kremenull
Footballguy
Link to Rev 1.
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March 4, 2009
1st ROUND
1. Detroit Lions Jason Smith OT 6’5” 305 Baylor
The Lions are desperately in need of generating some excitement to its long-suffering fan base and will give strong consideration to a QB here. But in the final analysis, none of these QBs are worthy of the top selection and the surest bet is to select one of the top OL in this bumper crop. It’s time for the Lions organization to admit that the “Jeff Backus as Left Tackle Experiment” has been a failure. Jason Smith has solidified a Top 3 selection by having a terrific offseason and has the tools to be a future Pro Bowl LT. But if Stafford wows ‘em at his upcoming pro day, the Lions may be fooled into taking him with the #1 selection. Similar QB value can be had by them at #20 or #33, so why take the risk at #1.
2. St. Louis Rams B.J. Raji NT 6’2” 330 Boston College
With a brand new coach on board with a tough, defensive mind-set, look for the Rams to set the tone for their future by drafting multiple interior players to add depth along both sides of the line of scrimmage. Raji brings great athleticism and quickness to the interior of the defensive front and will team with last year’s first rounder Chris Long to form a strong, young nucleus for years to come in St. Louis. An OT like Jason Smith or Monroe will also be given strong consideration with this pick.
3. Kansas City Chiefs Everette Brown OLB/DE 6’4” 255 Florida St.
With new GM Scott Pioli calling the shots, the Chiefs will look to build with players blessed with versatility and smarts ala the NE Patriots. The ’08 Chiefs were last in the league in sacks and must get after the QB if their young team is to improve in ’09. After a nice haul from the ’08 draft, I would not be surprised to see the Chiefs try to move down, maybe even multiple times, and select Brown or a similar player a little further down. If they can find a trading partner that is truly enamored with either LB Curry, OT J.Smith, Crabtree, or either of the top two QBs, the Chiefs will move to acquire more, or even future, picks. But since this is a no trade mock, Brown is the pick here as he brings a nonstop motor with very good athleticism to immediately upgrade the speed off the edge for K.C.
4. Seattle Seahawks Eugene Monroe OT 6’6” 315 Virginia
Virtually every mock I’ve seen is on auto-pick here with Crabtree as the selection. Sorry, but it simply ain’t going to happen…..Yes, the grammatical choice was intentional for emphasis. The Seahawks will either choose a defensive player here, such as DE Brian Orakpo or LB Aaron Curry, or an OT. My gut tells me they go for the LT prospect in Eugene Monroe, Monroe is the guy who kept last year’s fast riser Branden Albert playing inside at UVA, so the talent is there for him to be an elite LT in the pros. This pick is also a prime spot for a team looking to trade up (I would not be surprised to see the Raiders, Packers, Browns, or 49ers look to move up here to select Orakpo or Curry).
5. Cleveland Browns Aaron Curry LB 6’3” 250 Wake Forest
As he did with the Jets a few years ago in selecting Revis, Mangini begins his tenure in Cleveland addressing the defense. Curry is one of the surest things in this draft and a legit Top 5 talent, blessed with top notch speed, toughness, and instincts. Curry will be a starter from Day 1 and a perennial Pro Bowler in no time. This is probably the easiest selection to project in the entire draft, and that’s only if Curry is available here.
6. Cincinnati Bengals Michael Oher OT 6’5” 320 Ole Miss
The Bengals have several needs to address, but it’s much more difficult/costly to acquire an upper echelon OT in free-agency or via trade than it is to simply draft a potential stud and develop him. Oher has plenty of skeptics but has plenty of tools to work with and could develop into a superb LT in the mold of a Richmond Webb, as he has excellent feet and the frame to get stronger over the years to grow as a run blocker.
7. Oakland Raiders Brian Orakpo DE 6’4” 260 Texas
As tempted as Al Davis may be to land an elite WR prospect with this selection, the Raiders would be better off drafting either an O-lineman or D-lineman here to shore up at least one of their more glaring weaknesses over the past few years, pass protection and pressuring the passer. Very good WRs can be had in free-agency or through a trade, can you say Anquan Boldin, but it’s almost impossible to land a stud OT or DE through any avenue other than to draft one. My call here is that Al Davis does the right thing, hopefully. If Orakpo is off the board, then all bets may be off and Mr. Maclin just may don the Silver & Black next season.
8. Jacksonville Jaguars Jeremy Maclin WR 6’1” 205 Missouri
The Jags continue their (seemingly) never-ending search for a top-flight WR. This time, they take a game-breaker in Maclin. Blessed with great speed and elusiveness, the smooth-striding Maclin has star potential in abundance. This guy effortlessly glides up, down, and across the field reminiscent of “The Freak”…that’s right, Randy Moss. Once he puts it all together, and it’s just a matter of time, watch out! With MJD projected to assume a bigger role on offense, he may need to be taken off special teams. And here is where Maclin offers added value: the return game – as J-Mac is an electric return man and with his addition, the Jaguars will boast two very dynamic, all-around talents in MJD and Maclin. Not a no-brainer pick, but the best pick, IMO. The Jags should be able to fill some other holes (OT) in F.A. or later in the draft…..a bit of a giveaway for their next selection…..
9. Green Bay Packers Vontae Davis CB 6’0” 200 Illinois
The Packers defense fell off big-time in ’08 from the previous season, in large part due to the lack of heat on opposing QBs. With Orakpo off the board, the value for the remaining edge rushers is a bit too low for this spot, so the Pack go BPA and select the freakishly athletic CB Davis to invigorate the secondary. At worst, Davis will start out as a nickel back and special teamer but should crack the starting lineup at some point during his rookie campaign.
