: OT, G, CB, S, DE
    
16. Arizona Cardinals (8-8)
    Needs: OLB, CB, TE, RB, DE
    
17. Minnesota Vikings (8-8)
    Needs: DE, WR, S, QB, TE
    
18. Houston Texans (8-8)
    Needs: CB, G, WR, S, OT
    
19. Philadelphia Eagles (9-7)
    Needs: OT, S, WR, LB, TE
    
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7)
    Needs: OT, WR OLB, CB, QB
    
21. Washington Redskins (9-7)
    Needs: WR, DE, S, OT, CB
    
22. Dallas Cowboys (13-3) (from 10-6 Cleveland)
    Needs: CB, WR, OT, ILB, RB
    
23. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6)
    Needs: OT, C, DE, G, RB, CB
    
24. Tennessee Titans (10-6)
    Needs: WR, CB, TE, WR, OL
    
25. Seattle Seahawks (10-6)
    Needs: OT, DT, RB, TE, G
    
26. Jacksonville Jaguars (11-5)
    Needs: WR, DE, SS, CB
    
27. San Diego Chargers (11-5)
    Needs: G, OT, NT, FB, RB
    
28. Dallas Cowboys (13-3)
    Needs: CB, WR, OT, ILB, RB
    
29. San Francisco 49ers (5-11) (via 13-3 Colts)
    Needs: WR, OT, OLB, DE, QB
    
30. Green Bay Packers (13-3)
    Needs: OT, S, CB, TE
    
31. New York Giants (10-6)
    Needs: OLB, CB, S, OT, DT
    

You think you know better?

Send your emails to lester@luckylester.com

Mock Draft Database

Mock Draft Database

Updated 2008 NFL Mock Draft – Round 1 WriteUps

Full Mock Draft review write ups below:

Alright, no mocking around! All I have here is what I expect will happen on one of the best weekends in sports. I actually do expect a trade or two that could wow your wits, but since trades into the top 10 rarely happen, and are almost impossible to predict, I just went on ahead with a mock draft hat goes as planned, trades be damned. This is my 2nd episode, and I do hope you enjoy. I hate that this draft looks a lot like others, but the first few picks just seem too reasonable right now. This is my last Mock p re-free agency.

1. Miami Dolphins (1-15)
   Needs: MLB, OT, G, DT, CB, QB, LB
   Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
   
   I’m sure that the Dolphins wish they could trade out of this pick and get fair compensation in return. From the looks of it, that just doesn’t seem like a possibility. There was a rumor that the Dolphins would be taking picks and players from the Cowboys for the chance for Jerry Jones and his Cowboys to select Darren McFadden, but with the running back’s stock slipping a bit, Dallas would be better off waiting and making that move, if indeed that rumor has any validity. I imagine it doesn’t. Anyhow, the Dolphins were easily the worst team in the league last season, and that leaves them with the number one overall selection that they’ll have to deal with. If I were the Dolphins, I would take Dorsey or one of the unrelated Long linemen. I think taking a quarterback #1 overall can be a tough hole to put your franchise in. With Ryan, I think they are fairly safe, but there is still a chance that he turns out mediocre or even sub-par, like Alex Smith has been. If that is the case, then you have a quarterback dilemma every game, do you start the million-dollar baby, or do you put the best guy behind center? Look at the Niners with Smith and Shaun Hill. See the Cardinals with Leinart and Kurt Warner. I have to think the smartest move here is to take a disruptive line force that is all but guaranteed to do good things at this level. QBs are iffy, but guys like Dorsey, and the Longs are as sure as sure gets. Anyway, I think the Dolphins will feel a little pressure to pick Ryan as he is the best quarterback prospect and they are a team with nobody at that key position. The urge to get their franchise guy will be too much to pass up, and they’ll take Ryan.
2. St. Louis Rams (3-13)
   Needs: CB, DE, G, OT, OLB
   Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
   
   The Rams will luck out and get their pick between 3 top-rated guys that can make a huge difference in their team’s makeup. I think they’ll go for Dorsey because he is a beast on the defensive line with a superb on-the-field motor, and an athleticism you rarely see from a big man in the middle. Dorsey will instantly take some pressure off the Rams mediocre secondary while demanding a double team and alleviating pressure off the linebackers as well. Chris Long seems like a great defensive end prospect, and Jake Long could definitely find room on the Rams mediocre offensive line, but Dorsey is the guy that I like the most, and I expect him to go here.
3. Atlanta Falcons (4-12)
   Needs: QB, OT, DT, RB, S
   Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
   
