Another 2006 mock to chew on. Since Young declared (1 Viewer)

[Marc Levin]

:backpedal:

Whatever - you can get all jacked up over a player's spot in the draft in January. I'll reserve my final opinions until I have more information on how he performs for scouts. No comment on how good an NFL player he'll be - simply that his SPOT IN THE DRAFT is clearly WAY up in the air right now. And he could fall into the second as easily as he could be selected in the top-20.

 

[Iron_Far]

LenDale White will be the slowest Round 1 RB clocked at the combines. However, I don't think the hype will wear off fast enough for him to slip to the second round though.

 

[Marc Levin]

Why do folks think Lendale will declare?  Is there something I missed about his intention to forego his senir year?

He is likely a first round/top-15 selection if he returnms for his senior year and he is a likely late 2nd round selection if he comes out now.

The smartest thing that kid can do is graduate from college.

There's no WAY he lasts until the late second round. There's no way he lasts until the second round, period.

I am not sure what Levin is smoking, but he clearly does not know what he is talking about here.

Bets?Once the teams that need RBs address those needs with real first round talent, Lendale White lasts until the very very late first at best.

I see Pitt thinking of taking him near the end of the first, and then noone else thnking of taking him until the second.

I'd think about agreeing with you before the Rose Bowl, but now the only way he makes it to the second round is if he runs a 6.0 40 or if the popo finds the dead hookers in his trunk.

That's the prob- the rose bowl hype is in full gear, and that will wear off LONG before the measurables come out.Once he starts running against the other RBs at the combines in April, he will fall like a rock.

at thinking White is slow.Stop now while you aren't too far behind.

????Where did I say he was "slow" - or make ANY comment on his speed. Maybe YOU should stop placing assumptions on what I say?

I will say that he wil clock in slower than OTHER first round RBs.

saying that he will clock in slower than other first round RBs is commenting on his speed.

This was my first comment on his speed, buddy.

 

[Texasmouth]

I wonder how the RB in this draft will fare with all the free agent RB out there? This is the last year that first round picks will cash in and maybe if a team can get by for a year with another guy.......just a thought.

 

[bagger.]

the quoted post:

Once he starts running against the other RBs at the combines in April, he will fall like a rock.

was your first comment on speed "buddy".that is what i responded to.

 

[Marc Levin]

the quoted post:

Once he starts running against the other RBs at the combines in April, he will fall like a rock.

was your first comment on speed "buddy".that is what i responded to.

gotcha "buddy" - This was not a comment on "speed" as there are a lot of things RBs do while "running" against each other at combines besides speed.

But, whatever - your opinion on him is set, mine is not. I still believe once he is compared to the other potential 1st round RBs, he will be falling into the second - you are still enamored with him. That's fine for you.

 

[nightshift]

I don't see Maroney to Pittsburgh at all. I think if White were available, which now seems like a pip-dream, they'd take him, otherwise they address more pressing needs at DE or WR. OL and LB depth are also a possibility. Wouldn't be shocked to see Michael Bush got to Pittsburgh in round 2, if he was still available, which is possible with all the RB talent in this draft.

Despite that, nice job, Andy.... good read.

Gotta agree with you on Maroney. A lot will depend on the combines, but I think Steelers will look for a defensive back in round 1.Round 2? Don't be surprised if Pittsburgh becomes Mr. Robinson's neighborhood (We are Penn State!). This kid has Cowher written all over him.

 

[bagger.]

:backpedal:

Whatever - you can get all jacked up over a player's spot in the draft in January. I'll reserve my final opinions until I have more information on how he performs for scouts. No comment on how good an NFL player he'll be - simply that his SPOT IN THE DRAFT is clearly WAY up in the air right now. And he could fall into the second as easily as he could be selected in the top-20.

First, you weren't reserving your final opinion. You made the statement that you did not think White would even go pro. That was the first clue that you were not tuned into the situation. Then you stated that he would be a likely late 2nd round selection if he came out this year, another statement that was way off.That's OK, nobody knows every situation of every player. I know I don't.

 

[Helm]

Wish there was a team with Marcus Vick, Lendale White, T.O. all on one team.Sorry for the hijack, just thought it'd be funny.

 

[Marc Levin]

:backpedal:

Whatever - you can get all jacked up over a player's spot in the draft in January. I'll reserve my final opinions until I have more information on how he performs for scouts. No comment on how good an NFL player he'll be - simply that his SPOT IN THE DRAFT is clearly WAY up in the air right now. And he could fall into the second as easily as he could be selected in the top-20.

First, you weren't reserving your final opinion. You made the statement that you did not think White would even go pro. That was the first clue that you were not tuned into the situation. Then you stated that he would be a likely late 2nd round selection if he came out this year, another statement that was way off.That's OK, nobody knows every situation of every player. I know I don't.