10. San Francisco 49’ers Mark Sanchez QB 6’3” 225 USC
Even though a player of Crabtree’s stature is still available to them at #10, the 49ers must give strong consideration for a QB here. The Alex Smith debacle should not sway them in their decision here and I believe that Sanchez will be the pick. Learning from their mistakes with A.Smith, Sanchez will essentially redshirt his rookie season behind Shaun Hill and take over starting duties in 2010. Sanchez should be an excellent fit for the ball-control style that HC Singletary wants to implement as he (Sanchez) is both very accurate and very mobile.
11. Buffalo Bills Aaron Maybin OLB/DE 6’4” 245 Penn St.
In need of adding speed of the edge to pressure QBs, the Bills fall back on their track record and get back to what they invariably do….draft players from big-time programs/conferences, and the Bills love drafting players from the Big 10…..Maybin is a talented edge rusher who is a bit of a ‘tweener but looks like he’ll at least initially have a role as a nickel/dime package rush end. If he can either bulk up or learn to play standing up, Maybin has the ability to be a special playmaker in the pros with his combination of first-step quickness, closing speed, and high motor.
12. Denver Broncos Rey Maualuga LB 6’2” 260 USC
Many reports are claiming that Maualuga is falling like a rock, but I just don’t see it. The new scheme that DC Mike Nolan will implement calls for a tough, strong, and smart inside thumper LB to direct the defense. Big Rey fits the bill and would be an ideal choice here as it would also allow D.J. Williams to focus more on playmaking out in space.
13. Washington Redskins Michael Johnson DE 6’7” 265 Georgia Tech
The ‘Skins defense lacks a premier pass rusher. Although Johnson hasn’t had the huge production in college to match his freakish athleticism, his best football appears to be ahead of him and the Skins are looking to attack more up front. With the Skins signing both Haynesworth and DeAngelo Hall in F.A., this defense suddenly looks a lot more daunting. One of the USC “Studly 3” LBs could be considered here as well as London Fletcher indeed makes a lot of tackles, but they all seem to be at least 5-6 yards down the field. This could be considered a bit of a reach, but Johnson gets the nod here since the ‘Skins primary weakness is putting pressure on the QB and Snyder and the rest of the Redskins’ brass will go “gaa-gaa” over Johnson’s physical prowess and go for the upside.
14. New Orleans Saints Brian Cushing LB 6’3” 255 USC
After striking it big with the selection of Sedrick Ellis last year, the Saints dip back into the Trojan pool of talent and tab the very versatile and athletic LB Cushing. Cushing can play inside/outside as well as blitz and he will find a starting spot somewhere very quickly.
15. Houston Texans Malcolm Jenkins CB 6’1” 205 Ohio St.
After having a not so great combine, Jenkins lands in the #15 spot and is good value here as he is a very good football player. Probably not the guy you will want to leave out on an island (man-to-man all day), Jenkins is a good combo corner who can play both zone/man coverages as his football IQ and instincts will place him in position to make plays. Starting with this selection, adding one or two more pieces here and there could propel the Texans into contention in ’09.
16. San Diego Chargers Knowshon Moreno RB 5’11” 215 Georgia
The Chargers are faced with the fact that the face of their franchise for the past 8 years is showing that he is a mere mortal, just like all of us. And faced with that reality, the Chargers have shown to be a franchise that is willing to make the necessary moves to keep pushing forward in the team’s best interest. I would not be the least bit surprised to see S.D. part ways with LT this offseason. With Moreno’s added bulk, I believe he has solidified a top 20 selection and will be the heir apparent to LT in S.D.
17. New York Jets Matt Stafford QB 6’3” 225 Georgia
The Jets have to find the future franchise QB soon, and selecting Stafford here and finding a stopgap veteran QB in F.A. would solidify the position under a new regime. But if they are faced with having to throw Stafford into the fire this year, it could be disastrous as I believe he is at least a year away from any type of NFL readiness.
18. Chicago Bears Michael Crabtree WR 6’1 ½” 215 Texas Tech
The fall stops here as the Bears are ecstatic that a player of Crabtree’s stature would still be on the board here. Crabtree (hopefully) provides the Bears with a counter to G.Jennings and Calvin in their own division as they hope to present matchup problems on the outside to their opponents. Equipped with excellent hands, consistency, and competitiveness, Crabtree should fit in nicely as a complement to Matt Forte’s tough, inside running. The passing game is immediately upgraded and Hester can be utilized more on special teams and less at WR.
19. Tampa Bay Bucs Percy Harvin WR/KR 5’11” 195 Florida
“Chucky” is gone, so the Bucs may finally look to acquire a young RB, especially with Cadillac suffering another knee injury. With the recent signing of Derrick Ward, Harvin would be an ideal fit for the slot receiver position in Tampa and could also find a prominent role in a ‘wildcat’ type of formation alongside Ward/Graham. Or he may also be employed as a Reggie Bush type of RB who is primarily used in the passing game but also receives about 8-10 carries per game and a few punt returns. Blessed with tremendous playmaking ability, Harvin would add another dimension to a team in need of playmakers on offense.
20. Detroit Lions Josh Freeman QB 6’5” 245 Kansas St.
The Lions would do themselves well here if they are able to land a promising QB prospect like Freeman here to groom for at least one year behind Culpepper, for whom Freeman is similar in style and stature. But if they do opt for the QB at #1, then by all means they should follow-up with some protection up front for the youngster at this spot.
21. Philadelphia Eagles William Beatty OT 6’6” 305 Connecticut
Andy Reid is a proponent of drafting linemen early and often in the draft. With Andre Smith falling like a rock, he may get consideration here but Beatty is less risk and has a better outlook as a left tackle than Smith. The value vs. need here is probably a bit skewed towards need, but with NFL coaching Beatty’s best football could be ahead of him. Smith is probably the logical choice, but not the safer one and HC Reid will side with the safer bet as he realizes the Eagles’ window is closing rather quickly and he can’t afford to miss on this one.
