Bloom's Mock Draft 1.0 (Three Rounds) (1 Viewer)

[evilempire]

That said ...I have a real problem with Wells going at 28. I covered him on a weekly basis, and he is easily the best back in this draft.

This I agree with...Wells is a top flight back. If he slides to 28 that means a lot of teams missed the boat on him.

Boy you're really trying to clean up your anti big 10 image. IMO, Wells is a late round first rounder IMO, he's injury prone, and doesnt use his size as well as he could. If Mendenhall slipped into the late half of the first he certainly will. He's been a big fish in a small pound and that will come back to bite him in the nfl.

Wells is quite a bit better than Mendenhall -- he finished fourth in OSU history in rushing despite not starting until his sophomore year. He put up good numbers against good competition ... 106 against Texas this year in the bowl game, 146 last year against LSU, consecutive 200 yard games against Michigan (not a great D I know, but a rivalry game).The health issue is a big one, and teams are right to be concerned about it. But there's also little question that Wells is the best back in this draft, and has the biggest upside. There are teams near the top and in the middle that need runners, so I would be surprised if he lasts into the 20s. Stranger things have happened, but if Wells stays healthy he's going to be an NFL force.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

That said ...I have a real problem with Wells going at 28. I covered him on a weekly basis, and he is easily the best back in this draft.

This I agree with...Wells is a top flight back. If he slides to 28 that means a lot of teams missed the boat on him.

Boy you're really trying to clean up your anti big 10 image. IMO, Wells is a late round first rounder IMO, he's injury prone, and doesnt use his size as well as he could. If Mendenhall slipped into the late half of the first he certainly will. He's been a big fish in a small pound and that will come back to bite him in the nfl.

Wells is quite a bit better than Mendenhall -- he finished fourth in OSU history in rushing despite not starting until his sophomore year. He put up good numbers against good competition ... 106 against Texas this year in the bowl game, 146 last year against LSU, consecutive 200 yard games against Michigan (not a great D I know, but a rivalry game).The health issue is a big one, and teams are right to be concerned about it. But there's also little question that Wells is the best back in this draft, and has the biggest upside. There are teams near the top and in the middle that need runners, so I would be surprised if he lasts into the 20s. Stranger things have happened, but if Wells stays healthy he's going to be an NFL force.

Ive also heard murmurs that he's not a "love to play football" guy, and one person reported to me (unconfirmed) that he refused to practice at times this year. I agree that his physical talent is more of a top 15 back, but with RBs available for cheap via trade/FA, I'm not sure what the incentive is to take a bust risk with a premium pick (not that teams don't overlook bust risk because of exceptional tools with regularity). I would imagine that Larry Johnson could be had for a 3rd (or less). Derrick Ward for a modest contract. Guys like Edge and Fred Taylor as a one year rental for almost nothing. I just think RB is the position where teams have the least reason to take on risk for potential production, because of the glut of viable options.Wells, Vontae Davis, and Michael Johnson are definitely going to be among the most fun prospects to debate this Spring.

 

[evilempire]

That said ...I have a real problem with Wells going at 28. I covered him on a weekly basis, and he is easily the best back in this draft.

This I agree with...Wells is a top flight back. If he slides to 28 that means a lot of teams missed the boat on him.

Boy you're really trying to clean up your anti big 10 image. IMO, Wells is a late round first rounder IMO, he's injury prone, and doesnt use his size as well as he could. If Mendenhall slipped into the late half of the first he certainly will. He's been a big fish in a small pound and that will come back to bite him in the nfl.

Wells is quite a bit better than Mendenhall -- he finished fourth in OSU history in rushing despite not starting until his sophomore year. He put up good numbers against good competition ... 106 against Texas this year in the bowl game, 146 last year against LSU, consecutive 200 yard games against Michigan (not a great D I know, but a rivalry game).The health issue is a big one, and teams are right to be concerned about it. But there's also little question that Wells is the best back in this draft, and has the biggest upside. There are teams near the top and in the middle that need runners, so I would be surprised if he lasts into the 20s. Stranger things have happened, but if Wells stays healthy he's going to be an NFL force.

Ive also heard murmurs that he's not a "love to play football" guy, and one person reported to me (unconfirmed) that he refused to practice at times this year. I agree that his physical talent is more of a top 15 back, but with RBs available for cheap via trade/FA, I'm not sure what the incentive is to take a bust risk with a premium pick (not that teams don't overlook bust risk because of exceptional tools with regularity). I would imagine that Larry Johnson could be had for a 3rd (or less). Derrick Ward for a modest contract. Guys like Edge and Fred Taylor as a one year rental for almost nothing. I just think RB is the position where teams have the least reason to take on risk for potential production, because of the glut of viable options.Wells, Vontae Davis, and Michael Johnson are definitely going to be among the most fun prospects to debate this Spring.

You're not wrong about the desire thing ... there have been questions about that, and they're legit. However, no one who covered the Ohio State beat on a regular basis ever heard Wells missing practice this season -- other than when he was down with his foot injury. I sometimes wonder about how tough he is, and for being a big guy he IS nicked up an awful lot and putting his hand up to beg out of games.If talent wins out he'll be a higher pick. Some teams will legitimately be concerned about his toughness/injury history and drop him down, however.Again, nice job with this exercise. It's obvious you put a lot of thought into it and are passionate in your reasoning.

 

[Wadsworth]

Concerning Wells vs Knowshon:

I know the Big Ten RB bust trend has been discussed but when looking at Wells does this list not concern you?