That's right I don;t have knowledge of every college player - that is Cecil's job. I never gave a "final opinion" on him by stating his best move was to stay in college. He'd be, IMO, a top-15 selection next year, and will end up dropping to a second round grade this year when he is compared to the other top RBs that will be coming out. Where I believe he ends up being selected does not reflect what type of NFL career I believe he will have - I think he will outperform backs who are drafted ahead of him, but that there are so many talented backs coming out (or expected to come out) that he will drop to a 2nd round grade come April.

Not sure how you get a "final" opinion from my first post - in its entirety:

Why do folks think Lendale will declare? Is there something I missed about his intention to forego his senir year?

He is likely a first round/top-15 selection if he returnms for his senior year and he is a likely late 2nd round selection if he comes out now.

The smartest thing that kid can do is graduate from college.

Obviously, there is something I missed about his intention regarding his senior season season. And I said his SMARTEST move was to stay in school - not that he WOULD stay in school.Again, it would be helpful if you refrained from making assumptions about what I am saying in this thread and simply take my statements at face value without making such assumptions.

 

[Marc Levin]

Then you stated that he would be a likely late 2nd round selection if he came out this year, another statement that was way off.

P.S. - the truth of this statement has VERY far to go before the accuracy is properly judged.As of two weeks before the draft, Alex Smith and Aaron Rogers were supposed to go 1-2.

 

[da5exx]

*30 Denver - Tamba Hali

The D-Line proved itself to be what it was - Cleveland rejects.

You have obviously not watched a single Denver game. All of the Pats fans posts I've read so far this week are not even close to making a statement as asinine as this one. You applying for Michael Irvin or Sean Salisbury's job?

 

[Marc Levin]

*30 Denver - Tamba Hali

The D-Line proved itself to be what it was - Cleveland rejects.

You have obviously not watched a single Denver game. All of the Pats fans posts I've read so far this week are not even close to making a statement as asinine as this one. You applying for Michael Irvin or Sean Salisbury's job?

Absolutely UNNECESSARY to make a personal attack on an overall very well though out list.He may have made a mistake here, but that is not worth this kind of comment.

 

[Helm]

*30 Denver - Tamba Hali

The D-Line proved itself to be what it was - Cleveland rejects.

You have obviously not watched a single Denver game. All of the Pats fans posts I've read so far this week are not even close to making a statement as asinine as this one. You applying for Michael Irvin or Sean Salisbury's job?

I'd still take Tamba... even if the statement as to why they take him is incorrect.

 

[Chaos Commish]

Round 2? Don't be surprised if Pittsburgh becomes Mr. Robinson's neighborhood (We are Penn State!). This kid has Cowher written all over him.

I'm not a Steeler or PSU fan, but I am a huge fan of MRob. Unfortunately for him, he may be a great all around football player, but may not be good enough at any one position. According to most "experts" I'm reading he doesn't rank high enough at QB or WR to be drafted on the first day, and there is a very good chance he goes undrafted. My opinion is in the link.

 

[Marc Levin]

16. Miami - Jonathan Scott I just can't see them spending a first rounder on Jay Cutler when a shoe in LT like Scott is left on the board.

I got sidetracked by the Lendale White talk, but from your lip to the draft gods' ears.If they can't package Ricky with their #1 to get up to a spot where they have a shot at a top-10 talent, I really hope they take advantage of this unusual draft, which has a bunch of top LT talents, and then a HUGE drop.BTW, wouldn't Omar Jacobs go somewhere above where the phins draft? If not, I could easily see them going with Jacobs over LT here (over my objections) or go for LB - they need impact LBs in a super bad way.

 

[nightshift]

Round 2? Don't be surprised if Pittsburgh becomes Mr. Robinson's neighborhood (We are Penn State!). This kid has Cowher written all over him.

I'm not a Steeler or PSU fan, but I am a huge fan of MRob. Unfortunately for him, he may be a great all around football player, but may not be good enough at any one position. According to most "experts" I'm reading he doesn't rank high enough at QB or WR to be drafted on the first day, and there is a very good chance he goes undrafted. My opinion is in the link.

Again, it depends on the combine numbers. Robinson played a great senior season, talented, hard worker, great heart to boot. I would not be surprised to see him go 1st day. Look at Matt Jones last year.

 

[Chaos Commish]

16. Miami - Jonathan Scott

I just can't see them spending a first rounder on Jay Cutler when a shoe in LT like Scott is left on the board.

I got sidetracked by the Lendale White talk, but from your lip to the draft gods' ears.If they can't package Ricky with their #1 to get up to a spot where they have a shot at a top-10 talent, I really hope they take advantage of this unusual draft, which has a bunch of top LT talents, and then a HUGE drop.

BTW, wouldn't Omar Jacobs go somewhere above where the phins draft? If not, I could easily see them going with Jacobs over LT here (over my objections) or go for LB - they need impact LBs in a super bad way.