22. Minnesota Vikings Jared Cook TE 6’4” 250 S.Carolina
After lighting up the combine, Cook is on the rise, big-time. An explosive player with athleticism to rival just about any other TE in the game, Cook will stretch the deep seams of the defense which in turn will open up space underneath for Sidney Rice as well as Peterson/Taylor out of the backfield. The Vikes would receive a big plus, IMO, if this is indeed their selection.
23. New England Patriots Clint Sintim LB 6’3” 255 Virginia
Although not as physically gifted as Orakpo/Brown, Sintim has a very quick first step off the edge and can hold strong at the point of attack. These attributes combined with the loss of Vrabel makes this a very needy as well as obvious pick. Playing for Al Groh in a similar Parcells-style 3-4 system is another intangible that a coach like Belichick values.
24. Atlanta Falcons Peria Jerry DT 6’2” 290 Ole Miss
The Falcons made huge strides this past season and appear to be on the upswing. However, one of their most glaring weaknesses is still in stopping the run. Statistics aside, their personnel up front simply isn’t all that good in comparison to the much tougher teams they will invariably face in ’09 (scheduling upgrade). An active, penetrating inside force like Jerry would be an ideal fit for Mike Smith’s defense based on his schemes that he utilized when he was the DC in Jacksonville.
25. Miami Dolphins Darius Butler CB 5’11” 190 Connecticut
Given that the ‘Fins are in an up-and-coming division (AFC East), they must increase their overall talent level as they seriously over-achieved in ’08. Butler is a supremely talented athlete with all the tools to become an upper-echelon CB in the NFL. Miami will certainly need to upgrade their secondary if they expect to compete in the strong AFC East going forward.
26. Baltimore Ravens Darius Heyward-Bey WR 6’2 ” 205 Maryland
The Ravens once again showed that they can compete with any team in the league even without an explosive offense. But it is time to add a serious threat at the skill position and DHB would provide just that. Mason still probably has some value to them as a slot receiver only, and Clayton’s role should increase going forward, but neither warrants being the #1 WR on any team. DHB has the talent, explosiveness, and size to become a #1 with some seasoning. Initially, he should at least be the deep-threat who can get behind secondaries and run under those Flacco rockets. This pick tremendously enhances Flacco’s value and rank in NFL, as well as fantasy, circles.
27. Indianapolis Colts Sen’Derrick Marks DT 6’2” 300 Auburn
A pick based strictly on need as the Colts are desperate for help up front, on both sides of the ball actually. But that front seven is simply not getting it done, especially in stopping the run. Bob Sanders has far too much responsibility in the run game for his smaller frame to hold up over the long haul and the Colts must immediately bring in some big boys up front to contain opposing ballcarriers.
28. Philadelphia Eagles Andre Smith OT 6’4 ½” 330 Alabama
After passing on Smith earlier to select Beatty, the Eagles land Smith here to jump-start the overhaul of their o-line. Value wise, it is probably worth it to bring such a talented guy on board and hope that he matures rather quickly. Smith may not ever develop into a blind-side protecting LT, but could become an outstanding mauler-type RT to replace the aging/fast-declining Jon Runyan. BPA (best player available) selection here although “Beanie” Wells will also get strong consideration here.
29. New York Giants Clay Matthews LB 6’3” 240 USC
Matthews just looks like a football player. He has enjoyed a tremendous offseason on the tails of his impressive late-season play for the Trojans. Blessed with NFL bloodlines, he could step in as a starter very early in the season as the Giants continue their record of making very solid draft selections of late.
30. Tennessee Titans Larry English DE 6’3” 260 Northern Illinois
The Titans blueprint is to employ a deep set of DL in order to apply pressure on the QB for 4 quarters, rotating guys in all day to keep them fresh. English is an intriguing prospect who could learn a lot from guys like KVB and Kearse and eventually replace Kearse in the rotation. One of the speedy WRs will get a strong look in the next couple of rounds as Tennessee still needs more playmakers out on the perimeter.
31. Arizona Cardinals Chris “Beanie” Wells RB 6’1” 235 Ohio St.
The Cardinals receive a gift here in Wells at this point of the draft. One year ago, there is no way that Wells would have been projected to land out of the Top 15, let alone the Top 30. If Wells is still available here, this is a no-brainer pick and quite possibly the steal of the draft. Although Wells has his detractors, if he holds up physically, he could produce some big-time numbers and help kill the clock at the end of games. Wells should step in immediately as the starter and push Hightower to 3rd down, COP duties. Everything appears to be coming up roses for a franchise that has been utterly inept for approximately 50 years. If the Cardinals are able to address their LT position this offseason, I would tab them as the favorite to win Super Bowl XLIV.
32. Pittsburgh Steelers Alex Mack C/G 6’4” 310 California
The Steelers o-line continues to regress and needs an upgrade in several positions. And as anyone who watched the Super Bowl can attest, center J.Hartwig was literally abused by Dockett on the interior all evening. Mack is probably the highest rated o-lineman still available and can play multiple interior positions. He should find a starting gig from Day 1 at either C or G for this team to the pleasure of Big Ben and the RBs.
2nd ROUND
33. Detroit Lions Alphonso Smith CB 5’9” 190 Wake Forest
Having to match up with G.B. in the passing game, new HC Schwartz gives a little attention to the defense here with a great value selection in the talented CB Smith.
34. New England Patriots D.J. Moore CB 5’10” 185 Vanderbilt
A guy from Vandy should have some smarts, and indeed Moore not only possesses the brains but also is blessed with the type of athleticism required to play the toughest position (outside of QB) on the field.
