Exploded (Iterative, Flux) Mock (1 Viewer)

[Bob Magaw]

NOTE - latest edit/add... i decided to modify original intent a little... i will try & do a complete 32 team first round mock... in stages, with a staggered release... i will work from pick #1 systematically (now that i have rams out of the way)... please keep the input & feedback coming... i will keep running list below in this first post of the thread... depending on the nature & quality of the input & feedback, i may even reshuffle earlier picks as i go, & before getting to the end...

a FLUX MOCK!

___________________________________________________________________

this thread was inspired by evil grin's excellent recent mock...

instead, i just would like homers to pitch in & contribute who YOU would get for YOUR team at YOUR slot, not accounting for trades... i don't expect to get 32 responses for all teams (& more than one write-up per team is encouraged), nor will i cobble together a full blown mock from the projected fragments of this thread... but i'm very interested in hearing your aggregate insights...

i'll start with the rams...

a look at some defensive prospects at #11 position...

for the record, since vernon davis has the physical traits to become one of the best TEs ever, i think you have to take special players that can be massive difference makers...

i could also make a case for trading down... after elite 10-15 players, there is a lot of similarity in how the next 40-50 players grade... the guy they might get at #10 might not be a lot better than guy they could get at #20... than they could add another pick in the 40-50 range... you guessed it... who could be as good as the hypothetical player at #10 or the player at #20... its like getting a free player...

that said, lets operate as if they keep the pick... & stick to defense, with offense admittedly not being biggest weakness on team...

DT - ngata could go as high as BUF at #8... the FA signings so far (glover, chavous & witherspoon) strongly suggests that linehan & staff he has assembled values players that are high character & smart... not sure, but i think some scouts are concerned that ngata takes plays off & has inconsistent motor... bunkley has been climbing up boards... he has had similar question marks & red flags... but his stock is rising nonetheless due to his phenomenal combine workout... about 300 lbs, came within one lift (44) of breaking the bench rep record... than proceeded to blaze a sub 5.0 40... some STL fans are gun shy about getting a DT after the experiences with lewis, pickett & kennedy... if they got it wrong in past, how long is the team supposed to organizationally impose a moratorium on drafting first round DTs? while armey & zygmunt presumably had input in past & could be partly responsible for past mistakes, the new staff should be given a clean slate & not be held accountable for previous blunders completely unrelated to their judgement & decision making... if they deem DT represents best convergence of talent & need... so be it... but i thing they go in a different direction...

DE - no way mario drops... leaving out trade up scenarios (for LB hawk, too)... tamba hali could be next best DE... it could be a little bit of a reach, but maybe not... he would be a good fit as high character, hard worker-type... he has a relentless motor & he has endured a lot to reach this level... i don't get the sense he will slack off now that he has arrived... he will just work harder... a month or two ago i thought matthias kiwanuka would be good value here, but he didn't impress particularly at senior bowl or combine... tantalizing measurables & upside... but he could be a blown pick... i don't think linehan wants to stake his very first pick as a HC on such a dicey prospect...

DE/3-4 OLB tweeners - manny lawson & kamerion wimbley (SP?)... could be a little early, though ware & merriman zoomed up board this time last year due to their similar athleticism & versatility... lawson is a straight freak (230, 4.4, 40"+ vertical)... but i'm not sold they have the personnel to execute a 3-4... didn't glover just leave DAL because he wasn't good fit for that scheme? OTOH, if lawson is enough of a freak... he could maybe play 4-3 SLB, & could be an awesome weapon as a blitzer...