   With Matt Ryan off the board, the Falcons luck out and realize that they don’t really have a choice but to choose the draft’s most dynamic player. I know they think they need a quarterback, and that could force them into either making a bad draft pick trade to pick up Brian Brohm later in the 1st round, or even more pathetically, taking the Louisville product here, but over the next couple months they’ll have to realize that passing up on a team cash cow like Darren McFadden, an elite prospect at a position of need that is well-known by anyone who knows football, is even more absurd than giving an absent minded 50% passing quarterback that owns a dog-fighting ring, a 100 million dollar contract. Yes, Atlanta has become known for their mistakes, if it was their Vick troubles or their Patrino hiring – the team is struggling. McFadden won’t line up under center like he did in college, but he will do big things for the team and the city, and he’ll probably have a better career passing percentage than Mike. This pick is a no-brainer in my opinion, even though I think Rashard Mendenhall is, at the very least, just as good of a running back as McFadden – the money making facet of the game has to put the Razorback in Atlanta.
4. Oakland Raiders (4-12)
   Needs: OT, DT, WR, DE, RB
   Chris Long, DE, Virginia
   
   With Darren McFadden out of the Raiders’ dreams (Al Davis sheds a tear down his leathery and disturbingly wrinkled cheeks) they’ll have to resort to making a good team decision. Yikes. Chris Long is going to be a good professional that will make his entire team better and he’s the son of former Raider, Howie Long. He’s got the name, the bloodlines, and the style of play that is almost too perfect to be a Raider. However, he’s the best guy left on the board for Oakland, because I don’t see any way that they’ll take a hot prospect offensive tackle from the Big 10. Al maybe senile, but he remembers the last time he did that, I can guarantee you. He has to pay that guy to play mediocre at guard every single week. If Darren is here, he’s a Raider, if he’s not, it’s the best defensive player. Al wants Lane Kiffen gone, so it will be interesting to see how the coaching dilemma works out, but if McFadden is off the board he’ll help Ryan’s defense with this pick.
5. Kansas City Chiefs (4-12)
   Needs: OT, DE, C, WR, CB
   Jake Long, OT, Michigan
   
   And Larry Johnson is heard rejoicing at the local Karaoke bar in downtown Kansas City. After LJ’s entire offensive line retired, the destroying runner from Penn State found open lanes tough to come by before he ended his season short with a foot injury. If all works out like he plans, he’ll get himself a Pro-Bowl left tackle out of the Draft in April. Jake Long not only is a perfect prospect in a position of need, but he’s a good character, and a guy that would instantly help a running game that needs to excel for the Chiefs to succeed, and help protect a quarterback that is hardly the beacon of calmness in the pocket. Jake is the perfect fit for Kansas City, which makes me wonder if he really has a chance of dropping to them, can they be this lucky?
6. New York Jets (4-12)
   Needs: WR, NT, ILB, G, OLB
   Vernon Gholston, DE, OSU
   
   Luckily for the Jets, they have a chance to take a guy in Vernon Gholston who will help their pass rush immensely and improve the team’s attempt to become a solid 3-4 unit. What makes this pick even better? It takes the only player left on the board that makes sense for the Patriots to select this high in the draft. Yes, the team that instigated this entire spy-gate media-circus is picking ahead of the team they tattled on. Not only that, but the Jets head coach, Eric Mangini, has only Bill Belichick to thank for his current position in New York. These are the Days of Our Lives. It’s crazy how it works out, but the guy who is seemingly perfect for the Jets at 6 is the only guy that makes really good sense for the Patriots at 7. Tough break, Pats. The question is, what will they do now?
7. New England Patriots (16-0) via San Francisco
   Needs: LB, CB/S depth,
   Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
   
   There’s no question that the Patriots will need a cornerback with Asante Samuel moving to GREENER pastures, but I don’t see them taking one here. Why? Well, they don’t want to pay Asante, a pro-bowl corner that was a lock down guy during their amazing run, a ton of money, so why would they want to pay some young kid rookie a ton of money to gradually grow into the spot? I admit, I thought they would go corner here, but after thinking about it, it just doesn’t make sense. They need a corner, yeah, but they have never liked to pay big bucks for their secondary, what makes everyone think they’ll start in this draft? The only guy I can see the Pats taking here is defensive line force, Sedrick Ellis. Why? Because the Patriots pay big bucks for guys like Ellis, and even though he’s probably not the perfect fit, he’s a good enough athlete to mold, and he’s dominant enough to play right away. Ideally, the Patriots will trade down and turn two later picks into Super Bowl cogs that will propel them to the next level. Ideals don’t work too well here, as they are in a mock situation and forced to make a pick. Ellis is the guy if they can’t find a trade. What they should try to do is trade up and get Jake Long – after their offensive line was used in the Super Bowl, they might have to upgrade.
8. Baltimore Ravens (5-11)
   Needs: CB, QB, OLB, DE, OT
   Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy
   