35. St. Louis Rams Eben Britton OT 6’6” 315 Arizona
With the high quality depth of this year’s OT crop, the Rams land another piece in their overhaul of the trenches. Britton is somewhat of a project but has the necessary feet and long frame to work with and he could develop into a very good NFL tackle.
36. Cleveland Browns Tyson Jackson DE 6’5” 290 LSU
3-4 teams need stout DEs and Jackson fits the bill perfectly here as a great value selection for Mangini
37. Seattle Seahawks William Moore S 6’1” 225 Missouri
I originally had a WR tabbed here until the Housh signing, so now new HC Mora can concentrate on what he knows best, defense. The athletic Moore is worth a shot here as his upside is still very high and he brings a physical presence to the backline of the “dee”
38. Cincinnati Bengals Robert Ayers DE 6’3” 270 Tennessee
The Bengals address the trenches in the first two rounds and look to apply pressure on the QB with a talented player in Ayers
39. Jacksonville Jaguars Troy Kropog OT 6’6” 315 Tulane
The primary reason why you select star potential in the 1st round ahead of “primary need” is when you have good, quality depth available at the position of primary need. Kropog is an NFL starter caliber LT who could be really, really good in a short time
40. Oakland Raiders Kenny Britt WR 6’4” 215 Rutgers
The underrated (and athletic) Britt could develop into a Colston type of WR at the NFL level….Big Al, just say no to T.O.
41. Green Bay Packers Ron Brace NT 6’3” 325 Boston College
New system (3-4) requires players to fit the new system
42. Buffalo Bills Brandon Pettigrew TE 6’6” 265 Oklahoma St.
Pettigrew would be a big reach, IMO, in the Top 12 as many have him going. I believe the Bills could still land him here at #42…….Patience is the word of the (draft) day
43. San Francisco 49’ers Sean Smith DB 6’3” 205 Utah
A superb athletic specimen who should fit in somewhere along the backline of the Niners defense
44. Miami Dolphins James Laurinaitis LB 6’3” 240 Ohio St.
A tough, instinctive, and athletic player, Laurinaitis could push his way into the starting lineup early on either inside or outside in the Dolphins 3-4 scheme.
45. New York Giants Brian Robiskie WR 6’2” 190 Ohio St.
Bye-bye Plaxico! I don’t see Plax playing another down for the Giants and this pick is made to turn the page on the situation. Robiskie is a solid, well prepared player who is the son of a former NFL player turned NFL coach….technically sound in the nuances of the game who favorably compares to his former college teammate - Anthony Gonzalez
46. Houston Texans Pat White QB 6’0” 205 West Virginia
Hmmmmm…..Schaub will be a bit uneasy about this one, as White is a very intriguing player who could immediately be used in some special packages and may ultimately be the QB to take the Texans to the next level
47. New England Patriots LeSean McCoy RB 5’11” 205 Pittsburgh
The rich get richer in offensive talent…..
48. Denver Broncos Louis Delmas S 5’11” 200 Western Michigan
The middle of the Broncos defense is officially shored up with their first two selections
49. Chicago Bears Evander Hood DT 6’4” 295 Missouri
With Harris getting nicked up almost every season, Hood provides much-needed depth to allow the Bears to cut down the number of snaps for each guy along the interior of the defense
50. Cleveland Browns Donald Brown RB 5’10” 215 Connecticut
A player on the rise who may not last this long
51. Dallas Cowboys Patrick Chung S 6’0” 210 Oregon
With the release of Roy Williams (the safety), the Cowboys reload with Chung
52. New York Jets Hakeem Nicks WR 6’1” 210 N.Carolina
Exit Coles, enter Nicks
53. Philadelphia Eagles Coye Francies CB 5’11” 195 San Jose St.
Andy Reid is a firm believer in deploying quality depth at the CB position. Francies steps in for the departed Sheppard and provides insurance if/when Brown or Samuel falls out of the picture
54. Minnesota Vikings Jamon Meredith OT 6’5” 315 S.Carolina
Time to look for McKinney’s (eventual) successor
55. Atlanta Falcons Rashad Johnson S 6’0” 190 Alabama
After getting torched by Fitz/Boldin in the playoffs, the Falcons must address their secondary, especially the middle of the field
56. Miami Dolphins Joaquin Iglesias WR 6’0” 195 Oklahoma
More (reliable) hands on deck needed in MIA
57. Baltimore Ravens Connor Barwin OLB/DE 6’4” 255 Cincinnati
Speed off the edge is a valuable commodity for 3-4 teams….Suggs needs a sidekick to apply pressure from both ends of the line
58. New England Patriots Phil Loadholt OT 6’4” 325 Oklahoma
Added protection for the Pats’ most prized entity (Brady)
59. Carolina Panthers Fili Moala DT 6’5” 295 USC
The Panthers add another big, active body up front to put in the d-line rotation
60. New York Giants Asher Allen CB 5’10” 190 Georgia
One of the most valued positions in the league (CB), you can never have too many and the Giants actually need one
61. Indianapolis Colts Duke Robinson OG 6’5” 330 Oklahoma
The interior of the Colts line has not held up well lately in pass pro nor opened up many holes in the running game. Their o-line must be addressed this offseason
62. Tennessee Titans Darry Beckwith LB 6’1” 235 LSU
In search of an upgrade at the “Mike” position, the Titans front seven still must replace “Baby Huey” Haynesworth at some point
63. Arizona Cardinals Augustus Parrish OT 6’5” 305 Kent St.
Russ Grimm has no problem working with (and molding) raw prospects such as Parrish, who possesses some of the necessary attributes (long arms, good feet) to develop into a nice NFL left tackle
64. Pittsburgh Steelers Herman Johnson 6'7" 370 LSU
A mammoth of a young man, Johnson is an intriguing guard prospect who may be versatile enough to play RT in a pinch. He must improve upon his strength, conditioning, and focus
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March 4, 2009
1st ROUND
1. Detroit Lions Jason Smith OT 6’5” 305 Baylor
The Lions are desperately in need of generating some excitement to its long-suffering fan base and will give strong consideration to a QB here. But in the final analysis, none of these QBs are worthy of the top selection and the surest bet is to select one of the top OL in this bumper crop. It’s time for the Lions organization to admit that the “Jeff Backus as Left Tackle Experiment” has been a failure. Jason Smith has solidified a Top 3 selection by having a terrific offseason and has the tools to be a future Pro Bowl LT. But if Stafford wows ‘em at his upcoming pro day, the Lions may be fooled into taking him with the #1 selection. Similar QB value can be had by them at #20 or #33, so why take the risk at #1.