OLB - many scouts grade greenway as second best in class... others think his stock dropped some when he underwhelmed at combine with unexpectedly poor strength test numbers & 40 time... he has been identified as better prospect at WLB... but he has decent SLB size, is plenty fast to cover TEs, & was lauded for his smoothness in coverage & probably best among all LBs (hawk pretty good, too... so that would be good company)... i think he would be fine at SLB... strength questions... as well as those about his ability to get off blocks at next level are legitimate concerns... but he could be a gamer who developes into a very solid player (tatupu didn't have off-the-charts measurables, either, & look how he turned out)... he has nice intangibles & seems to have passion for game & desire to get better... sounds like a linehan kind of player, & spoon, 5-0 & greenway could be a nice LB nucleus to build the rest of the D around... i am of the opinion that ernie simms is the second best LB in draft... is he just a WLB? mayock (scout mike of nfl.com) thinks he could play all three positions... maybe he could flip with tino at WLB/SLB? since he is same size as witherspoon, & coaching staff has already revealed a willingness to think outside the box in spoon's case, perhaps he could be projected as MLB as well (comp players used by mayock were derrick brooks AND jonathan vilma)... simms has super high intensity, & had to be held out of some of HIS OWN practices so he didn't bust up his teammates any more than was necessary... rams defense has missed that kind of intensity & willingess to punish the opposing offense... that kind of energy infusion & excitement can be contagious (see bob sanders for IND) & ripple through entire D & ignite entire team... d'qwell jackson is my next favorite LB, but this is probably too early... i don't know about his football IQ (questions have been raised), but he seems to have requisite energy, enthusiasm & relish for contact... he is mostly thought of as MLB (where he started four seasons at maryland), but mayock thinks he could also play all three positions... demeco ryans stock has dropped as expected because his measurables weren't astounding... he could be like greenway another gamer... he also has very impressive intangibles & character, & could be a linehan player on those grounds... also has decent size & could play SLB... but this could also be a bit of a reach... possibly a good trade down target... he also has some risk due to lack of speed & explosiveness, so imo this also would not be ideal candidate for initial linehan 1st rounder...

ILB - already covered (& dismissed) idea of jackson this early... it would be far too early for next best MLB/ILB abdul hodge... they might even have shot at him in round two... but if they are serious about having spoon in middle, hard to justify this pick... unlike d'qwell, i think he would strictly be a MLB/ILB... some rams insiders have already suggested spoon at MLB not set in stone... possibly they could change mind if jackson or hodge are there in second (if they didn't already get simms or greenway), slide witherspoon back to accustomed WLB & bump somewhat undersized but very athletic tinoisamoa back to SLB where he played as a rookie (he can definitely blitz & cover... his shuttle & cone drill times at his combine were as good as elite DBs at his combine... from SLB tino flashed playmaker skills rarely seen from the position, with multiple sacks, FFs & INTs in 2003)...

S/CB - huff & jimmy williams have some similarities in that both could be the best safety AND CB... huff seems squeeky clean in character dept... not so with williams, which could preclude his pick... unless the really do homework on background check & come away satisfied... i haven't seen a lot of huff film but have heard the whispers that he is soft & grab tackle accusations... all i know, furrey & archuleta weren't even doing that... they would just whiff & it would be a 30-40 yard run... his smokin 4.3 speed could make him the perfect last line of defense... he will make mistakes as a rookie... but seems to have superior instincts & range to make up for them... he was a playmaker at college... i think school record in defensive TDs (returned 4 of 5 career INTs for TD)... & in national championship game... recovered collosal bush fumble blunder (a fumblunder TM)... & made the stop on 4th & 2 of lendale white in biggest play of game... white played that game at about 250 (15 lbs of which was holiday cooking) & huff managed to "drag him down" short of first down... i think there is something to be said about playmaking FS... not sure if darren sharper is a monster tackler, but he was a pro bowler in GB & that team enjoyed success during his tenure...

THE PICK... ERNIE SIMMS (STL could come back with FS daniel bullocks or OG max jean-gilles in second)... i also wouldn't mind vernon davis, huff, hali, bunkley & greenway, probably in that order... rams might come back with d'qwell jackson or hodge in second (if they don't get simms or greenway in round one already), or above two second round candidates... OL & secondary could use depth (possibly starting caliber players), as could DL...

secrest out

1) HOU - Reggie Bush, RB (USC)

2) NO -

3) TEN -

4) NYJ -

5) GB -

6) SF -

7) OAK -

8) BUF -

9) DET -

10 ARI -

11) STL - Ernie Simms, LB (Florida State)

to be cont.