Rashard Mendenhall

Laurence Maroney

Chris Perry

Larry Johnson

T.J. Duckett

Michael Bennett

Ron Dayne

Curtis Enis

Tim Biakabutuka

Eddie George

Ki-Jana Carter

Tyrone Wheatley

First round Big ten RBs since 1995.

Just for comparison the SEC over the same time period:

Darren McFadden

Felix Jones

Joseph Addai

Ronnie Brown

Cadillac Williams

Deuce McAllister

Jamal Lewis

Shaun Alexander

Fred Taylor

Robert Edwards

John Avery

James Stewart

I know different people have different ideas on how trends should be used in drafting, but with the Wells vs Knowshon debate this season does these lists play any part in how you rank these two players?

 

[TheFanatic]

Concerning Wells vs Knowshon:

I know the Big Ten RB bust trend has been discussed but when looking at Wells does this list not concern you?

Rashard Mendenhall - Bust? Really. Jury still out maybe?

Laurence Maroney

Chris Perry

Larry Johnson - Wha?!?

T.J. Duckett

Michael Bennett

Ron Dayne

Curtis Enis

Tim Biakabutuka

Eddie George - What are you smoking?

Ki-Jana Carter

Tyrone Wheatley

First round Big ten RBs since 1995.

Just for comparison the SEC over the same time period:

Darren McFadden - how can this guy be considered as something and Mendenhall not after 1 year and little to show for it?

Felix Jones - another guy that is listed as something after 1 and little to show other than some flashes of brilliance and injuries

Joseph Addai - wait till the system vs. talent crowd get into this discussion

Ronnie Brown

Cadillac Williams - which list should he belong on if you exclude the conference?

Deuce McAllister

Jamal Lewis

Shaun Alexander

Fred Taylor

Robert Edwards - so?

John Avery - so?

James Stewart

I know different people have different ideas on how trends should be used in drafting, but with the Wells vs Knowshon debate this season does these lists play any part in how you rank these two players?

 

[William Munny]

I would be very disappointed if the Bears took Sanchez

 

[TheFanatic]

With Favre announcing his retirement, and let's pretend he actually means it (I know it's a long shot) do you still see Sanchez getting past the Jets at 17?

 

[Wadsworth]

Concerning Wells vs Knowshon:

I know the Big Ten RB bust trend has been discussed but when looking at Wells does this list not concern you?

Rashard Mendenhall - Bust? Really. Jury still out maybe?

Laurence Maroney

Chris Perry

Larry Johnson - Wha?!?

T.J. Duckett

Michael Bennett

Ron Dayne

Curtis Enis

Tim Biakabutuka

Eddie George - What are you smoking?

Ki-Jana Carter

Tyrone Wheatley

First round Big ten RBs since 1995.

Just for comparison the SEC over the same time period:

Darren McFadden - how can this guy be considered as something and Mendenhall not after 1 year and little to show for it?

Felix Jones - another guy that is listed as something after 1 and little to show other than some flashes of brilliance and injuries

Joseph Addai - wait till the system vs. talent crowd get into this discussion

Ronnie Brown

Cadillac Williams - which list should he belong on if you exclude the conference?

Deuce McAllister

Jamal Lewis

Shaun Alexander

Fred Taylor

Robert Edwards - so?

John Avery - so?

James Stewart

I know different people have different ideas on how trends should be used in drafting, but with the Wells vs Knowshon debate this season does these lists play any part in how you rank these two players?

First round Big ten RBs since 1995.

Just for comparison the SEC over the same time period:

Those are lists, not a list of busts. I left it up to each person to rate the busts/not busts. I think the lists speak for themselves.

 

[The Jacket]

If Mayock hadn't hyped Curry up like he's Ray Lewis, there would be ZERO mocks giving him to the Chiefs for $60 million.

Mark my words: this overrated SLB will NOT be a top-five pick.

 

[TheFanatic]

Concerning Wells vs Knowshon:

I know the Big Ten RB bust trend has been discussed but when looking at Wells does this list not concern you?

Rashard Mendenhall - Bust? Really. Jury still out maybe?

Laurence Maroney

Chris Perry

Larry Johnson - Wha?!?

T.J. Duckett

Michael Bennett

Ron Dayne

Curtis Enis

Tim Biakabutuka

Eddie George - What are you smoking?

Ki-Jana Carter

Tyrone Wheatley

First round Big ten RBs since 1995.

Just for comparison the SEC over the same time period:

Darren McFadden - how can this guy be considered as something and Mendenhall not after 1 year and little to show for it?

Felix Jones - another guy that is listed as something after 1 and little to show other than some flashes of brilliance and injuries

Joseph Addai - wait till the system vs. talent crowd get into this discussion

Ronnie Brown

Cadillac Williams - which list should he belong on if you exclude the conference?

Deuce McAllister

Jamal Lewis

Shaun Alexander

Fred Taylor

Robert Edwards - so?

John Avery - so?

James Stewart

I know different people have different ideas on how trends should be used in drafting, but with the Wells vs Knowshon debate this season does these lists play any part in how you rank these two players?

First round Big ten RBs since 1995.

Just for comparison the SEC over the same time period:

Those are lists, not a list of busts. I left it up to each person to rate the busts/not busts. I think the lists speak for themselves.