   The Ravens vaunted defense gave up the deep ball more than any team in the NFL last season. Considering both of their top corners are growing long in the tooth, I’m guessing they take a chance on Leodis becoming everything Leodis, himself, thinks he can be. With an attitude that matches his game-breaking ability, I just don’t see him lasting much longer than the first 10 picks. I know the Ravens don’t have an immediate need at corner, but the numbers speak for themselves, and McKelvin will, at the very least, help get more coverage players on the field so they don’t give up that long ball as much. The Ravens could go with Brian Brohm if they want to reach a bit, and if their new staff believes he could be the guy. They could also go with Phillip Merling or Derek Harvey, a solid end or a pass rushing super freak of an athlete. There are lots of directions for the Ravens to turn, but upgrading a secondary that got picked a part too often in 2007 seems like the right answer.
9. Cincinnati Bengals (7-9)
   Needs: DT, LB, OT, DE, TE, discipline
   Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina
   
   The Bengals biggest asset is their quarterback, Carson Palmer. Last season, the poor kid got thrown around a little more than usual, so why not go out and get one of the best offensive tackle prospects in the draft? They should probably take Clady here, because the pick has good value. However, they certainly need defensive help more, and a guy like Sedrick Ellis would make their defense a lot more ferocious. However, he’s not available, so that leaves them possibly reaching for North Carolina’s very good defensive tackle, Kentwan Balmer. I say reaching because I know Balmer isn’t rated this high, but he certainly is good enough to go here. On a defense that wasn’t stacked with playmakers, Balmer still put in work and caused problems for offenses in the ACC. If the Bengals don’t see resigning Justin Smith as an option, picking up a player like Phillip Merling here could be the better decision. Merling is jumping up draft boards, and was all around solid against the run and pass at Clemson. Lord knows, this team needs a parole officer as much as anything else, but defense should be the direction Cinci goes on draft day. If they skip the idea of picking defense, I think Rashard Mendenhall needs to be selected here – him or Jonathan Stewart. Both backs would instantly become every down studs in the Bengals’ offense. Both can run fast and carry some weight while also owning great hands. But please, Cincinnati, go defense.
10. New Orleans Saints (7-9)
    Needs: CB, DT, MLB, TE, OLB (Defense)
    Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida
    
    It is that obvious? If the Saints pick an offensive player with this pick, I’m going to mock their silly asses for the rest of eternity. Maybe they should reach for Manningham (this year’s Robert Meachem) and see how that works out. There are two corners left with a strong first round grade, and I think the Saints will pick their favorite and rely on him to upgrade one of the worst pass defenses in the entire league. The Saints are brutal on defense, and could probably go a lot of different ways here. If Balmer is still available, he’d be a nice selection for a team that has no real attitude in the middle of their defensive line. They could also reach for the best outside linebacker in the draft, Keith Rivers, but I definitely think this is too high for the USC product to go, and they could get a similar prospect in the 2nd round. New Orleans was a disappointment last season, and while their offense was a little more turnover happy, their pathetic defense was the reason for their demise. Expect most of the Saints’ picks to be defensive in nature. I like Jenkins and think he will be a fine NFL corner.
11. Buffalo Bills (7-9)
    Needs: CB, TE, WR, LB, DT
    Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas
    
    Will the Bills make it 3 cornerbacks in the last 4 picks? I’m guessing that it won’t happen like this, but hey, that’s the way it looks in this mock draft. I don’t think much room separates Jenkins, Talib, and McKelvin, and all look like first round locks heading into the combine. Talib is one of my favorites. He’s a big corner with the smarts to sit tight in zone coverages, the speed to play man to man against fast receivers, and the size to muscle up and hold his own against bigger receivers in the league. That’s important for the Bills. They lost their star cornerback last year when Nate Clements hit the free-agent market. The result; a poor pass defense and a couple losses that were a direct result of their inability to close out series on passing downs. Talib is an elite prospect and he would immediately help a Bills team looking for secondary starters.
12. Denver Broncos (7-9)
    Needs: OT, DT, S, MLB, G
    Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State
    