Jacobs received a 4th round grade from the NFL Draft Advisory Board according to NFL.com. His challenge right now is impressing enough to get back into the first round, but it doesn't look likely. Funny how things change in a year. In a way it doesn't make sense and makes staying in school a much bigger risk than just going pro whenever you sniff round 1. When he declared I announced him as a first rounder despite this information, but I've since learned the board rarely makes this big of a mistake, especially with a QB. One old retired scout recently explained the committee gets an ap from an underclassmen and requests confidential opinions from all 32 franchises, who reply in a standard format which allows the board to get a close approximation of what the player can expect. Sometimes they give a round with certainty, sometimes it will be as general as "day 1", sometimes it will list two rounds 3-4. When they give a round with certainty it means they have a very good estimation based on no big outliers among the various franchises. Jacobs received a single round evaluation-- round 4.

 

[Ridgelake]

Andy, a fun read and a good job on the mock.Some thoughts about Dallas.Everyone knows about their OLine problems. The lack of young WRs. These are clearly areas of need for the team. Particularly OLine. What everyone may not be as familiar with is Parcells' comments on first rounders at these positions.Late in the season during a press conference, Parcells specificly talked about drafting O-linemen and WRs in the first round. Both positions, he said, were very high risk with high failure rates. For every Larry Fitzgerald, there is a Reggie Williams or Charles Rogers. For every Orlando Pace, there is a Tony Mandarich. Now for Pace, he did say that it was pretty clear that he was going to be very very good. Same with Jonathan Ogden and Walter Jones.But he went on to say that he has not drafted an Olineman in the first round. Jumbo Elliot was an early second rounder. He's drafted two Olinemen in the second round since being in Dallas. But thats as close as he's gotten according to him.As for WRs, he drafted Terry Glenn @ #6 in New England. But from what I have read, he was very much against that pick. (He inherited Keyshawn with the Jets.)Where Parcells has spent a lot of first round picks is on defense. And I would not be surprised to see another there this year. I could easily see Dallas going for a bookend OLB to complement Ware. Another edge rusher who can apply pressure. Or perhaps a nosetackle if they trade Glover or an ILB. With the 18th pick, there likely will be some good values at these positions that drop there.I'd actually rate the chance of an OLB going in the first to Dallas as the most probable position for them. Its an easier position to evaluate. The risk is lower. I'd rate Oline as the second most probable. There is clearly a huge need and this is supposed to be a deep class. Are these factors enough to override Parcells' aversion to drafting that position this high? I'd rate WR as a very low probability for Dallas at #18. Its not a deep draft class and Parcells doesnt like to do it.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

*30 Denver - Tamba Hali

The D-Line proved itself to be what it was - Cleveland rejects.

You have obviously not watched a single Denver game. All of the Pats fans posts I've read so far this week are not even close to making a statement as asinine as this one. You applying for Michael Irvin or Sean Salisbury's job?

I'd still take Tamba... even if the statement as to why they take him is incorrect.

Yeah. That statement was over the top. I wrote it on my way out the door this afternoon (I'd been working on a production support issue here at work since 3:00 AM).Still. It's an area that could use an upgrade.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

BTW, wouldn't Omar Jacobs go somewhere above where the phins draft? If not, I could easily see them going with Jacobs over LT here (over my objections) or go for LB - they need impact LBs in a super bad way.

Jacobs is kind of a wild card. A lot depends on his combine performance. He could go higher or fall big time. I dunno.All I did for this was read the projections from a few different sites, combined it with what I observed (which admittedly wasn't much) and came up with what seemed like the best fit in each case.

After all is said and done, I'm sure it will end up quite different than this.

What's remarkable, however, is how deep this draft is at several positions. That and how bad some teams are - as in drafting a punter may actually help (yeah, I'm talking to you 49ers.)

 

[meabeln]

*30 Denver - Tamba Hali

The D-Line proved itself to be what it was - Cleveland rejects.

Umm.... Denvers D Line has vastly improved since last year. They are not all all stars, but the way the played this year the ex-cleveland Dline man are good enough to be starting in the NFL. With that said I agree Den still needs to draft some Dline help, but you have to give credit to the exbrowns for doing pretty well and helping denver to 13-3.

 

[Sinrman]

Wishful thinking, but I wish Detroit would trade up to nab Young... I think he'd fit very nicely in that offense.

 

[facook]

Give me AJ Hawk to replace Julian Peterson, and I'm a pretty happy Niners fan. Keep up the good work, Andy.

 

[Marc Levin]

16. Miami - Jonathan Scott

I just can't see them spending a first rounder on Jay Cutler when a shoe in LT like Scott is left on the board.

I got sidetracked by the Lendale White talk, but from your lip to the draft gods' ears.If they can't package Ricky with their #1 to get up to a spot where they have a shot at a top-10 talent, I really hope they take advantage of this unusual draft, which has a bunch of top LT talents, and then a HUGE drop.

BTW, wouldn't Omar Jacobs go somewhere above where the phins draft? If not, I could easily see them going with Jacobs over LT here (over my objections) or go for LB - they need impact LBs in a super bad way.