Not a big sample for either side. Not so sure that there is enough power in the sample size to make any quantifiable claim that one conference is better than the other. Maybe taking all RB's from all rounds from the two different conferences but this doesn't do much. Particularly putting in first year guys. I see what you are trying to say but the evidence that the SEC puts out better RB's is anecdotal at best.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

5. Cleveland - Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State - Cleveland’s defense was poor against the pass, poor against the run, poor at getting after the QB, poor in just about every respect - in a division with arguably the two best defenses in the league. They need a signature player to build around, and they may have to look no farther than a 142 mile drive down I-71 to Columbus for the answer. Jenkins is a physical shutdown corner, and he could be the same kind of force Darrelle Revis was for Eric Mangini right off the bat in New York.

The Browns biggest need is finding a pass rusher.Two years ago in the 2007 season the Browns finished sixth from the bottom in the league with only 28 sacks. Last year the Browns anticipated an improvement with the pass rush but that fell through when OLB Antwan Peek was lost to IR three days before the season began.

From July of last yer before Peek went down with his injury:

http://www.theclevelandfan.com/article_detail.php?id=3501

... "Obviously, last year we didn't have as many sacks as we would have liked to have. That's an area we've been focusing on... ...If we can get some push in the middle from those big guys and they can push the middle of the pocket, the quarterback will not be able to step up. If we can get push in the middle the quarterback has to stay in that spot, then those speed guys have a chance." Crennel

"Last year, Wimbley would beat the guy around the corner, but the guard would help out. With the inside push that we have now, he should easily top his production from his rookie season." ~ un-named Browns official

Public service reminder, don't overlook Antwan Peek on the opposite side. Last year many forget that Peek was coming on in camp before he got injured.

"I've played against a lot of guys, and he's got it all, baby." Browns OT Ryan Tucker last year commenting on Antwan Peek's pass rush ability

Peek is healthy and the Browns are counting on him to provide pass rush from his side of the field to take pressure off of Wimbley. I believe a significant improvement in the pass rush is possible if Antwan Peek brings the heat. He is the lynchpin of the pass rush in my humble opinion. If he has a breakout year, or even just a solid year, say six sacks, then it could trigger lots of turnovers and force the timing of passing plays to blow up as opposing quarterbacks will have to get rid of the ball sooner before wide recievers have time to get into the breaks of their pass routes. I think Peek has double digit sack potential which would do far more than just taking pressure off of Wimbley, he could turn into his own pass rush force. That might be asking too much, so if he stays healthy he is very capable of six sacks and that would be enough to take pressure off Wimbley. Wimbley is ready to explode again this year.

"There were a lot of sacks that I was close to making, I just didn't make them. This year I have to make those." Browns LB Kamerion Wimbley

The Browns just cut Antwan Peek and only have Willie McGhinnest who announced last year he was going to retire. Basically the Browns have no OLB worthy of starting opposite of Kamerion Wimbley and Kam's pass rush dropped from double digits his rookie season to half of that his second and third seasons. Oh and the Browns pass rush plummeted from 28 sacks in 2007 to a pitiful 17 sacks last year.

It doesn't matter how many shut down CBs the Browns would have on their roster is the opposing QB has all day to throw the rock.

I like Jenkins but the biggest need on the Browns is pass rusher.

The Browns just got done cutting Peek and McGhinnest probably is going to retire.

The hope is that somehow we land T-Suggs in free agency but Terrell has already stated he would give the Ravens a home town discount to re-up with Baltimore.

Oh and Arron Curry only had 2.5 sacks last year and Rey-Rey had zero sacks. I would focus on B. Orackpo or E. Brown in the next mock.

 

[RUSF18]

I'd be really surprised if the Niners went with a WR. The talent level on the roster isn't fantastic, but there's enough to get it done if the QB has time to throw. Just too many pressing needs in other areas.

Any of the remaining OTs, Raji, Orakpo or a similar pass rusher, maybe even Malcolm Jenkins would probably have a better chance of being the pick (understand that you have some of these guys already gone in your mock, but something to consider later).

 

[Wadsworth]

Not a big sample for either side. Not so sure that there is enough power in the sample size to make any quantifiable claim that one conference is better than the other. Maybe taking all RB's from all rounds from the two different conferences but this doesn't do much. Particularly putting in first year guys. I see what you are trying to say but the evidence that the SEC puts out better RB's is anecdotal at best.

You can increase the sample and it still holds, and it's not just the SEC. The ACC for example has put far fewer RBs in the first round yet you have guys like Warrick Dunn, Thomas Jones, Tiki Barbar, and that's not even getting into the Miami RBs. Obviously as expected the hit rate is lower for rounds 2-3, but the trend still holds.Big Ten 2nd and 3rd rounders:Brian CalhounLadell BettsAnthony ThomasJoe MontgomeryRobert HolcombeChris FloydSedrick ShawTroy DavisTerrell FletcherSEC:Sherman WilliamsStephen DavisMoe WilliamsDuce StaleyJay GrahamJ.J. JohnsonKevin FaulkHeath EvansTravis HenryKenny IronsJerious NorwoodMusa SmithShawn Bryson

 

[Spike]

You're certainly not the first to do it, but I just can't see the Falcons going TE with all the defensive holes. I know he's not a deep threat, but Peelle showed he can be a decent outlet in the flats. You have Cushing going to NE right before us, but if they don't take him, I could see us going with Cushing, and of course, Laurinitis seems a decent fit as well.

I think I'd be disappointed with a TE, but, in any case where I disagree with Dimitroff, I'll assume I'm wrong at this point.

Isn't it cool to have that type of confidence in your front office personnel? (No sarcasm here.)

 

[Spike]

Enjoyed the mock. More of a "solid" NFL mock than a "fantasy football" mock, which is good to see.