2. St. Louis Rams B.J. Raji NT 6’2” 330 Boston College
With a brand new coach on board with a tough, defensive mind-set, look for the Rams to set the tone for their future by drafting multiple interior players to add depth along both sides of the line of scrimmage. Raji brings great athleticism and quickness to the interior of the defensive front and will team with last year’s first rounder Chris Long to form a strong, young nucleus for years to come in St. Louis. An OT like Jason Smith or Monroe will also be given strong consideration with this pick.
3. Kansas City Chiefs Everette Brown OLB/DE 6’4” 255 Florida St.
With new GM Scott Pioli calling the shots, the Chiefs will look to build with players blessed with versatility and smarts ala the NE Patriots. The ’08 Chiefs were last in the league in sacks and must get after the QB if their young team is to improve in ’09. After a nice haul from the ’08 draft, I would not be surprised to see the Chiefs try to move down, maybe even multiple times, and select Brown or a similar player a little further down. If they can find a trading partner that is truly enamored with either LB Curry, OT J.Smith, Crabtree, or either of the top two QBs, the Chiefs will move to acquire more, or even future, picks. But since this is a no trade mock, Brown is the pick here as he brings a nonstop motor with very good athleticism to immediately upgrade the speed off the edge for K.C.
4. Seattle Seahawks Eugene Monroe OT 6’6” 315 Virginia
Virtually every mock I’ve seen is on auto-pick here with Crabtree as the selection. Sorry, but it simply ain’t going to happen…..Yes, the grammatical choice was intentional for emphasis. The Seahawks will either choose a defensive player here, such as DE Brian Orakpo or LB Aaron Curry, or an OT. My gut tells me they go for the LT prospect in Eugene Monroe, Monroe is the guy who kept last year’s fast riser Branden Albert playing inside at UVA, so the talent is there for him to be an elite LT in the pros. This pick is also a prime spot for a team looking to trade up (I would not be surprised to see the Raiders, Packers, Browns, or 49ers look to move up here to select Orakpo or Curry).
5. Cleveland Browns Aaron Curry LB 6’3” 250 Wake Forest
As he did with the Jets a few years ago in selecting Revis, Mangini begins his tenure in Cleveland addressing the defense. Curry is one of the surest things in this draft and a legit Top 5 talent, blessed with top notch speed, toughness, and instincts. Curry will be a starter from Day 1 and a perennial Pro Bowler in no time. This is probably the easiest selection to project in the entire draft, and that’s only if Curry is available here.
6. Cincinnati Bengals Michael Oher OT 6’5” 320 Ole Miss
The Bengals have several needs to address, but it’s much more difficult/costly to acquire an upper echelon OT in free-agency or via trade than it is to simply draft a potential stud and develop him. Oher has plenty of skeptics but has plenty of tools to work with and could develop into a superb LT in the mold of a Richmond Webb, as he has excellent feet and the frame to get stronger over the years to grow as a run blocker.
7. Oakland Raiders Brian Orakpo DE 6’4” 260 Texas
As tempted as Al Davis may be to land an elite WR prospect with this selection, the Raiders would be better off drafting either an O-lineman or D-lineman here to shore up at least one of their more glaring weaknesses over the past few years, pass protection and pressuring the passer. Very good WRs can be had in free-agency or through a trade, can you say Anquan Boldin, but it’s almost impossible to land a stud OT or DE through any avenue other than to draft one. My call here is that Al Davis does the right thing, hopefully. If Orakpo is off the board, then all bets may be off and Mr. Maclin just may don the Silver & Black next season.
8. Jacksonville Jaguars Jeremy Maclin WR 6’1” 205 Missouri
The Jags continue their (seemingly) never-ending search for a top-flight WR. This time, they take a game-breaker in Maclin. Blessed with great speed and elusiveness, the smooth-striding Maclin has star potential in abundance. This guy effortlessly glides up, down, and across the field reminiscent of “The Freak”…that’s right, Randy Moss. Once he puts it all together, and it’s just a matter of time, watch out! With MJD projected to assume a bigger role on offense, he may need to be taken off special teams. And here is where Maclin offers added value: the return game – as J-Mac is an electric return man and with his addition, the Jaguars will boast two very dynamic, all-around talents in MJD and Maclin. Not a no-brainer pick, but the best pick, IMO. The Jags should be able to fill some other holes (OT) in F.A. or later in the draft…..a bit of a giveaway for their next selection…..
9. Green Bay Packers Vontae Davis CB 6’0” 200 Illinois
The Packers defense fell off big-time in ’08 from the previous season, in large part due to the lack of heat on opposing QBs. With Orakpo off the board, the value for the remaining edge rushers is a bit too low for this spot, so the Pack go BPA and select the freakishly athletic CB Davis to invigorate the secondary. At worst, Davis will start out as a nickel back and special teamer but should crack the starting lineup at some point during his rookie campaign.