 

[MLBrandow]

I'd have thought to pencil in Ngata because of the hybrid 34 / 43 they will run next year.....

This is a great read. If it weren't almost 5am est, I'd dig up posts I've made in the Bucs offseason thread and others.

In short, I see two probable picks for the Bucs in the first round:

1) Sinorice Moss

2) Eric Winston

 

[Bob Magaw]

I'd have thought to pencil in Ngata because of the hybrid 34 / 43 they will run next year.....

This is a great read. If it weren't almost 5am est, I'd dig up posts I've made in the Bucs offseason thread and others.

In short, I see two probable picks for the Bucs in the first round:

1) Sinorice Moss

2) Eric Winston

thanx... cut & paste your threads later...BTW, i project BUF to take ngata... but if i were the rams, i would pass even if he is on the board & take simms instead... i THINK ngata will be a player... but i KNOW simms is going to be a superstar... ngata doesn't look like jonathan sullivan, it just seems like some of those big guys with inconsistent motors are very hit & miss... of course all positions have their bust risks & carry a probably nearly evenly distributed & symmetrical risk... doubtful if there are any intrinsically "safer" positions (though a statistical study of that subject would be interesting)... so history says simms COULD be brian boswell or quentin coryatt... but i find that scenario less likely than that of ngata underwhelming...

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Thanks for the kind words, Bob.

For the Steelers, here is how i see it, position by position...

QB - No chance. Re-signing Batch to be the #2 today. I fully expect they'll draft a QB, but not in round 1, obviously. With Maddox gone, they'll need a #3, and I could easily see a second day pick (compensatory?) going to a developmental QB.

RB - Possibility, but unlikely. I disagree firmly with the myriad posters that have been saying : "They know Parker isn't the answer." Hogwash. I think they're firmly behind Parker as their lead back - what more does the guy need to do? He started one game at the end of the '04 season and gained over 100 against Buffalo. Early this season, when Duce and Bettis were hurt, he was averaging something like 120 ypg, getting the full load of carries. He may be the fastest back in the league, and he has very little mileage on him. However, the Steeler offense begs for a power back that can grind out yards late in games when they have a lead and are working the clock. Duce Staley is going to be that guy this year, but we all know his injury history, which is why RB becomes a possibility. However, I think the only way it happens is if big value falls to them. They're not going to reach for a guy like Addai here - if LenDale White falls, however.... all bets are off. This is very unlikely, obviously, but he's a perfect back for their system and would represent a huge value here.

WR - This is where I think they might go. This isn't an outstanding WR class, which would appear to be a negative, but picking at #32, what it does is give them a crack at all the receivers in the draft, save for maybe 2. As maligned as this class is, the odds are that someone will be the breakout guy, and looking at WR3, it gives the Steelers more upside potential with this pick than any other position. Assuming Holmes and Jackson are gone here, does Sinorice Moss make sense (assuming Tampa doesn't grab him at #23)? Maybe. While the traditional thought process has a big receiver slotting in with Wilson and Ward, I think what they need more than anything is a vertical threat. Guys like, oh, I don't know... Sinorice's BROTHER and Steve Smith have dispelled the notion that size is imperative to being a big-time vertical threat. Sinorice Moss might make perfect sense here, another WR would be a reach, and I don't know if they want to wait until pick 64 and hope that a Martin Nance or Maurice Stovall is still around.

TE - No chance. Miller last year - enough said.

OT - You never know. Are they 100% sold on Max Starks as the RT going forward? Are they satisfied with Trai Essex as the primary backup? The Steeler offense derives its success from the line and the value at OT is likely to be there at #32. McNeill, Whitworth, Scott, Winston - these are guys with upside that could be around at #32. It may not be a "need" spot, but when you're the defending champs, you have the luxury of drafting the best available player, not just addressing need. It could happen.