One thing I'd like to say is that I would hope people don't lock in on the "he's a first round pick" or "he's not a first round pick".

Remember Sam Baker last year? Picked by the Falcons with the 21st pick of the first round. Lots of people panned the pick.

How'd that turn out?

It seems like some of these evaluators don't lock themselves into rankings WE seem to think are correct.

 

[Limp Ditka]

I would be very disappointed if the Bears took Sanchez

Any other franchise doing it around this spot in the draft, I wouldn't blink. The Bears plain and simply can not draft Sanchez here.The one big red flag everyone has about Sanchez is experience. The Bears have, over and over again, shown that they can not judge and develop QB talent. If they think they are going to develop this kid, when he's possibly already one step behind a normal college QB, they are just wasting a draft pick.

 

[Ariakis]

If Mayock hadn't hyped Curry up like he's Ray Lewis, there would be ZERO mocks giving him to the Chiefs for $60 million. Mark my words: this overrated SLB will NOT be a top-five pick.

Not sure about overrated but when you pick this high I think you ideally want a bookend OT, a QB, or someone so elite elsewhere that you can't pass him up. Just because the Chiefs have a glaring need at LB doesn't mean they'll pass on a franchise position. I say they take an OT to bookend last year's OT pick Albert (who could also slide back to OG).One of the reasons the Chiefs lost two QB's to injury was poor OL play. Whether it's Thigpen or another QB I think they need to upgrade OL. I could also see them going with Crabtree especially if they line up a trade for Tony G.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

2nd round added 2/11

 

[Wadsworth]

2nd round added 2/11

Big fall for Duke Robinson. I'm not saying I disagree, but I think #64 is the latest I've seen anyone mock him going.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

Duke falling that far is a bit of a head scratcher to me as well(although I did see a mock few days ago that has him slipping to the early third. Can't recall whose right now. I'll have to try and track it down.) You really think that has a shot at happening, Sig? And if it did....does that mean that there's some serious question(s) about something that the Steelers may not wanna touch?(Just waxing hypothetical.) Would love to hear your thoughts on the big drop.

If Pittsburgh could come out of their 1st two picks with with Meredith AND Duke, without having to move up in the 2nd, Steelers fan should be as happy as the proverbial pig in s@#$@#!

 

[Federal]

64. Pittsburgh - Duke Robinson, OG, Wisconsin Oklahoma...right?

Was hoping Cards would have a shot at him in the second, need lots of help with interior OL (RG and C).

GREAT STUFF BTW!!!

-FEDERAL

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

Duke falling that far is a bit of a head scratcher to me as well(although I did see a mock few days ago that has him slipping to the early third. Can't recall whose right now. I'll have to try and track it down.) You really think that has a shot at happening, Sig? And if it did....does that mean that there's some serious question(s) about something that the Steelers may not wanna touch?(Just waxing hypothetical.) Would love to hear your thoughts on the big drop.If Pittsburgh could come out of their 1st two picks with with Meredith AND Duke, without having to move up in the 2nd, Steelers fan should be as happy as the proverbial pig in s@#$@#!

Duke and Herman Johnson are tough guys to project because they are pretty much locked into being blunt force instruments, players to be wielded like a club in the power running game (although Robinson is better in pass pro than advertised). Robinson is not very mobile and kind of clumsy getting to the second level, and while he's strong, he's not quick, certainly not as quick as lot of the pass rush DTs in the NFL. I almost gave the Steelers Kraig Urbik instead, because I think he's the better all around player, and there's a lot of teams in the second that I would have given Urbik, not Robinson, if I put a guard in the 2nd. I just think the talent across the board on defense makes some for nice second round picks, and Robinson doesn't feel like a must have player for a lot of teams picking there. Its still pretty tough for straight up guards to crack the 2nd round, a lot of the guys who have the last few years have been players with OG/OT versatility.

 

[Ariakis]

Dallas may well take a WR but if Brace is there I think it's a no-brainer he's their choice. Whether Ratliff moves to DE to displace Canty or if Brace backs up Ratliff that's a huge need and possibly PBA. I could also very easily see them going Meredeth, Loadholt, or Duke Robinson if available.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

64. Pittsburgh - Duke Robinson, OG, Wisconsin Oklahoma...right?

Was hoping Cards would have a shot at him in the second, need lots of help with interior OL (RG and C).

GREAT STUFF BTW!!!

-FEDERAL

heh there's my unconscious urge to give the Steelers Urbik.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

Dallas may well take a WR but if Brace is there I think it's a no-brainer he's their choice. Whether Ratliff moves to DE to displace Canty or if Brace backs up Ratliff that's a huge need and possibly PBA. I could also very easily see them going Meredeth, Loadholt, or Duke Robinson if available.

Massive O-lineman just fits the Cowboys MO, I toyed with Robinson and Loadholt there. I don't know if I love Brace as a 3-4 nose (he's a little tall and plays pretty high for a 3-4 NT), but you're right to point that out as a place of need for the Cowboys and Brace is definitely a candidate to get taken by a 3-4 team.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

Duke falling that far is a bit of a head scratcher to me as well(although I did see a mock few days ago that has him slipping to the early third. Can't recall whose right now. I'll have to try and track it down.) You really think that has a shot at happening, Sig? And if it did....does that mean that there's some serious question(s) about something that the Steelers may not wanna touch?(Just waxing hypothetical.) Would love to hear your thoughts on the big drop.