    Big, super-athletic tackle with the ability to block at the second level and use his football smarts to get his man – sounds like a perfect guy for Shanny to mold into a franchise offensive tackle to me. The Broncos would like to get an elite player at the tackle position to protect their franchise quarterback, Jay Cutler. Clady is that guy. Not only is he an athletic freak of nature, a giant of a man with the agility to fit right in to the Broncos blocking scheme, but Clady is just a damn good football player. I originally had him slipping, but I expect him to get picked right around here.
13. Carolina Panthers (7-9)
    Needs: QB, WR, DE, OLB, OT
    Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson
    
    Merling doesn’t come out with as much hype as his former teammate, Gaines Adams, but he might very well be a better all around defensive end. With the ability to hold up against the run and put plenty of pressure on the passer, Merling might be just the guy Carolina needs to light a fire under Peppers’ toosh and get this defense back on solid ground. The Panthers could snag Brian Brohm with this pick, but Jake Delhomme is expected back, and they’ll get better value later in the draft at that spot. Maybe Flacco or Henne. Right now, they need help on defense, because if they can’t put pressure on the quarterback and hold their own against the run, they’re not going to beat anyone next season, not even in a weak NFC South.
14. Chicago Bears (7-9)
    Needs: QB, OT, DT, G, RB
    Brian Brohm, QB, Lousiville
    
    I have to think that the Bears will reach for Brohm with this pick. I think Brohm is just a hair behind Matt Ryan, and actually, I imagine the Louisville product will be better at managing the game right off the bat, and his accuracy will be a huge plus in the NFL and especially on a team like Chicago that really only needs their quarterback to hit the open guy and take very few chances. Brohm will have to work on that, as he was the king of taking chances in college, but his arm is strong enough, he’s a good leader, he’s a fighter, and he’s perfect for the Bears at this spot. Chicago could use a lot of things, one of the top rated runners left on the board, a stud offensive lineman, or help at the tackle position, but they’ll be lucky to see Brohm at 14, and they’ll roll the dice. They may have resigned Grossman, and Orton’s still in the mix, but the Bears have to have realized by now that there’s not an answer at quarterback currently on their roster. Get your answers right now.
15. Detroit Lions (7-9)
    Needs: OT, G, CB, S, DE
    Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
    
    There are higher rated defensive ends still on the board, but I think Campbell does all the little things that Rod Marineli needs from his ends. Campbell is an all around stud at D-end, and while he’s not a sexy pass rushing type (Harvey for example) he will put his solid technique and strength up against the run, and create pressure against the pass. The Lions need a lot here, and could definitely opt to go in any direction on Draft Day. I like Campbell as a player, and think he’s also a very good fit for the defensively confused Lions. With Shaun Rogers all but gone, this team will need even more help along the defensive line.
16. Arizona Cardinals (8-8)
    Needs: OLB, CB, TE, RB, DE
    Keith Rivers, LB, USC
    
    The Cardinals are struggling with Larry Fitzgerald as the young star wants to get paid even more money than the Cardinals are offering, and they’re offering to make him the highest paid receiver in football. Sounds like a case of the stupids if you ask me. Larry wants all the money in the world, and what he doesn’t realize is that he’ll continue to be part of the “Real Cardinals” if he doesn’t be reasonable and accept the best receiver salary in football. The Cardinals are dumb for doing a deal that could pay a receiver 15-17 million a year in the first place, but who can blame them, they’re the Cardinals. That brings us to the draft where the Cardinals might feel like they have to take the best linebacker on the board. They’re losing at least one pass rushing, solid linebacker in Daryl Blackstock because the Cards can’t re-sign him because of Larry’s salary cap complications. Keith Rivers is the best backer on the board, and that makes this a great pick in my opinion.
17. Minnesota Vikings (8-8)
    Needs: DE, WR, S, QB, TE
    Kenny Phillips, S, Miami
    
    I think Kenny Phillips is a great safety prospect that is also an asset in pass coverage. He may have had some ups and downs this season, but his ability shouldn’t be questioned. Phillips was the best player on the Hurricane’s defense, and is a guarantee for the first round. He’s the best safety on the board by a long-shot, and it always seems like Minnesota is trying to get better there. The Vikings definitely need help on defense, and I can almost guarantee they’ll go that direction with their 1st round pick. The only way they go another direction is if they’re sold on some receiver as being the next Randy Moss without the public mooning or in game frustrations. I don’t think there’s that kind of receiver in this class, so the best safety and a great all around help in the secondary seems like a great choice to me.
18. Houston Texans (8-8)
    Needs: CB, G, WR, S, OT
    Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon
    