10. San Francisco 49’ers Mark Sanchez QB 6’3” 225 USC
Even though a player of Crabtree’s stature is still available to them at #10, the 49ers must give strong consideration for a QB here. The Alex Smith debacle should not sway them in their decision here and I believe that Sanchez will be the pick. Learning from their mistakes with A.Smith, Sanchez will essentially redshirt his rookie season behind Shaun Hill and take over starting duties in 2010. Sanchez should be an excellent fit for the ball-control style that HC Singletary wants to implement as he (Sanchez) is both very accurate and very mobile.
11. Buffalo Bills Aaron Maybin OLB/DE 6’4” 245 Penn St.
In need of adding speed of the edge to pressure QBs, the Bills fall back on their track record and get back to what they invariably do….draft players from big-time programs/conferences, and the Bills love drafting players from the Big 10…..Maybin is a talented edge rusher who is a bit of a ‘tweener but looks like he’ll at least initially have a role as a nickel/dime package rush end. If he can either bulk up or learn to play standing up, Maybin has the ability to be a special playmaker in the pros with his combination of first-step quickness, closing speed, and high motor.
12. Denver Broncos Rey Maualuga LB 6’2” 260 USC
Many reports are claiming that Maualuga is falling like a rock, but I just don’t see it. The new scheme that DC Mike Nolan will implement calls for a tough, strong, and smart inside thumper LB to direct the defense. Big Rey fits the bill and would be an ideal choice here as it would also allow D.J. Williams to focus more on playmaking out in space.
13. Washington Redskins Michael Johnson DE 6’7” 265 Georgia Tech
The ‘Skins defense lacks a premier pass rusher. Although Johnson hasn’t had the huge production in college to match his freakish athleticism, his best football appears to be ahead of him and the Skins are looking to attack more up front. With the Skins signing both Haynesworth and DeAngelo Hall in F.A., this defense suddenly looks a lot more daunting. One of the USC “Studly 3” LBs could be considered here as well as London Fletcher indeed makes a lot of tackles, but they all seem to be at least 5-6 yards down the field. This could be considered a bit of a reach, but Johnson gets the nod here since the ‘Skins primary weakness is putting pressure on the QB and Snyder and the rest of the Redskins’ brass will go “gaa-gaa” over Johnson’s physical prowess and go for the upside.
14. New Orleans Saints Brian Cushing LB 6’3” 255 USC
After striking it big with the selection of Sedrick Ellis last year, the Saints dip back into the Trojan pool of talent and tab the very versatile and athletic LB Cushing. Cushing can play inside/outside as well as blitz and he will find a starting spot somewhere very quickly.
15. Houston Texans Malcolm Jenkins CB 6’1” 205 Ohio St.
After having a not so great combine, Jenkins lands in the #15 spot and is good value here as he is a very good football player. Probably not the guy you will want to leave out on an island (man-to-man all day), Jenkins is a good combo corner who can play both zone/man coverages as his football IQ and instincts will place him in position to make plays. Starting with this selection, adding one or two more pieces here and there could propel the Texans into contention in ’09.
16. San Diego Chargers Knowshon Moreno RB 5’11” 215 Georgia
The Chargers are faced with the fact that the face of their franchise for the past 8 years is showing that he is a mere mortal, just like all of us. And faced with that reality, the Chargers have shown to be a franchise that is willing to make the necessary moves to keep pushing forward in the team’s best interest. I would not be the least bit surprised to see S.D. part ways with LT this offseason. With Moreno’s added bulk, I believe he has solidified a top 20 selection and will be the heir apparent to LT in S.D.
17. New York Jets Matt Stafford QB 6’3” 225 Georgia
The Jets have to find the future franchise QB soon, and selecting Stafford here and finding a stopgap veteran QB in F.A. would solidify the position under a new regime. But if they are faced with having to throw Stafford into the fire this year, it could be disastrous as I believe he is at least a year away from any type of NFL readiness.
18. Chicago Bears Michael Crabtree WR 6’1 ½” 215 Texas Tech
The fall stops here as the Bears are ecstatic that a player of Crabtree’s stature would still be on the board here. Crabtree (hopefully) provides the Bears with a counter to G.Jennings and Calvin in their own division as they hope to present matchup problems on the outside to their opponents. Equipped with excellent hands, consistency, and competitiveness, Crabtree should fit in nicely as a complement to Matt Forte’s tough, inside running. The passing game is immediately upgraded and Hester can be utilized more on special teams and less at WR.
19. Tampa Bay Bucs Percy Harvin WR/KR 5’11” 195 Florida
“Chucky” is gone, so the Bucs may finally look to acquire a young RB, especially with Cadillac suffering another knee injury. With the recent signing of Derrick Ward, Harvin would be an ideal fit for the slot receiver position in Tampa and could also find a prominent role in a ‘wildcat’ type of formation alongside Ward/Graham. Or he may also be employed as a Reggie Bush type of RB who is primarily used in the passing game but also receives about 8-10 carries per game and a few punt returns. Blessed with tremendous playmaking ability, Harvin would add another dimension to a team in need of playmakers on offense.
20. Detroit Lions Josh Freeman QB 6’5” 245 Kansas St.
The Lions would do themselves well here if they are able to land a promising QB prospect like Freeman here to groom for at least one year behind Culpepper, for whom Freeman is similar in style and stature. But if they do opt for the QB at #1, then by all means they should follow-up with some protection up front for the youngster at this spot.
21. Philadelphia Eagles William Beatty OT 6’6” 305 Connecticut
Andy Reid is a proponent of drafting linemen early and often in the draft. With Andre Smith falling like a rock, he may get consideration here but Beatty is less risk and has a better outlook as a left tackle than Smith. The value vs. need here is probably a bit skewed towards need, but with NFL coaching Beatty’s best football could be ahead of him. Smith is probably the logical choice, but not the safer one and HC Reid will side with the safer bet as he realizes the Eagles’ window is closing rather quickly and he can’t afford to miss on this one.