If Pittsburgh could come out of their 1st two picks with with Meredith AND Duke, without having to move up in the 2nd, Steelers fan should be as happy as the proverbial pig in s@#$@#!

Duke and Herman Johnson are tough guys to project because they are pretty much locked into being blunt force instruments, players to be wielded like a club in a running game (although Robinson is better in pass pro than advertised). Robinson is not very mobile and kind of clumsy getting to the second level, and while he's strong, he's not quick, certainly not as quick as lot of the pass rush DTs in the NFL. I almost gave the Steelers Kraig Urbik instead, because I think he's the better all around player, and there's a lot of teams in the second that I would have given Urbik, not Robinson, if I put a guard in the 2nd. I just think the talent across the board on defense makes some for nice second round picks, and Robinson doesn't feel like a must have player for a lot of teams picking there. Its still pretty tough for straight up guards to crack the 2nd round, a lot of the guys who have the last few years have been players with OG/OT versatility.

Fair enough. I can buy that logic. And to be honest, as a Steeler fan myself, I'd probably be just as happy if you told me we'd come out of day one with Meredith/Urbik on board, without having to trade out of the 32 or 64 spots, regardless of what they did with their third rounder(s).

Duke and Herman Johnson are tough guys to project because they are pretty much locked into being blunt force instruments, players to be wielded like a club in a running game

That, right there, is just concentrated.....awesomeness.

 

[madd futher]

Mr. Bloom:

1. I LOVED your placement and write-up on Wells

2. McCoy will be a real bargain if he does fall into round #2.

3. Derrick Williams in round 2 to Dallas - just what they need - another underperforming WR to go with Roy Williams...LOL

3. I loved Robiskie in late round #2. I see this as a real value pick - kinda like the Matt Forte of the WR class.

 

[Rovers]

Sig,

Given your first round pick for the Jets, Asher had to be easy to take in the second. Having said that... when you mock, do you typically have a philosphy of need vs BPA, is it different for each team?

I apologize, but I am going to pick on your first round selection for the Jets.... again. Taking another look at the D and guessing as best I can what Ryan might do:

He has Pace and Thomas at OLB, and the so-far bust Gholston. I can see Pace playig Sugg's role. Thomas will likely stay and hold the fort, given the cap hit if released. Pace could also be rotated in at DE on passing downs. Ellis and Coleman don't scare anyone, but proved last year with Jenkins at NT they can play the run well enough.

Harris at ILB and who? Bart Scott? Barton is an unsigned FA right now. Bowens was awful when he filled in for the injured Harris. Given these postional players, do you really think they will go for another DE in the first?

I do agree with the commentary, the Jets need another all purpose RB behind Jones. Leon Washington and Jones both escaped the injury bug, and they were the only two RB's on the roster, excepting for FB Ton ny Richardson, who has stated he'd like to return.

Lastly, the O line was also injury free, and good thing because it has zero depth.

Needs as I see them:

CB (BIG time!)

RB, especially given Ryan's staements about how much he wants to run the ball, and not so coincidentally, a young QB.

ILB

O line depth, maybe a Guard or a versatile kid who might be able to play C/G as a backup.

DE

DeVito has not looked horrible, even decent at times at DE. Mosely fit in OK in the rotation.

In Andy's mock, I did go CB, RB and OG. Wanted an ILB but never much liked the ones available vs the other available position players. I never even though about a DE, in large part because I tend to mock based on need much more tham BPA, unless an absolute gift falls in my lap.

Just some fodder for any quiet moments you have to reflect on the important things in life.

 

[Rovers]

Duke falling that far is a bit of a head scratcher to me as well(although I did see a mock few days ago that has him slipping to the early third. Can't recall whose right now. I'll have to try and track it down.) You really think that has a shot at happening, Sig? And if it did....does that mean that there's some serious question(s) about something that the Steelers may not wanna touch?(Just waxing hypothetical.) Would love to hear your thoughts on the big drop.

If Pittsburgh could come out of their 1st two picks with with Meredith AND Duke, without having to move up in the 2nd, Steelers fan should be as happy as the proverbial pig in s@#$@#!

Duke and Herman Johnson are tough guys to project because they are pretty much locked into being blunt force instruments, players to be wielded like a club in a running game (although Robinson is better in pass pro than advertised). Robinson is not very mobile and kind of clumsy getting to the second level, and while he's strong, he's not quick, certainly not as quick as lot of the pass rush DTs in the NFL. I almost gave the Steelers Kraig Urbik instead, because I think he's the better all around player, and there's a lot of teams in the second that I would have given Urbik, not Robinson, if I put a guard in the 2nd. I just think the talent across the board on defense makes some for nice second round picks, and Robinson doesn't feel like a must have player for a lot of teams picking there. Its still pretty tough for straight up guards to crack the 2nd round, a lot of the guys who have the last few years have been players with OG/OT versatility.

Fair enough. I can buy that logic. And to be honest, as a Steeler fan myself, I'd probably be just as happy if you told me we'd come out of day one with Meredith/Urbik on board, without having to trade out of the 32 or 64 spots, regardless of what they did with their third rounder(s).

Duke and Herman Johnson are tough guys to project because they are pretty much locked into being blunt force instruments, players to be wielded like a club in a running game

That, right there, is just concentrated.....awesomeness.

Talk about word efficiency... LOL... but I have to admit I'd love to see Herman Johnson run onto the field in a Jets uniform with 2nd and goal at the three.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

Talk about word efficiency... LOL... but I have to admit I'd love to see Herman Johnson run onto the field in a Jets uniform with 2nd and goal at the three.