Jacobs received a 4th round grade from the NFL Draft Advisory Board according to NFL.com.

Wow - i had no idea he plumetted that far.

 

[TME]

Andy, a fun read and a good job on the mock.

Some thoughts about Dallas.

Everyone knows about their OLine problems. The lack of young WRs. These are clearly areas of need for the team. Particularly OLine.

What everyone may not be as familiar with is Parcells' comments on first rounders at these positions.

Late in the season during a press conference, Parcells specificly talked about drafting O-linemen and WRs in the first round. Both positions, he said, were very high risk with high failure rates. For every Larry Fitzgerald, there is a Reggie Williams or Charles Rogers. For every Orlando Pace, there is a Tony Mandarich. Now for Pace, he did say that it was pretty clear that he was going to be very very good. Same with Jonathan Ogden and Walter Jones.

But he went on to say that he has not drafted an Olineman in the first round. Jumbo Elliot was an early second rounder. He's drafted two Olinemen in the second round since being in Dallas. But thats as close as he's gotten according to him.

As for WRs, he drafted Terry Glenn @ #6 in New England. But from what I have read, he was very much against that pick. (He inherited Keyshawn with the Jets.)

Where Parcells has spent a lot of first round picks is on defense. And I would not be surprised to see another there this year. I could easily see Dallas going for a bookend OLB to complement Ware. Another edge rusher who can apply pressure. Or perhaps a nosetackle if they trade Glover or an ILB. With the 18th pick, there likely will be some good values at these positions that drop there.

I'd actually rate the chance of an OLB going in the first to Dallas as the most probable position for them. Its an easier position to evaluate. The risk is lower.

I'd rate Oline as the second most probable. There is clearly a huge need and this is supposed to be a deep class. Are these factors enough to override Parcells' aversion to drafting that position this high?

I'd rate WR as a very low probability for Dallas at #18. Its not a deep draft class and Parcells doesnt like to do it.

Interesting commentary. But, there's always exception to the rule. In 2004 Parcells wanted Shawn Andrews before Philly leap frogged them and took him off the board. He even let that fact slip in post draft interviews. Dallas then proceeded to trade down and out of the first round where they picked up JJ and Jacob Rogers as a consolation prize.Personally, I agree, and I do not think Parcell's is a fan of picking really high (say top 10) ever unless he really likes the guy. When they drafted Newman, word was Parcells wanted to trade down for more picks, but old Jimmy is a fan of taking a difference maker when you can get one. So, they stayed put and took Newman.

Just some balancing commentary to your interesting read.

 

[FreeBaGeL]

Well I'll say this, with White (GB), Deangelo (Car), and Maroney (Pit) all ending up in good fantasy situations based on your mock that sure would create a lot of havoc at the top of dynasty rookie drafts.

 

[Pat Patriot]

If Lendale White is a product of the Rose Bowl hype and is expected to plummet after the measurables come in (per Marc Levin), what about Vince Young? How much of all of these draft projections at #3 or higher are products of the Rose Bowl hype? Dont you think when the Pro Scouts start looking at tape that they are going to tear apart his throwing motion? Young will not work out at the combine so everything will come down to his Pro Day. 30 for 40 is still 30 for 40 but I did not see any NFL caliber throws in that Rose Bowl. No deep outs, no deep ins. Where were the post patterns and flag patterns?Jeff Fisher is still well respected as a coach but he hasnt won for awhile. Will he use a top 3 pick on a QB?

 

[Spike]

Andy, a fun read and a good job on the mock.

Some thoughts about Dallas.

Everyone knows about their OLine problems. The lack of young WRs. These are clearly areas of need for the team. Particularly OLine.

What everyone may not be as familiar with is Parcells' comments on first rounders at these positions.

Late in the season during a press conference, Parcells specificly talked about drafting O-linemen and WRs in the first round. Both positions, he said, were very high risk with high failure rates. For every Larry Fitzgerald, there is a Reggie Williams or Charles Rogers. For every Orlando Pace, there is a Tony Mandarich. Now for Pace, he did say that it was pretty clear that he was going to be very very good. Same with Jonathan Ogden and Walter Jones.

But he went on to say that he has not drafted an Olineman in the first round. Jumbo Elliot was an early second rounder. He's drafted two Olinemen in the second round since being in Dallas. But thats as close as he's gotten according to him.

As for WRs, he drafted Terry Glenn @ #6 in New England. But from what I have read, he was very much against that pick. (He inherited Keyshawn with the Jets.)

Where Parcells has spent a lot of first round picks is on defense. And I would not be surprised to see another there this year. I could easily see Dallas going for a bookend OLB to complement Ware. Another edge rusher who can apply pressure. Or perhaps a nosetackle if they trade Glover or an ILB. With the 18th pick, there likely will be some good values at these positions that drop there.

I'd actually rate the chance of an OLB going in the first to Dallas as the most probable position for them. Its an easier position to evaluate. The risk is lower.