22. Minnesota Vikings Jared Cook TE 6’4” 250 S.Carolina
After lighting up the combine, Cook is on the rise, big-time. An explosive player with athleticism to rival just about any other TE in the game, Cook will stretch the deep seams of the defense which in turn will open up space underneath for Sidney Rice as well as Peterson/Taylor out of the backfield. The Vikes would receive a big plus, IMO, if this is indeed their selection.
23. New England Patriots Clint Sintim LB 6’3” 255 Virginia
Although not as physically gifted as Orakpo/Brown, Sintim has a very quick first step off the edge and can hold strong at the point of attack. These attributes combined with the loss of Vrabel makes this a very needy as well as obvious pick. Playing for Al Groh in a similar Parcells-style 3-4 system is another intangible that a coach like Belichick values.
24. Atlanta Falcons Peria Jerry DT 6’2” 290 Ole Miss
The Falcons made huge strides this past season and appear to be on the upswing. However, one of their most glaring weaknesses is still in stopping the run. Statistics aside, their personnel up front simply isn’t all that good in comparison to the much tougher teams they will invariably face in ’09 (scheduling upgrade). An active, penetrating inside force like Jerry would be an ideal fit for Mike Smith’s defense based on his schemes that he utilized when he was the DC in Jacksonville.
25. Miami Dolphins Darius Butler CB 5’11” 190 Connecticut
Given that the ‘Fins are in an up-and-coming division (AFC East), they must increase their overall talent level as they seriously over-achieved in ’08. Butler is a supremely talented athlete with all the tools to become an upper-echelon CB in the NFL. Miami will certainly need to upgrade their secondary if they expect to compete in the strong AFC East going forward.
26. Baltimore Ravens Darius Heyward-Bey WR 6’2 ” 205 Maryland
The Ravens once again showed that they can compete with any team in the league even without an explosive offense. But it is time to add a serious threat at the skill position and DHB would provide just that. Mason still probably has some value to them as a slot receiver only, and Clayton’s role should increase going forward, but neither warrants being the #1 WR on any team. DHB has the talent, explosiveness, and size to become a #1 with some seasoning. Initially, he should at least be the deep-threat who can get behind secondaries and run under those Flacco rockets. This pick tremendously enhances Flacco’s value and rank in NFL, as well as fantasy, circles.
27. Indianapolis Colts Sen’Derrick Marks DT 6’2” 300 Auburn
A pick based strictly on need as the Colts are desperate for help up front, on both sides of the ball actually. But that front seven is simply not getting it done, especially in stopping the run. Bob Sanders has far too much responsibility in the run game for his smaller frame to hold up over the long haul and the Colts must immediately bring in some big boys up front to contain opposing ballcarriers.
28. Philadelphia Eagles Andre Smith OT 6’4 ½” 330 Alabama
After passing on Smith earlier to select Beatty, the Eagles land Smith here to jump-start the overhaul of their o-line. Value wise, it is probably worth it to bring such a talented guy on board and hope that he matures rather quickly. Smith may not ever develop into a blind-side protecting LT, but could become an outstanding mauler-type RT to replace the aging/fast-declining Jon Runyan. BPA (best player available) selection here although “Beanie” Wells will also get strong consideration here.
29. New York Giants Clay Matthews LB 6’3” 240 USC
Matthews just looks like a football player. He has enjoyed a tremendous offseason on the tails of his impressive late-season play for the Trojans. Blessed with NFL bloodlines, he could step in as a starter very early in the season as the Giants continue their record of making very solid draft selections of late.
30. Tennessee Titans Larry English DE 6’3” 260 Northern Illinois
The Titans blueprint is to employ a deep set of DL in order to apply pressure on the QB for 4 quarters, rotating guys in all day to keep them fresh. English is an intriguing prospect who could learn a lot from guys like KVB and Kearse and eventually replace Kearse in the rotation. One of the speedy WRs will get a strong look in the next couple of rounds as Tennessee still needs more playmakers out on the perimeter.
31. Arizona Cardinals Chris “Beanie” Wells RB 6’1” 235 Ohio St.
The Cardinals receive a gift here in Wells at this point of the draft. One year ago, there is no way that Wells would have been projected to land out of the Top 15, let alone the Top 30. If Wells is still available here, this is a no-brainer pick and quite possibly the steal of the draft. Although Wells has his detractors, if he holds up physically, he could produce some big-time numbers and help kill the clock at the end of games. Wells should step in immediately as the starter and push Hightower to 3rd down, COP duties. Everything appears to be coming up roses for a franchise that has been utterly inept for approximately 50 years. If the Cardinals are able to address their LT position this offseason, I would tab them as the favorite to win Super Bowl XLIV.
32. Pittsburgh Steelers Alex Mack C/G 6’4” 310 California
The Steelers o-line continues to regress and needs an upgrade in several positions. And as anyone who watched the Super Bowl can attest, center J.Hartwig was literally abused by Dockett on the interior all evening. Mack is probably the highest rated o-lineman still available and can play multiple interior positions. He should find a starting gig from Day 1 at either C or G for this team to the pleasure of Big Ben and the RBs.
2nd ROUND
33. Detroit Lions Alphonso Smith CB 5’9” 190 Wake Forest
Having to match up with G.B. in the passing game, new HC Schwartz gives a little attention to the defense here with a great value selection in the talented CB Smith.
34. New England Patriots D.J. Moore CB 5’10” 185 Vanderbilt
A guy from Vandy should have some smarts, and indeed Moore not only possesses the brains but also is blessed with the type of athleticism required to play the toughest position (outside of QB) on the field.