OG - See OT, this could be even more likely. If Faneca gets hurt, they are in big trouble. Simmons has a history of injury. Their main backup here is Chris Kemoeatu, who has never taken a regular season snap, depsite the potential he has, the Steelers are thin here. Steeler fans have seen very vividly what major injuries on the line can do to their offense, so this position becomes a powerful possibility. Gilles' would seem to be a great fit, but his stock is dropping rapidly. Davin Joseph or Charles Spencer could be surprise picks here.

C - Mangold was a trendy pick by many (including me), but I no longer think this will happen. Hartings is evidently close to a restructured deal, and they just extended backup Chukky Okobi at about $2.5 million per and told his agent that he is the future of the position. That kind of commitment from a franchise known to be straight shooters makes a C pick very unlikely, despite Mangold's potential.

DL - Maybe, but I don't know that there's a good fit here. Most collegiate DEs project as OLBs in Pittsburgh's 3-4. mario Williams and MAYBE Tamba Hali are the only two first-round DEs that have the size to play it in the 3-4, but they'll both be gone by the time Pittsburgh picks. It looks like von Oelhoffen may sign with the Jets, and the Steelers are pushing hard to retain Brett Keisel, so it looks like he may be the starter along side Hampton and Smith. Still, some depth here beyond Kirschke and Hoke would be nice, but I think it's a consideration for later rounds. A DT who might project as a DE in this system is Rodrique Wright - he has the size to play the spot, and a relative lack of foot speed isn't a huge deal in this system (how fleet is Kimo, after all?) I don't see Gabe Watson here if he's still around, as he's a NT and they already have a Pro Bowler in Hampton and a capable backup in Hoke.

LB - Not likely, but the depth at this position may force them to go here if the BPA on their board is an LB. On the outside, they have Porter and Hagggans starting, a starter caliber (possibly even star caliber) backup in James Harrison, and a promising youngster in Andre Frazier. On the inside, Farrior and Foote are great and solid respectively, and Kriewaldt just re-signed to provide depth, along with 2nd year guy Rian Wallace, on whom its too early to pass judgment. However, the value at this pick is likely to be on the outside, with a guy like Carpenter, Howard, or Lawson possibly falling here, not on the inside. I think they only go here if a talent falls who is simply too good to pass up.

DB - Here's a possibility, but not as strong as some other positions. At CB, Taylor and McFadden look to be the starters, with 2nd round pick Ricardo Colclough as the backup. With Townsend and Williams likely gone, their depth is lacking, so a CB is possible if a talent lands at #32. At safety, it appears they're prepared to let Hope walk, but Logan will be re-signed to avoid a grievance, Tyrone Carter is still there, and they're currently talking to Ryan Clark of Washington, so it seems to me that they're attacking this spot in free agency rather than the draft. Guys like Darnell Bing, Ko Simpson, Donte Whitner, or Daniel Bullocks may be on the board, but I think if they draft a S, it will be in a leter round for a guy like Jason Allen or Pat Watkins, who are potentially very good cover safeties to pair with Polamalu.

Any other Steeler fans want to chime in on this assessment?

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

I'll chime in with the SD chargers at 19.

One of three positions:

#1 -Best Oline man available. Winston,Scott, McNeil.

#2 - Secondary Help - I figure that Jimmy Williams and Huff will be gone by 19, which I think will lead SD to pick Oline. Maybe Hill or Cromartie.

#3 - WR - I dont think this is a need pick unlike alot of others, but Chad Jackson or Santonio Holmes wouldn't be a horrible pick.

AJ has had a history of taking his oline late in the draft while drafting the more skilled positions early on.

Best case:

Jimmy Williams or Huff fall to19.

 

[Frenchy Fuqua]

Thanks for the kind words, Bob.

For the Steelers, here is how i see it, position by position...

QB - No chance. Re-signing Batch to be the #2 today. I fully expect they'll draft a QB, but not in round 1, obviously. With Maddox gone, they'll need a #3, and I could easily see a second day pick (compensatory?) going to a developmental QB.