I'd rate Oline as the second most probable. There is clearly a huge need and this is supposed to be a deep class. Are these factors enough to override Parcells' aversion to drafting that position this high?

I'd rate WR as a very low probability for Dallas at #18. Its not a deep draft class and Parcells doesnt like to do it.

Excellent, well-reasoned post!

 

[Marc Levin]

If Lendale White is a product of the Rose Bowl hype and is expected to plummet after the measurables come in (per Marc Levin), what about Vince Young? How much of all of these draft projections at #3 or higher are products of the Rose Bowl hype? Dont you think when the Pro Scouts start looking at tape that they are going to tear apart his throwing motion? Young will not work out at the combine so everything will come down to his Pro Day. 30 for 40 is still 30 for 40 but I did not see any NFL caliber throws in that Rose Bowl. No deep outs, no deep ins. Where were the post patterns and flag patterns?

Jeff Fisher is still well respected as a coach but he hasnt won for awhile. Will he use a top 3 pick on a QB?

I don't disagree - I think Young needs to develop in two very important areas - delivery and standing in the pocket. Due to the system he was in at Texas, arm mechanics and hanging in the pocket were NOT taught.That said, it is likely a team would draft a QB with Young's raw talent and teach him those skills for a year or two behind one of the most experienced mobile QBs in the league (McNair).

Same with Houston, incidentally - they could draft Young and allow him some time to develop behind Carr (if Carr remains with the team next year).

 

[MrPack]

Are we really buying into the White @ #5 rumored crap?

Not really, but if he doesn't go there, he goes in the 20's and then you have people saying "no way he lasts that long."It's not that farfetched though.

Yea I really think it is. I cannot see the Packers going RB in the 1st unless Bush drops to them. He won't, and they won't.I don't see them passing up Hawk at #5. If they TRULY want White, they can trade down and grab him around #15- $20. If they don't trade down and take him at #5, well that just shows you TT doesn't know what he's doing.

I still don't see them going RB in the 1st.

 

[Marc Levin]

Are we really buying into the White @ #5 rumored crap?

Not really, but if he doesn't go there, he goes in the 20's and then you have people saying "no way he lasts that long."It's not that farfetched though.

Yea I really think it is. I cannot see the Packers going RB in the 1st unless Bush drops to them. He won't, and they won't.I don't see them passing up Hawk at #5. If they TRULY want White, they can trade down and grab him around #15- $20. If they don't trade down and take him at #5, well that just shows you TT doesn't know what he's doing.

I still don't see them going RB in the 1st.

What if Ferguson drops to #5 - they REALLY need OL help more than ANYthing else on that team.

 

[MrPack]

Are we really buying into the White @ #5 rumored crap?

Not really, but if he doesn't go there, he goes in the 20's and then you have people saying "no way he lasts that long."It's not that farfetched though.

Yea I really think it is. I cannot see the Packers going RB in the 1st unless Bush drops to them. He won't, and they won't.I don't see them passing up Hawk at #5. If they TRULY want White, they can trade down and grab him around #15- $20. If they don't trade down and take him at #5, well that just shows you TT doesn't know what he's doing.

I still don't see them going RB in the 1st.

What if Ferguson drops to #5 - they REALLY need OL help more than ANYthing else on that team.

I'd grab Freguson in a heartbeat.

 

[Jason Wood]

I may have the order at the bottom a bit off since I haven't seen an update from the last weekend.

Enjoy:

1. Houston - Reggie Bush

Cooler heads prevail and take Bush at #1. I doubt they keep this pick, though.

2. New Orleans - Matt Leinart

I just think he fits better here than Young.

3. Tennessee - Vince Young

Perfect place for young to land.

4 New York Jets - D'Brickashaw Ferguson

So many needs. But fill the LT spot for the next 10 years and stop worrying about it.

5. Green Bay - Lendale White

Defense is a big concern for the Pack, but that side of the ball is deep and they should be able to snag a starter in the second round. Their running back corps is in dire need of a stud (please don't talk to me about Gado). Drafting White is a major coup.

6. Oakland - Mario Williams

Pair him with Burggess and that's one of the top DE tandems in the league. To win the AFC West, more defense is needed.

7. San Francisco - A.J. Hawk

SF was one of, if not THE worst defenses in the league this year. Hawk fixes that a bit.

8. Buffalo - Haloti Ngata

Every other mock has this. Why not me? Letting Pat Williams go was a baaaaad decision.

9. Detroit - Winston Justice

Justice played the RT position at USC. He'll fit naturally on that side of the line for the Lions as Jeff Backus has started 80 straight at LT and has not been bad. Naturally, the two could easily switch sides as well. The Lions were 7th worst in rushing and 9th worst in sacks allowed. Not going O-Line would be criminal.

10. Arizona - Vernon Davis

Gives them an excellent chance to win. Tackle is also a possibility, but Davis' talent is too tough to pass up.