    This kid is a beast of a running back. Think Ron Dayne but with the ability to hit the hole, run fast, and catch the ball like a receiver. So, basically, think Ron Dayne, but completely different and way more effective. Think Dayne’s size with a touch of Brian Westbrook. Think, hell, I don’t know who to compare him to, but let me tell you this; Stewart is a freak of nature. He’s a huge back with better hands than most receivers. He’s unbelievably patient, which should make him a perfect fit for the Houston Texans zone blocking scheme. Stewart might not be the super-dynamic runner that McFadden is, because he never looks like he’s exploding through the hole – but that doesn’t mean he can’t be just as, or more productive than the Arkansas back. He’s got a rare combination of size, speed, and hands that make him usable on every down. The Texans could finally get a running back to take pressure off their quarterback, something they’ve rarely had since their inception into the league.
19. Philadelphia Eagles (9-7)
    Needs: OT, S, WR, LB, TE
    Malcom Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
    
    6′4″, great deep speed, great hands. Hmm… Sounds like an option for a pass-happy Eagles team that didn’t have guys getting open last year. I’m not saying that Kelly is Randy Moss or, in the Eagles recent memory – TO, but I am saying that he’s a damn good prospect for a team looking to improve at the wide receiver position. Kelly didn’t kill it at the combine, but he is still killing it on draft boards everywhere. This kid has the ability to go up and get the ball, run past you, and even puts his body on the line in traffic. He needs to add some bulk, but right off the bat, he’d give the Eagles something they don’t have a fast, gamebreaker at receiver. I know Philly’s not in to spending high picks on anything but defensive and offensive linemen, and maybe Free-Agency will lock them up a solid receiver, but all I can think about is how good this team looked with talented receivers, and how mediocre they looked last season with the guys they had catching passes.
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7)
    Needs: OT, WR, OLB, CB, QB
    DeSean Jackson, WR, California
    
    The Bucs will take Joey Galloway #2 and hope for the best. Tampa Bay was brought to tears when Michael Clayton decided to morph into a bust after producing like a perennial All-Pro his rookie season. Now, the Bucs are subject to using Joey Galloway more than his little body can handle, and that can only last so much longer because Joey is racking up the years at a Brett Favre pace. Tampa needs help on the offensive line, as usual, but with so many top prospects at OT, they can easily wait until round 2 and still walk away with a possible starter in 2008. I’m not sold on Jackson’s polish, but I am a buyer of his speed and game-changing illusiveness. I’ve seen him disappear in the college game, but I’ve also seen him confuse many a tackler with his speed and the angles that must be taken. The Bucs, as much as any team, know what that kind of speed can do as a receiver, even if Joey is approaching 40.
21. Washington Redskins (9-7)
    Needs: WR, DE, S, OT, CB
    Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida
    
    The Redskins could use an elite pass-rushing prospect, and even though they seem to be gung-ho on adding a nice sized receiver (Limas Sweed, James Hardy are both options here) I think their need for a pass rush is even more important. This team is pretty good right now, but they do need help on the defensive line. I’m not sure that Harvey is ready to be an every down player, but he is physical freak of nature and I expect he’ll be a pass-rushing presence from Day 1. Washington has the ability to just wait and take the best defensive player with this pick, and if they don’t really love any of the guys left at 21, it’s not too early to take a chance on a top receiver. Of course, this is Washington, they could very possibly give up this pick for some over-priced veteran.
22. Dallas Cowboys (13-3) (from 10-6 Cleveland)
    Needs: CB, WR, OT, ILB, RB
    Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
    
    Jones didn’t impress all that much at the combine. The back known for his yards per carry and crazy speed, ran in the mid 4.4s and was one-upped by more than a handful of backs – don’t get me wrong, he’s still fast as hell. He’s also a little bit small, which will have more than a few teams questioning if he could ever be an every-down back, something you usually want from a 1st round pick. Fortunately for the Cowboys, Felix is the perfect player for the Cowboys to pick, and if he’s still there, I just don’t see how they could pass Felix Jones up. Jerry Jones is a huge Arkansas homer, and Jones is expected to go right near the end of the 1st round. He’d give Dallas a perfect back to team with Marion Barber as an absolutely destructive thunder and lightning duo in the Big D. Despite Jones not topping the running back charts in his 40 time, it’s hard to ignore his production. He’s improved his yards per carry every single year of his career, ballooning up to 8.7 yards per tote in his Junior tilt. That’s nuts. He hasn’t proven to be a great receiver, which could knock his value down a bit, but I just see too good a fit in Dallas for them to pass up on him with one of their two first round picks.
23. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6)
    Needs: OT, C, DE, G, RB, CB
    Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh
    