RB - Possibility, but unlikely. I disagree firmly with the myriad posters that have been saying : "They know Parker isn't the answer." Hogwash. I think they're firmly behind Parker as their lead back - what more does the guy need to do? He started one game at the end of the '04 season and gained over 100 against Buffalo. Early this season, when Duce and Bettis were hurt, he was averaging something like 120 ypg, getting the full load of carries. He may be the fastest back in the league, and he has very little mileage on him. However, the Steeler offense begs for a power back that can grind out yards late in games when they have a lead and are working the clock. Duce Staley is going to be that guy this year, but we all know his injury history, which is why RB becomes a possibility. However, I think the only way it happens is if big value falls to them. They're not going to reach for a guy like Addai here - if LenDale White falls, however.... all bets are off. This is very unlikely, obviously, but he's a perfect back for their system and would represent a huge value here.

WR - This is where I think they might go. This isn't an outstanding WR class, which would appear to be a negative, but picking at #32, what it does is give them a crack at all the receivers in the draft, save for maybe 2. As maligned as this class is, the odds are that someone will be the breakout guy, and looking at WR3, it gives the Steelers more upside potential with this pick than any other position. Assuming Holmes and Jackson are gone here, does Sinorice Moss make sense (assuming Tampa doesn't grab him at #23)? Maybe. While the traditional thought process has a big receiver slotting in with Wilson and Ward, I think what they need more than anything is a vertical threat. Guys like, oh, I don't know... Sinorice's BROTHER and Steve Smith have dispelled the notion that size is imperative to being a big-time vertical threat. Sinorice Moss might make perfect sense here, another WR would be a reach, and I don't know if they want to wait until pick 64 and hope that a Martin Nance or Maurice Stovall is still around.

TE - No chance. Miller last year - enough said.

OT - You never know. Are they 100% sold on Max Starks as the RT going forward? Are they satisfied with Trai Essex as the primary backup? The Steeler offense derives its success from the line and the value at OT is likely to be there at #32. McNeill, Whitworth, Scott, Winston - these are guys with upside that could be around at #32. It may not be a "need" spot, but when you're the defending champs, you have the luxury of drafting the best available player, not just addressing need. It could happen.

OG - See OT, this could be even more likely. If Faneca gets hurt, they are in big trouble. Simmons has a history of injury. Their main backup here is Chris Kemoeatu, who has never taken a regular season snap, depsite the potential he has, the Steelers are thin here. Steeler fans have seen very vividly what major injuries on the line can do to their offense, so this position becomes a powerful possibility. Gilles' would seem to be a great fit, but his stock is dropping rapidly. Davin Joseph or Charles Spencer could be surprise picks here.

C - Mangold was a trendy pick by many (including me), but I no longer think this will happen. Hartings is evidently close to a restructured deal, and they just extended backup Chukky Okobi at about $2.5 million per and told his agent that he is the future of the position. That kind of commitment from a franchise known to be straight shooters makes a C pick very unlikely, despite Mangold's potential.

DL - Maybe, but I don't know that there's a good fit here. Most collegiate DEs project as OLBs in Pittsburgh's 3-4. mario Williams and MAYBE Tamba Hali are the only two first-round DEs that have the size to play it in the 3-4, but they'll both be gone by the time Pittsburgh picks. It looks like von Oelhoffen may sign with the Jets, and the Steelers are pushing hard to retain Brett Keisel, so it looks like he may be the starter along side Hampton and Smith. Still, some depth here beyond Kirschke and Hoke would be nice, but I think it's a consideration for later rounds. A DT who might project as a DE in this system is Rodrique Wright - he has the size to play the spot, and a relative lack of foot speed isn't a huge deal in this system (how fleet is Kimo, after all?) I don't see Gabe Watson here if he's still around, as he's a NT and they already have a Pro Bowler in Hampton and a capable backup in Hoke.