Hell, as poor as the Steeler were in short yardage last season, I could almost be convinced to be happy to see him running onto the field in a Pittsburgh uniform....and playing tailback...with 2nd and goal at the three.

 

[CletiusMaximus]

41. Green Bay - Clay Matthews, LB/DE, USC

I'll be very happy if this guy is available for the Packers at #41.

 

[Ariakis]

Dallas may well take a WR but if Brace is there I think it's a no-brainer he's their choice. Whether Ratliff moves to DE to displace Canty or if Brace backs up Ratliff that's a huge need and possibly PBA. I could also very easily see them going Meredeth, Loadholt, or Duke Robinson if available.

Massive O-lineman just fits the Cowboys MO, I toyed with Robinson and Loadholt there. I don't know if I love Brace as a 3-4 nose (he's a little tall and plays pretty high for a 3-4 NT), but you're right to point that out as a place of need for the Cowboys and Brace is definitely a candidate to get taken by a 3-4 team.

I know my Cowboys much better than the prospects at this point. I do know that Meredeth seems to be a safe OL i that if he doesn't work at OT he is very capable at OG. Loadholt has more upside but at his height could come with more risk. Duke just seems like a mauler and probably is gone before their pick anyway.So ... how would you rank NT's in this class? Who would you give a 1st or 2nd round grade to? I thought Brace would be a great fit. Do you see him as a 3-4 DE as well as a NT?

 

[Enforcer]

37. Seattle - LeSean McCoy, RB, Pittsburgh - McCoy isn’t going to be a power back, and he might be best served spending his rookie year watching, but he can restore the Seattle running game to a level it hasn’t been at since Shaun Alexander’s heyday.

Too many people call it "Shaun Alexander's heyday". Better to refer to it as Jones/Hutchinson heyday. I don't think a RB is the answer. I think a better offensive line is the answer. That said, I like that you have Seattle taking an OT in the first round. I did the same in the FBG Shark Pool Mock taking OT Monroe at 1.04 and WR Britt at 2.04.

 

[J Andersson]

Green Bay - BJ Raji, DTAfter watching him in the Senior Bowl I lost a lot of respect for him. I think they'll probably trade down.Thanks for doing this though.

I just can't let this pass! Why is that since pretty much everyone else have said he was the player that impressed them the most during Senior Bowl week?I can see an argument being made (as done by Bloom) that we don't know how Raji would suit as a 3-4 NT.

 

[bcr8f]

41. Green Bay - Clay Matthews, LB/DE, USC

I like this pick.

 

[bcr8f]

Green Bay - BJ Raji, DTAfter watching him in the Senior Bowl I lost a lot of respect for him. I think they'll probably trade down.Thanks for doing this though.

I just can't let this pass! Why is that since pretty much everyone else have said he was the player that impressed them the most during Senior Bowl week?I can see an argument being made (as done by Bloom) that we don't know how Raji would suit as a 3-4 NT.

In practice yes but did you watch the game? He was blocked effectively one on one and was often out of position. I'd rather see Ted trade down 10 spots and get an extra pick.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

Dallas may well take a WR but if Brace is there I think it's a no-brainer he's their choice. Whether Ratliff moves to DE to displace Canty or if Brace backs up Ratliff that's a huge need and possibly PBA. I could also very easily see them going Meredeth, Loadholt, or Duke Robinson if available.

Massive O-lineman just fits the Cowboys MO, I toyed with Robinson and Loadholt there. I don't know if I love Brace as a 3-4 nose (he's a little tall and plays pretty high for a 3-4 NT), but you're right to point that out as a place of need for the Cowboys and Brace is definitely a candidate to get taken by a 3-4 team.

I know my Cowboys much better than the prospects at this point. I do know that Meredeth seems to be a safe OL i that if he doesn't work at OT he is very capable at OG. Loadholt has more upside but at his height could come with more risk. Duke just seems like a mauler and probably is gone before their pick anyway.So ... how would you rank NT's in this class? Who would you give a 1st or 2nd round grade to? I thought Brace would be a great fit. Do you see him as a 3-4 DE as well as a NT?

I don't know if Brace is well suited for any of the 3-4 line positions. He seems like a 4-3 NT to me. 3-4 DEs seem to work best with long frames and some explosion, 3-4 NTs are best if they're shaped like washing machines. I don't know if there's a quality player suited to be a 3-4 NT in this crop. Terrance Taylor from Michigan has the right build, but he had a poor week at Shrine practices in Houston and didn't look the part. There are lots of good 3-4 DE types, led by Tyson Jackson (LSU) Fili Moala (USC), and Jarron Gilbert. The class is deep in big, tall ends with room to bulk up like Zach Potter (Nebraska), Rulon Davis (Cal), Will Johnson (Michigan), Khalif Mitchell (E Carolina).

 

[PatrickT]

I certainly like the concept of a hard hitting safety in the Milloy mold. I have an email out to my nephews, who are big Oregon fans, to find out more about Chung. Now, we'll need best available LB/DT/DE in the 3rd, I would think.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

37. Seattle - LeSean McCoy, RB, Pittsburgh - McCoy isn’t going to be a power back, and he might be best served spending his rookie year watching, but he can restore the Seattle running game to a level it hasn’t been at since Shaun Alexander’s heyday.

Too many people call it "Shaun Alexander's heyday". Better to refer to it as Jones/Hutchinson heyday. I don't think a RB is the answer. I think a better offensive line is the answer. That said, I like that you have Seattle taking an OT in the first round. I did the same in the FBG Shark Pool Mock taking OT Monroe at 1.04 and WR Britt at 2.04.