    I don’t know if you watched any Steelers’ games late in the year, but Big Ben was skipping around like a scared chipmunk trying to escape oncoming rushers. Otah is a monster of a man that has the upside of a lockdown tackle if he can get his feet quickness up. Right off the bat he’d improve a rushing game that struggled more and more as the season went on. I’m not sure, but I’m guessing that the Steelers’ coaching staff has realized that they aren’t at their best when Ben has to throw the ball most of the time. In fact, he’s at his best when the defense is focusing on a tough rushing attack. Otah’s stock didn’t pick up any speed when he lost to my grandpa in a foot race at the combine, but many people need to remember that offensive linemen probably don’t run the 40 too often, and probably don’t produce very good times in the 40 when they’re not 100% healed from a high ankle sprain. In fact, in my book, the big kid moved up his stock because he came out and competed despite not being 100% – that’s a great asset to possess as an NFL lineman. None of those guys are 100% after Week 1.
24. Tennessee Titans (10-6)
    Needs: WR, CB, TE, OL
    Fred Davis, TE, USC
    
    I think Davis is a solid pass catching tight end out of the back field, and definitely gives the Titans more of a threat than the two-man combination of Bo Scathe and Ben Troupe did last year. A pass catching TE that could stretch the field and open up lanes for the Titans pass catchers could be a great thing for Vince Young’s growth as a TE. Heimerdinger has always utilized his tight-ends, and seeing as though he really doesn’t have any, I wouldn’t be all that surprised to see the Titans reach a little and grab the draft’s best prospect with the 24th pick. The Titans could go with one of the drafts’ top receivers, as both Limas Sweed and James Hardy did well at the combine, proving they weren’t going to have a problem with speed (both ran in the 4.5 range). Vince Young could surely use a big tall game breaker on the edge, but with the depth and uncertainty of the receivers in this class, I almost think they’d be better off waiting until Round 2. I know Davis won’t be available by then. I’m not 100% sold on Davis, but everyone else seems to be. That’s why I think he goes here.
25. Seattle Seahawks (10-6)
    Needs: OT, DT, RB, TE, G
    Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois
    
    As far as I’m concerned, the Seahawks will be lucky, lucky, lucky to have Mendenhall fall to them with the 25th pick. However, knowing the Hawks, they’ll probably draft some undersized corner or trade out of this spot. Criminal. To pass on a guy like Mendenhall when you’ve forced your fans to watch a guy like Shaunna Alexander over the past 2 years is just criminal behavior. Honestly, I don’t know how Rashard slips this far – but as a guy who is forced to watch more than his fair share of Hawks games, I hope he does. I don’t see how a passing team without an elite rusher passes Mendenhall by. He has great hands, great size, and a major-league burst that is very impressive to witness. Cinci, Chicago, Carolina – they could all use this guy, and he’d immediately be their number one. Now, they might have bigger needs, and that’s the only reason I can foresee Rashard dropping this far. We’ll see what happens, the Hawks could go for the Draft’s best guard, knowing they need a great one to make Shaunna successful, but I think they’d be better off cutting ties with the former MVP and just rolling with the bulky speedster out of Illinois.
26. Jacksonville Jaguars (11-5)
    Needs: WR, DE, SS, CB
    Lawrence Jackson, DE, USC
    
    If Jackson is still on the board this late, the Jaguars will have to take the versatile USC end. He’s everything this team needs from the defensive end spot. He does things right. He makes plays with his feet, and he has the ability to hold up at the line of scrimmage against the run. I’ve watched him do it over and over again. Jackson had a great final season, and the promise and improvement he showed should get him into the first round. Another option here would be Quentin Groves, a super talented prospect that struggled during his final season because of injuries. I was close to taking Groves with my pick here, but Jackson seems to be the safer option of the two. Groves has more upside, more speed, and that freak of nature athleticism, but Jackson can do it all, and sometimes safe is the way to go. For the Jags, a team that could win it all as soon as next season, I think safe is the best kind of answer.
27. San Diego Chargers (11-5)
    Needs: G, OT, NT, FB, RB
    Chilio Rachal, OG, USC
    
    There’s a few people that think guards are one of the most important positions in a rushing attack’s success. There are some people that think Chilio Rachal is the best guard in the draft. I just happen to be both of those people put into one. Now, Chilio hasn’t gone in any 1st rounds of mock drafts that I’ve seen, but I have a feeling he’ll do okay and up his stock moving forward, plus I just think the kid is legit. The Chargers need help on the line, for the sake of LT in all his glory, this needs to be a team that can impose itself on opposing defensive lines and that wasn’t always the case last year. In fact, it was rarely the case.
28. Dallas Cowboys (13-3)
    Needs: CB, WR, OT, ILB, RB
    Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt
    