11. St. Louis - Mathias Kiwanuka

He should go higher, way higher, but the top of this draft is hard to crack.

12. Cleveland - Marcus McNeill

It's too bad injuries have this team snakebit. What a lineup the offense would be with the addition of a stud LT to Winslow and Edwards.

13. Baltimore - Michael Huff

Paired with Ed Reed, yikes! Dale Carter and Deion Sanders are both expected to retire. A starting 4 defensive backfield of Reed/Huff/Rolle/McAlister would be most impressive.

14. Philadelphia - Chad Greenway

Seems like a no brainer.

15. Atlanta - Jimmy Williams

The freefall ends here. He has the talent to be top 10, but his 'tweener' status hurts. Will help a team that has zero currently at the Safety spot.

16. Miami - Jonathan Scott

I just can't see them spending a first rounder on Jay Cutler when a shoe in LT like Scott is left on the board.

17. Minnesota - DeMeco Ryans

Or D'Qwell Jackson or Abdul Hodge. I like Ryans the best. Their LB corps is bad/old and any of these guys would really help.

18 Dallas - Eric Winston

Need a LT in the worst way and Winston is the best left on the board. QB would also make sense. I'd say Omar Jacobs ahead of Jay Cutler.

19 San Diego - Antonio Cromartie

Jammer is not a corner, but would make a good safety. This pick alllows them to move Jammer to safety.

20 Kansas City - Abdul Hodge

They still need D, and paired with Johnson makes lethal pair.

*21 Tampa Bay - Omar Jacobs

They miss out on the OL run, which is what they needed most. I don't think Gruden believes Simms is the answer. Jacobs gives him the athlete like he had in Gannon in Oakland. Yes, this is over Cutler.

*22 Cincinnati - Rodrique Wright

Their run defense has been a problem for a while now. Not the best problem to have in the AFC north.

*23 New York Giants - Broderick Bunkley

The interior of the line needs shoring up in order to make the ends even more effective. Which is a scary thought.

*24 Jacksonville - Tye Hill

Total need pick here and they're lucky to get someone who fits the bill so well.

*25 New England - D'Qwell Jackson

ILB is where the defense needs the most help. That he's here this late is fitting, since the Pats always seem to strike gold late.

*26 Denver (f/WAS) - Santonio Holmes

Rod Smith is almost done, and Lelie is not emerging. D-Line also makes sense from a need standpoint, but the talent isn't there to warrant it at this pick.

*27 Carolina - DeAngelo Williams

Davis is done and Foster let go, even with his impressive playoff performance as I believe he'll ask for too much money. Williams should go higher than this, but where?

*28 Chicago - Leonard Pope

A great fit as it's a top need for the Bears offense.

*29 Pittsburgh - Lawrence Maroney

He's gotta go somewhere. Is Parker really the answer? Bettis and Staley definitely aren't, at least for the long term. I don't think Parker is either.

*30 Denver - Tamba Hali

The D-Line proved itself to be what it was - Cleveland rejects.

*31 Seattle - Max Jean-Gilles

And the running game just keeps getting better and better.

*32 Indianapolis - Derek Hagan

I doubt they re-sign Wayne. Hagan is a nice replacement.

Nice job Andy, it's never easy to do a mock this early and obviously your views and our own will change considerably between now and April.A few thoughts...

1) LenDale White isn't going to be a top 5 pick IMHO...he simply isn't going to carry that kind of grade and this would be a big-time reach in my estimation.

2) Eagles won't take Greenway in my estimation. Jim Johnson has long derided the need to overpay for linebackers. Plus, if Demeco Ryans is still on the board, I don't see Greenway going ahead of him.

3) Cromartie needs to prove he's a) healthy and b) still has great speed. I would be very surprised if he ends up a top-20 pick

4) Omar Jacobs will have to do A LOT to convince scouts he's worth that high a pick. It only takes one team to buy the hype [after Jason Campbell went in the 1st round last year, all bets are off], but his delivery is unorthodox and the NFL Advisory committee allegedly gave Jacobs a 4th round grade.

5) Santonio Holmes and DeAngelo Williams will go higher then you're projecting. No way the first WR comes off the board that late.

 

[Capella]

No way are the Bucs going QB in round 1. Nice mock though.

 

[Chaos Commish]

2) Eagles won't take Greenway in my estimation. Jim Johnson has long derided the need to overpay for linebackers. Plus, if Demeco Ryans is still on the board, I don't see Greenway going ahead of him.

Hmmm, I disagree with this. Greenway is such an incredible athlete, speed, size, strength, hands and feet too. Ryans does not have good size, he does not have good speed, he is not a great natural athlete. He may end up being a very productive college player who is in a little over his head at the next level. I agree he plays very smart with great instincts and will probably be fine in the NFL, but I think the measureables make him a candidate to slip down the board... considerably, btw. I'm thinking round two is very possible, and a few other "OLBs", actually college DEs, will be taken before him after all the probing and testing is done. Another we'll see I guess.