35. St. Louis Rams Eben Britton OT 6’6” 315 Arizona
With the high quality depth of this year’s OT crop, the Rams land another piece in their overhaul of the trenches. Britton is somewhat of a project but has the necessary feet and long frame to work with and he could develop into a very good NFL tackle.
36. Cleveland Browns Tyson Jackson DE 6’5” 290 LSU
3-4 teams need stout DEs and Jackson fits the bill perfectly here as a great value selection for Mangini
37. Seattle Seahawks William Moore S 6’1” 225 Missouri
I originally had a WR tabbed here until the Housh signing, so now new HC Mora can concentrate on what he knows best, defense. The athletic Moore is worth a shot here as his upside is still very high and he brings a physical presence to the backline of the “dee”
38. Cincinnati Bengals Robert Ayers DE 6’3” 270 Tennessee
The Bengals address the trenches in the first two rounds and look to apply pressure on the QB with a talented player in Ayers
39. Jacksonville Jaguars Troy Kropog OT 6’6” 315 Tulane
The primary reason why you select star potential in the 1st round ahead of “primary need” is when you have good, quality depth available at the position of primary need. Kropog is an NFL starter caliber LT who could be really, really good in a short time
40. Oakland Raiders Kenny Britt WR 6’4” 215 Rutgers
The underrated (and athletic) Britt could develop into a Colston type of WR at the NFL level….Big Al, just say no to T.O.
41. Green Bay Packers Ron Brace NT 6’3” 325 Boston College
New system (3-4) requires players to fit the new system
42. Buffalo Bills Brandon Pettigrew TE 6’6” 265 Oklahoma St.
Pettigrew would be a big reach, IMO, in the Top 12 as many have him going. I believe the Bills could still land him here at #42…….Patience is the word of the (draft) day
43. San Francisco 49’ers Sean Smith DB 6’3” 205 Utah
A superb athletic specimen who should fit in somewhere along the backline of the Niners defense
44. Miami Dolphins James Laurinaitis LB 6’3” 240 Ohio St.
A tough, instinctive, and athletic player, Laurinaitis could push his way into the starting lineup early on either inside or outside in the Dolphins 3-4 scheme.
45. New York Giants Brian Robiskie WR 6’2” 190 Ohio St.
Bye-bye Plaxico! I don’t see Plax playing another down for the Giants and this pick is made to turn the page on the situation. Robiskie is a solid, well prepared player who is the son of a former NFL player turned NFL coach….technically sound in the nuances of the game who favorably compares to his former college teammate - Anthony Gonzalez
46. Houston Texans Pat White QB 6’0” 205 West Virginia
Hmmmmm…..Schaub will be a bit uneasy about this one, as White is a very intriguing player who could immediately be used in some special packages and may ultimately be the QB to take the Texans to the next level
47. New England Patriots LeSean McCoy RB 5’11” 205 Pittsburgh
The rich get richer in offensive talent…..
48. Denver Broncos Louis Delmas S 5’11” 200 Western Michigan
The middle of the Broncos defense is officially shored up with their first two selections
49. Chicago Bears Evander Hood DT 6’4” 295 Missouri
With Harris getting nicked up almost every season, Hood provides much-needed depth to allow the Bears to cut down the number of snaps for each guy along the interior of the defense
50. Cleveland Browns Donald Brown RB 5’10” 215 Connecticut
A player on the rise who may not last this long
51. Dallas Cowboys Patrick Chung S 6’0” 210 Oregon
With the release of Roy Williams (the safety), the Cowboys reload with Chung
52. New York Jets Hakeem Nicks WR 6’1” 210 N.Carolina
Exit Coles, enter Nicks
53. Philadelphia Eagles Coye Francies CB 5’11” 195 San Jose St.
Andy Reid is a firm believer in deploying quality depth at the CB position. Francies steps in for the departed Sheppard and provides insurance if/when Brown or Samuel falls out of the picture
54. Minnesota Vikings Jamon Meredith OT 6’5” 315 S.Carolina
Time to look for McKinney’s (eventual) successor
55. Atlanta Falcons Rashad Johnson S 6’0” 190 Alabama
After getting torched by Fitz/Boldin in the playoffs, the Falcons must address their secondary, especially the middle of the field
56. Miami Dolphins Joaquin Iglesias WR 6’0” 195 Oklahoma
More (reliable) hands on deck needed in MIA
57. Baltimore Ravens Connor Barwin OLB/DE 6’4” 255 Cincinnati
Speed off the edge is a valuable commodity for 3-4 teams….Suggs needs a sidekick to apply pressure from both ends of the line
58. New England Patriots Phil Loadholt OT 6’4” 325 Oklahoma
Added protection for the Pats’ most prized entity (Brady)
59. Carolina Panthers Fili Moala DT 6’5” 295 USC
The Panthers add another big, active body up front to put in the d-line rotation
60. New York Giants Asher Allen CB 5’10” 190 Georgia
One of the most valued positions in the league (CB), you can never have too many and the Giants actually need one
61. Indianapolis Colts Duke Robinson OG 6’5” 330 Oklahoma
The interior of the Colts line has not held up well lately in pass pro nor opened up many holes in the running game. Their o-line must be addressed this offseason
62. Tennessee Titans Darry Beckwith LB 6’1” 235 LSU
In search of an upgrade at the “Mike” position, the Titans front seven still must replace “Baby Huey” Haynesworth at some point
63. Arizona Cardinals Augustus Parrish OT 6’5” 305 Kent St.
Russ Grimm has no problem working with (and molding) raw prospects such as Parrish, who possesses some of the necessary attributes (long arms, good feet) to develop into a nice NFL left tackle
64. Pittsburgh Steelers Herman Johnson 6'7" 370 LSU
A mammoth of a young man, Johnson is an intriguing guard prospect who may be versatile enough to play RT in a pinch. He must improve upon his strength, conditioning, and focus
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