That's a fair characterization, and probably more accurate than giving credit to SA, but they have to bring in someone, whether it's a free agent, a rookie, or maybe a trade. Maurice Morris was their most effective back last year, he's a free agent, Julius Jones was a bust by and large, and if they have a chance to get a possible do everything, gamebreaking back in McCoy with their early 2nd, I think they'd pounce. Of course the Seahawks have often surprised with their 2nd round picks by having clarity on a perfect player to fill a need, it's just a player none of us anticipate in the 2nd round, like John Carlson or Lofa Tatupu - so watch them take an RB in the 2nd, but have it be someone like Rashad Jennings.

 

[munchkin]

Sigmund, what do you make of the discussion regarding Cushing and all the supplements he is supposed to be taking? How does a college kid get thousands of dollars a month to spend on supplements? Were these supplied by the team? I could see a company taking advantage of the advertisement value of such an agreement but otherwise WTF? Further, if he has reached his potential I don't see Belichick going for a "FLoor Guy" in the first (or second for that matter. Based on your player breakdowns I coould see them taking Pettigrew, Casey or Meredith.

One last, and ultimately more important point, we pulled of a great trade of our own; 4 Mansfield for 4 first night JB!!!!!

Bag it Tag it......

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

Sigmund, what do you make of the discussion regarding Cushing and all the supplements he is supposed to be taking? How does a college kid get thousands of dollars a month to spend on supplements? Were these supplied by the team? I could see a company taking advantage of the advertisement value of such an agreement but otherwise WTF? Further, if he has reached his potential I don't see Belichick going for a "FLoor Guy" in the first (or second for that matter. Based on your player breakdowns I coould see them taking Pettigrew, Casey or Meredith.One last, and ultimately more important point, we pulled of a great trade of our own; 4 Mansfield for 4 first night JB!!!!!Bag it Tag it......

Right on, I wont be at Hampton, so first night JB will be a lot of our "first show back" back on topic...I'll just say this, Cushing was MAXXED OUT at the Senior Bowl weigh-in. His muscles were almost overdeveloped and you could tell his frame would not be able to support any more bulk - not that he plays like a stiff or a guy who has sacrificed athleticism for muscle - but he definitely has the frame of one. I can't say that his game has peaked out, but his physique has.I'm not one to start rumors, and I have no first-hand information on Cushing, but the reports about the supplements are out there, and let's face it, there are just some guys (Gholston was one last year) whose physiques automatically make you wonder if they're the result of something more than the weight room. Its probably irresponsible for me to say even that much about Cushing without any information, but I know it had to be on the mind of many of the people at the Senior Bowl weigh-in when he stepped up to the scale.

 

[Bizkiteer]

Unless they sign a OT in FA, the Redskins will take whatever of the 4 top OT's are left on the board @ #13. If they happen to all be gone, expect a trade down and getting more picks from the 'Skins.

 

[BusMan]

I agree that Denver needs to get some OL depth in this draft, but if Chung is still on the board in the second they'd have to strongly consider him.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

I agree that Denver needs to get some OL depth in this draft, but if Chung is still on the board in the second they'd have to strongly consider him.

I went back and forth between giving them OL and a safety. The value definitely lines up for them to get one of the top two or three safeties in the 2nd round.

 

[Enforcer]

37. Seattle - LeSean McCoy, RB, Pittsburgh - McCoy isn’t going to be a power back, and he might be best served spending his rookie year watching, but he can restore the Seattle running game to a level it hasn’t been at since Shaun Alexander’s heyday.

Too many people call it "Shaun Alexander's heyday". Better to refer to it as Jones/Hutchinson heyday. I don't think a RB is the answer. I think a better offensive line is the answer. That said, I like that you have Seattle taking an OT in the first round. I did the same in the FBG Shark Pool Mock taking OT Monroe at 1.04 and WR Britt at 2.04.

That's a fair characterization, and probably more accurate than giving credit to SA, but they have to bring in someone, whether it's a free agent, a rookie, or maybe a trade. Maurice Morris was their most effective back last year, he's a free agent, Julius Jones was a bust by and large, and if they have a chance to get a possible do everything, gamebreaking back in McCoy with their early 2nd, I think they'd pounce. Of course the Seahawks have often surprised with their 2nd round picks by having clarity on a perfect player to fill a need, it's just a player none of us anticipate in the 2nd round, like John Carlson or Lofa Tatupu - so watch them take an RB in the 2nd, but have it be someone like Rashad Jennings.

That's a fair analysis. Hard to argue with that. It will be interesting to see where emphasis is placed in the new regime with Mora. Perhaps Britt would have been a more likely pick in a Holmgren led draft, whereas Mora will be more likely to invest in his running game.

 

[Ridgelake]

Dallas may well take a WR but if Brace is there I think it's a no-brainer he's their choice. Whether Ratliff moves to DE to displace Canty or if Brace backs up Ratliff that's a huge need and possibly PBA. I could also very easily see them going Meredeth, Loadholt, or Duke Robinson if available.

Massive O-lineman just fits the Cowboys MO, I toyed with Robinson and Loadholt there. I don't know if I love Brace as a 3-4 nose (he's a little tall and plays pretty high for a 3-4 NT), but you're right to point that out as a place of need for the Cowboys and Brace is definitely a candidate to get taken by a 3-4 team.