    After using their first pick on locking away their lightening to Marion Barber’s thunder, this pick will go to helping both of the young backs run in wide open spaces. Williams isn’t the prototypical destroying force of a muscle bound monster at offensive tackle, but his feet are perfect, and he knows how to get the job done by using leverage, quickness, and want-to. I’ll take that in a lineman any day of the week. The Cowboys might go after a receiver here, but it looks very likely that they’ll go after one in free agency or via a trade. Offensive line is the smart and safe pick, especially with a guy like Williams on the board, and even more importantly when you’re losing long time linemen that have set the stage for your running game forever.
29. San Francisco 49ers (5-11) (via 13-3 Colts)
    Needs: WR, OT, OLB, DE, QB
    Mario Manningham, WR, Michigan
    
    I’m not a huge fan of Mario, I think he’s overrated, and Luigi is the best of the block crushing, mushroom eating, fire throwing Italian plumbers. As far as Mr. Manningham is concerned, I’m not a huge fan of his either. He sure did finish the season with a flurry, though, and his ability to slice past defenders has him trying to locate a team in the 1st round to take a chance one him. It wouldn’t surprise me if Mike Martz looks at some film and ends up telling his bosses that Manningham would be the #1 from the get go, because the guys they have either don’t catch the ball when it gets to them (D-Jack), or can’t get open downfield at all (Battle). Now, Mario’s stock slipped a lot during the combine, as he just barely ran past Otah in the 40. However, Martz has done well with guys like Furrey, and could get the most out of the Michigan product. I didn’t like him prior to the combine, and I don’t like him all that much after either, but he’s still up there on important peoples lists, and since this draft isn’t all about who I think is great (I’d easily pick 5 WRs over this guy, Hardy, Sweed, Dexter Jackson, Devin Thomas, Caldwell) I have Manningham getting plucked off the board right here. I still think the Niners would be better off building their sub-par defense, but that doesn’t seem likely at this point.
30. Green Bay Packers (13-3)
    Needs: OT, S, CB, TE
    Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College
    
    The Packers are very good drafters, and thus will probably surprise “draft experts” with the second to last pick in the draft. Gosder is a monster of a tackle, measuring over 6′6″. He’s athletic and though not extremely heavy, still provides the “man strength” needed to be a great player at this level. Cherilus was relied upon to protect Matt Ryan all season long, and he did a hell of a job. I know I’m not as good at evaluating talent as Ted Thompson is, but I see big things in Cherilus’s future, and maybe, just maybe, the Packers brass agrees with me. Another option might be the young TE from Purdue, he killed the combine with his top-speed, however, I don’t see Thompson grabbing a workout warrior just for the sake of a 40 and some lifts – but Keller might be better than many originally thought.
31. New York Giants (10-6)
    Needs: OLB, CB, S, OT, DT
    Dan Conner, LB, Penn State
    
    Best defensive player available, and despite the Giants’ success in stopping the run and winning games with defense late in the year, a young linebacker that wins plays with his mind as well as his body will be a blessing in disguise for the team picking last in the 1st round. Conner has plenty of skills to excel at this level, but does he have the playmaking ability that teams want at this spot? I’m not sure, but I know he’ll make very few mistakes. That’s something that teams covet, especially good teams that need reliable play from their rookies. I like Highsmith a lot, he’s a great playmaker, but his speed (or lack there of) hurt his draft stock too much. They say that the combine can only move you a little either way, but that’s not the case in this extreme situation. Highsmith, a legit playmaker on one of the best defenses in the nation, ran just under a 5 second 40 yard dash. I was 285 in high school, and I ran a 5.0 dash. As you can imagine, that slow time hurts Ali. I still think he’ll get drafted and become a good player, but he has a lot of work to do on draft day. Conner seems like the best fit here, but being Super Bowl Champs allows you to go in a lot of different directions – New York could do anything with this pick. One thing I’m pretty certain about, I don’t expect them to go with any offensive skill position here. In fact, I’d be willing to bet that they don’t even consider the offensive side of the ball unless they think there’s an offensive tackle out there that is ready to be a cornerstone from the get-go.

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Mock Draft Database

2008 NFL Mock Draft – Round 1

My mock draft is going to be a little different than most, but believe me, that’s a good thing. What I’m going to do is let everyone know whom I would take in the first round if I were making millions deciding which way my NFL franchise should invest.