 

[Jason Wood]

Also, I've seen no one mention Jon Orr yet, and he has a very real shot at being the first WR drafted.

 

[Chaos Commish]

Also, I've seen no one mention Jon Orr yet, and he has a very real shot at being the first WR drafted.

The "experts" are just all over the place with this class of wrs. It makes me laugh, because they should just admit they have no idea at this point and need to wait for the Senior Bowl and opinions from real experts. I like Orr a lot and said as much in another thread. I like Baskett more though.

 

[sts911911]

Are we really buying into the White @ #5 rumored crap?

Not really, but if he doesn't go there, he goes in the 20's and then you have people saying "no way he lasts that long."It's not that farfetched though.

Yea I really think it is. I cannot see the Packers going RB in the 1st unless Bush drops to them. He won't, and they won't.I don't see them passing up Hawk at #5. If they TRULY want White, they can trade down and grab him around #15- $20. If they don't trade down and take him at #5, well that just shows you TT doesn't know what he's doing.

I still don't see them going RB in the 1st.

What if Ferguson drops to #5 - they REALLY need OL help more than ANYthing else on that team.

I'd grab Freguson in a heartbeat.

And move Tauscher to gaurd? Why force him to make the transaction when we already know he's money at tackle. I'd rather have the packers take Mario at 5 and take the top rated gaurd in round 2.

 

[Jason Wood]

Also, I've seen no one mention Jon Orr yet, and he has a very real shot at being the first WR drafted.

The "experts" are just all over the place with this class of wrs. It makes me laugh, because they should just admit they have no idea at this point and need to wait for the Senior Bowl and opinions from real experts. I like Orr a lot and said as much in another thread. I like Baskett more though.

The key to Orr = his 40 time. If he's as fast as he's supposed to be, he'll absolutely be a 1st rounder; but beyond that

 

[sts911911]

Also, I've seen no one mention Jon Orr yet, and he has a very real shot at being the first WR drafted.

Why is Orr considered such a good prospect at WR? Brandon Williams was the badgers best WR.

 

[Chaos Commish]

Also, I've seen no one mention Jon Orr yet, and he has a very real shot at being the first WR drafted.

Why is Orr considered such a good prospect at WR? Brandon Williams was the badgers best WR.

A better combination of size and speed, but you could be right, and you made my point.

 

[Finatic]

If the Colts get Derek Hagan he immediately becomes the #1 WR picked in most rookie drafts next Spring.This guy doesn't get much hype,but every time I watched him the past two years he was awesome

 

[CletiusMaximus]

I recall reading something about Lendale White's knee being an issue. Does he have a health concern?

 

[Cheesedawg]

I agree with the writer's projected draft position of LenDale White. With his size, speed, and short-yardage nose he may well be the best pro skill-position player available in this draft. No chance of making the second round.

 

[msommer]

If Lendale White is a product of the Rose Bowl hype and is expected to plummet after the measurables come in (per Marc Levin), what about Vince Young?  How much of all of these draft projections at #3 or higher are products of the Rose Bowl hype?  Dont you think when the Pro Scouts start looking at tape that they are going to tear apart his throwing motion?  Young will not work out at the combine so everything will come down to his Pro Day.  30 for 40 is still 30 for 40 but I did not see any NFL caliber throws in that Rose Bowl.  No deep outs, no deep ins.  Where were the post patterns and flag patterns?

Jeff Fisher is still well respected as a coach but he hasnt won for awhile.  Will he use a top 3 pick on a QB?

I don't disagree - I think Young needs to develop in two very important areas - delivery and standing in the pocket. Due to the system he was in at Texas, arm mechanics and hanging in the pocket were NOT taught.That said, it is likely a team would draft a QB with Young's raw talent and teach him those skills for a year or two behind one of the most experienced mobile QBs in the league (McNair).

Same with Houston, incidentally - they could draft Young and allow him some time to develop behind Carr (if Carr remains with the team next year).

VY might be the next best thing since sliced bread but taking a qb at #3 to make him develop for a few years when 60% of the starters on the O-Line is about to leave is not a wise decision. Reese and Fisher knows that the game is won on the line. The last few years the D-Line has received a lot of attention, it is time fo rthe O-Line. Personally I'd expect the Titans to trade down - once the dust clears and the two first picks are off the board there should be plenty of suitors to the last of the big three this year.

 

[Cookiemonster]

I agree with the writer's projected draft position of LenDale White. With his size, speed, and short-yardage nose he may well be the best pro skill-position player available in this draft. No chance of making the second round.