I know my Cowboys much better than the prospects at this point. I do know that Meredeth seems to be a safe OL i that if he doesn't work at OT he is very capable at OG. Loadholt has more upside but at his height could come with more risk. Duke just seems like a mauler and probably is gone before their pick anyway.So ... how would you rank NT's in this class? Who would you give a 1st or 2nd round grade to? I thought Brace would be a great fit. Do you see him as a 3-4 DE as well as a NT?

I don't know if Brace is well suited for any of the 3-4 line positions. He seems like a 4-3 NT to me. 3-4 DEs seem to work best with long frames and some explosion, 3-4 NTs are best if they're shaped like washing machines. I don't know if there's a quality player suited to be a 3-4 NT in this crop. Terrance Taylor from Michigan has the right build, but he had a poor week at Shrine practices in Houston and didn't look the part. There are lots of good 3-4 DE types, led by Tyson Jackson (LSU) Fili Moala (USC), and Jarron Gilbert. The class is deep in big, tall ends with room to bulk up like Zach Potter (Nebraska), Rulon Davis (Cal), Will Johnson (Michigan), Khalif Mitchell (E Carolina).

Sigmund,Enjoying your mocks. LOTS of very insightful picks throughout. Overall, one of the best ones I've seen.Lets talk about my favorite team, Dallas. Ariakis mentioned the DL and OL possibilities. As of now, Dallas has 2 roster spots available for DL. And their reserve/developmental Oline group is not good at all.But lets talk about another spot. Safety. Dallas has all of 1 legititmate safety on the roster, Ken Hamlin. He is a very good free safety. At strong safety, you hava the about-to-be-cut Roy Williams. Yes, the coverage dynamo. And you have UFA Keith Davis who has been Roy's backup. Its doubtful that RFA Pat Watkins will be back. And forget the talk of moving Anthony Henry to FS. At least in the base defense. (yes, very good nickle safety, however) Hamlin is not a good every-down SS due to tackling. Dallas won't line up with Henry and Hamlin as base defense safeties. No where near enough tackling/run support.So Dallas has a starting spot available at SS. Based upon your board, Chung, Sean Smith, and the Johnson kid from Alabama would be not unlikely choices. They may even move up to grab a guy like Delmas. The other need spot is ILB. I've got to run, but I'll make another post later on that subject.

 

[Idiot Boxer]

A tackle and a guard for the Steelers in Rds 1 & 2. Please,please,please,please,please,please,please,please,please,please,please,ple

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please,please,please,please,please,please,please,please,please,please,please,ple

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please,please,please,please,please,please,please,please,

let this happen.

 

[Ridgelake]

Back from my meeting.

We've discussed Dallas's needs at safety, DL, and OL. Lets turn our attention to the last need area, ILB. As of today, Dallas has under contract Brady James and then question marks. Dallas has 2 UFA ILBs from last season, Zach Thomas, and Kevin Burnett. I think they'd like to keep Burnett if the price is right. But he seems much better suited to a 4-3 WOLB. I don't think they can expect either to re-sign.

The likely starter next to Brady James, today, would be Bobby Carpenter. He's entering his 4th season after being a bench warmer for 3 seasons. He has shown some flashes in training camp. Is this the year they finally get some return on the 18th pick in the 2006 draft? Behind James and Carpenter are true special teamers Polk and Rogers. I don't think anyone expects them to play in the regular defense. I personally think Carpenter will be at least adequate, but I'm decidedly in the minority with that opinion.

So unless Dallas signs a FA, there is need at ILB.

The position that I did not mention as a need is WR. Even assuming TO is cut, they have RW, Austin, Crayton, Hurd, and Stanback. The first three are solid, though Austin is a RFA. I'd be shocked if he isnt re-signed. Hurd is nothing special, but he's serviceable. Many consider Stanback a bust. But he's entering his 3rd year after converting from college QB. By many accounts, he's the most physically gifted WR on the roster, inclusive of TO. His significant list of injuries his first two seasons no doubt lowers his perceived value in many fans' eyes. But lets be real. The guy was drafted as a development project. Receivers typically take 3 years to develop, even those who played the position in college. Austin made the jump from barely on the roster to WR3 between his 2nd and 3rd seasons. Stanback is coming into his 3rd year. They are going to give him every chance to show he's worth the work and time they've put into him.

The bottom line is that any receiver drafted is going to have a tough time sticking around. I would be shocked to see them take one in the first 4 rounds. There are so many other roster spots available and really not an apparent need.

 

[Shlon]

You're certainly not the first to do it, but I just can't see the Falcons going TE with all the defensive holes. I know he's not a deep threat, but Peelle showed he can be a decent outlet in the flats. You have Cushing going to NE right before us, but if they don't take him, I could see us going with Cushing, and of course, Laurinitis seems a decent fit as well.I think I'd be disappointed with a TE, but, in any case where I disagree with Dimitroff, I'll assume I'm wrong at this point.

I agree, I would rather get a TE through FA... a LB like Laurinaitis or Cushing in the 1st and a Safety like Chung in the 2nd would be great. With a possibility of both Brooking & Boley being gone we would need another LB as well...

 

[munchkin]

I like the DT Jarron Gilbert pick in the second followed by the CB Sean Smith. Seymour will be drawing 9 million against the cap next year and if he doesn't re-negotiate he may go the way of Lawyer Milloy. I am not sure who they would put in his place if that happened but they need to use some of his money to sign Wilfork to a long term deal. Maybe there is an Anthony Pleasant type out there in free agency they could use along with Le Kevin Smith to hold down the fort until an up and coming Rookie matures into full time duty a la Ty Warren.