I will also predict whom each NFL team will take on draft day. Players will officially go off my board when the “they will pick” section is completed. For example, if I would pick McFadden, and they pick Glenn Dorsey, Glenn Dorsey is the guy off the board, and I can still choose McFadden later. I’m not taking into account what “other” mock drafts are predicting, and I’m definitely not listening to my uncle – this is what I think after watching games of every single player in my first round. Enjoy the ride – this is the best part of the year. The poor become rich in just a blink.

1. Miami Dolphins (1-15)
   Needs: MLB, OT, G, DT, CB, QB, LB
   
   They will pick: Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
2. St. Louis Rams (3-13)
   Needs: CB, DE, G, OT, OLB
   
   They will pick: Jake Long, OT, Michigan
3. Oakland Raiders (4-12)
   Needs: OT, DT, WR, DE, RB
   
   They will pick: Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
4. Kansas City Chiefs (4-12)
   Needs: OT, DE, C, WR, CB
   
   They will pick: Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville
5. Atlanta Falcons (4-12)
   Needs: QB, OT, DT, RB, S
   
   They will pick: Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
6. New York Jets (4-12)
   Needs: WR, NT, ILB, G, OLB
   
   They will pick: Chris Long, DE, Virginia
7. New England Patriots (16-0) via San Francisco
   Needs: LB, CB/S depth,
   
   They will pick: Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas
8. Baltimore Ravens (5-11)
   Needs: CB, QB, OLB, DE, OT
   
   They will pick: Vernon Gholston, DE, OSU
9. Cincinnati Bengals (7-9)
   Needs: DT, LB, OT, DE, TE, discipline
   
   They will pick: Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
10. New Orleans Saints (7-9)
    Needs: CB, DT, MLB, TE, OLB
    
    They will pick: Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida
11. Buffalo Bills (7-9)
    Needs: CB, TE, WR, LB, DT
    
    They will pick: DeSean Jackson, WR, California
12. Denver Broncos (7-9)
    Needs: OT, DT, S, MLB, G
    
    They will pick: Kenny Phillips, S, Miami
13. Carolina Panthers (7-9)
    Needs: QB, WR, DE, OLB, OT
    
    They will pick: Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
14. Chicago Bears (7-9)
    Needs: QB, OT, DT, G, RB
    
    They will pick: Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina
15. Detroit Lions (7-9)
    Needs: OT, G, CB, S, DE
    
    They will pick: Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida
16. Arizona Cardinals (8-8)
    Needs: OLB, CB, TE, RB, DE
    
    They will pick: Keith Rivers, LB, USC
17. Minnesota Vikings (8-8)
    Needs: DE, WR, S, QB, TE
    
    They will pick: Malcom Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
18. Houston Texans (8-8)
    Needs: CB, G, WR, S, OT
    
    They will pick: Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State
19. Philadelphia Eagles (9-7)
    Needs: OT, S, WR, LB, TE
    
    They will pick: Sam Baker, OT, USC
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7)
    Needs: OT, WR OLB, CB, QB
    
    They will pick: Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh
21. Washington Redskins (9-7)
    Needs: WR, DE, S, OT, CB
    
    They will pick: Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
22. Dallas Cowboys (13-3) (from 10-6 Cleveland)
    Needs: CB, WR, OT, ILB, RB
    
    They will pick: Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
23. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6)
    Needs: OT, C, DE, G, RB, CB
    
    They will pick: Reggie Smith, CB, Oklahoma
24. Tennessee Titans (10-6)
    Needs: WR, CB, TE, WR, OL
    
    They will pick: Early Doucet, WR, LSU
25. Seattle Seahawks (10-6)
    Needs: OT, DT, RB, TE, G
    
    They will pick: Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon
26. Jacksonville Jaguars (11-5)
    Needs: WR, DE, SS, CB
    
    They will pick: Lawrence Jackson, DE, USC
27. San Diego Chargers (11-5)
    Needs: G, OT, NT, FB, RB
    
    They will pick: Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt
28. Dallas Cowboys (13-3)
    Needs: CB, WR, OT, ILB, RB
    
    They will pick: Mario Manningham, WR, Michigan
29. San Francisco 49ers (5-11) (via 13-3 Colts)
    Needs: WR, OT, OLB, DE, QB
    
    They will pick: Pat Sims, DT, Auburn
30. Green Bay Packers (13-3)
    Needs: OT, S, CB, TE, P
    
    They will pick: Fred Davis, TE, USC
31. New York Giants (10-6)
    Needs: OLB, CB, S, OT, DT
    
    They will pick: Dan Conner, LB, Penn State

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Send your emails to lester@luckylester.com

Mock Draft Database

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