As a Steelers fan, I'll say they seem to draft more on film than combine #s. So what if White runs a 4.52 (if he's even that slow). Emmit Smith only ran a 4.5 right? Besides, they have a 4.3 guy starting now. Maroney is a no for Pitt. If White is off the board, they go O or D line (solid LB draft leaves that as a possibility too). Lack of depth on both sides, and an aging Kimo is not going to last much longer. Rooney and Cowher understand that good teams start up front. Otherwise, you have the Raiders. All skill and no wins.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

I think backs in this year's draft are going to find out what the free agents of last year did - there's not many openings for their talents. If White isn't picked by the Packers, the only other teams that could conceivably be interested before you get to MN at 17 is Arizona and Baltimore. I highly doubt he'd go there.Here's why I put Lendale White where I did.1) In the NFC North, you must run the football to win. It's a football axiom, but moreso in the north.2) Whether Favre stays or goes is moot - the Pack needs to run a more ball control offense. Samkon Gado is not that type of back. Nor is the oft injured Najeh.3) I assumed Ahman Green will be gone with the injury concerns, fumblitis, and the impending free agency.So, he either goes to the Packers, or he tumbles all the way to the next most likely team - Jacksonville. And that's only because RB will be a need position for them. I'm not sure he fits there though.Other than that, the only other teams that make sense are New England and Pittsburgh. He actually may be a good fit either of those places.Speaking of Pittsburgh, I agree that Maroney was the wrong spot for him. I think he's a first rounder, but couldn't figure out where to put him. That was added in a rush.FWIW - I was talking with a buddy last night about what he's hearing about the Vikings. He said he's heard in a couple places to not be surprised (and I've said this before) if the Vikings make a hard push to acquire Shaun Alexander as the marquee free agent signing this year. The other option would be Edgerrin James. The new owner is NOT messing around.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Here's a quick list of some "on second thoughts" that could also be likely picks, from what I can tell:1. Houston - Reggie BushOn second thought: D'Brickashaw Ferguson. 2. New Orleans - Matt LeinartOn second thought: Vince Young. 3. Tennessee - Vince YoungOn second thought: D'Brickashaw Ferguson 4 New York Jets - D'Brickashaw FergusonOn second thought: Mario Williams5. Green Bay - Lendale WhiteOn second thought: A. J. Hawk6. Oakland - Mario Williams On second thought: A. J. Hawk7. San Francisco - A.J. Hawk On second thought: Haloti Ngata8. Buffalo - Haloti Ngata On second thought: Winston Justice/Marcus McNeill9. Detroit - Winston JusticeOn second thought: Marcus McNeill10. Arizona - Vernon DavisOn second thought: DeAngelo Williams11. St. Louis - Mathias Kiwanuka On second thought: Michael Huff12. Cleveland - Marcus McNeill On second thought: Eric Winston13. Baltimore - Michael Huff On second thought: DeMeco Ryans/Abdul Hodge/D'Qwell Jackson14. Philadelphia - Chad GreenwayOn second thought: Santonio Holmes/Chad Jackson15. Atlanta - Jimmy Williams On second thought: Tye Hill16. Miami - Jonathan Scott On second thought: Jay Cutler17. Minnesota - DeMeco RyansOn second thought: Lawrence Maroney18 Dallas - Eric WinstonOn second thought: Omar Jacobs19 San Diego - Antonio Cromartie On second thought: Laron Landry20 Kansas City - Abdul Hodge On second thought: Santonio Holmes/Chad Jackson*21 Tampa Bay - Omar JacobsOn second thought: Any of the top LTs that may remain.*22 Cincinnati - Rodrique WrightOn second thought: Marcedes Lewis*23 New York Giants - Broderick BunkleyOn second thought: Tye Hill*24 Jacksonville - Tye HillOn second thought: Tamba Hali/Lawrence Maroney*25 New England - D'Qwell JacksonOn second thought: Lendale White*26 Denver (f/WAS) - Santonio HolmesOn second thought: Broderick Bunkley*27 Carolina - DeAngelo Williams On second thought: Hank Baskett, Martin Nance*28 Chicago - Leonard PopeOn second thought: Marcedes Lewis*29 Pittsburgh - Lawrence MaroneyOn second thought: Lendale White*30 Denver - Tamba HaliOn second thought: Jackson/Hagan/Baskett/Nance*31 Seattle - Max Jean-Gilles On second thought: Elvis Dumerville*32 Indianapolis - Derek HaganOn second thought: Thomas Howard

 

[sho nuff]

If Lendale White is a product of the Rose Bowl hype and is expected to plummet after the measurables come in (per Marc Levin), what about Vince Young? How much of all of these draft projections at #3 or higher are products of the Rose Bowl hype? Dont you think when the Pro Scouts start looking at tape that they are going to tear apart his throwing motion? Young will not work out at the combine so everything will come down to his Pro Day. 30 for 40 is still 30 for 40 but I did not see any NFL caliber throws in that Rose Bowl. No deep outs, no deep ins. Where were the post patterns and flag patterns?

Jeff Fisher is still well respected as a coach but he hasnt won for awhile. Will he use a top 3 pick on a QB?

Fisher does not make the picks...the GM Floyd Reese does.Fisher last season wanted a WR (Williams) and Reese wanted a CB...Pacman was drafted.