LB - Not likely, but the depth at this position may force them to go here if the BPA on their board is an LB. On the outside, they have Porter and Hagggans starting, a starter caliber (possibly even star caliber) backup in James Harrison, and a promising youngster in Andre Frazier. On the inside, Farrior and Foote are great and solid respectively, and Kriewaldt just re-signed to provide depth, along with 2nd year guy Rian Wallace, on whom its too early to pass judgment. However, the value at this pick is likely to be on the outside, with a guy like Carpenter, Howard, or Lawson possibly falling here, not on the inside. I think they only go here if a talent falls who is simply too good to pass up.

DB - Here's a possibility, but not as strong as some other positions. At CB, Taylor and McFadden look to be the starters, with 2nd round pick Ricardo Colclough as the backup. With Townsend and Williams likely gone, their depth is lacking, so a CB is possible if a talent lands at #32. At safety, it appears they're prepared to let Hope walk, but Logan will be re-signed to avoid a grievance, Tyrone Carter is still there, and they're currently talking to Ryan Clark of Washington, so it seems to me that they're attacking this spot in free agency rather than the draft. Guys like Darnell Bing, Ko Simpson, Donte Whitner, or Daniel Bullocks may be on the board, but I think if they draft a S, it will be in a leter round for a guy like Jason Allen or Pat Watkins, who are potentially very good cover safeties to pair with Polamalu.

Any other Steeler fans want to chime in on this assessment?

Grin hit it. The Steelers shouldn't have any glaring needs if they can sign a safety and Keisel in free agency. We'll find out what the Steelers really think of Starks, Essex and Kemoeatu. Good value should be there at 32 on the OL. The Steelers biggest need will likely be WR. Although if Holmes and CJ are gone is Moss a good value pick at 32? I wouldn't rule out a trade up a few spots if Holmes or CJ is on the board at 25 or so. The Steelers should be getting 3 compensatory picks in the next week or so. That will be nice ammo.We'll have a clearer picture of the Steelers draft needs after free agency dies down but I think the Steelers are in good position to draft the best availble players early in the draft.

 

[Bojang0301]

Anyone could drop. Right now the scenarios are endless. Perhaps you have the Jets or Oakland take a QB and San Fran take Vernon Davis. I just don't know anything could shake up this top 10.

I was going through Top 10 scenarios yesterday and played it out different ways:

1) Reggie Bush

2) Matt Leinhart

3) Vince Young

4) DBrick/Cutler

5) AJ Hawk/Mario Williams

6) Vernon Davis/Hawk/Williams

7) Cutler/Williams/Hawk

8) Ngata/Justice

9) Huff/Williams/Davis/Justice

10) Justice/Huff/Davis

A lot of possible scenarios for teams with a lot of need right now. But Free Agency is still young. I doubt Mario Williams drops to 9 but there are scenarios that it would happen in. Actually same goes for Hawk droping but if the Saints sign a QB then things are shaken up again. I just wouldn't predict anything until free agency slows down.

 

[Bojang0301]

Thanks for the kind words, Bob.

For the Steelers, here is how i see it, position by position...

QB - No chance.  Re-signing Batch to be the #2 today.  I fully expect they'll draft a QB, but not in round 1, obviously.  With Maddox gone, they'll need a #3, and I could easily see a second day pick (compensatory?) going to a developmental QB.

RB - Possibility, but unlikely.  I disagree firmly with the myriad posters that have been saying : "They know Parker isn't the answer."  Hogwash.  I think they're firmly behind Parker as their lead back - what more does the guy need to do?  He started one game at the end of the '04 season and gained over 100 against Buffalo.  Early this season, when Duce and Bettis were hurt, he was averaging something like 120 ypg, getting the full load of carries.  He may be the fastest back in the league, and he has very little mileage on him.  However, the Steeler offense begs for a power back that can grind out yards late in games when they have a lead and are working the clock.  Duce Staley is going to be that guy this year, but we all know his injury history, which is why RB becomes a possibility.  However, I think the only way it happens is if big value falls to them.  They're not going to reach for a guy like Addai here - if LenDale White falls, however.... all bets are off.  This is very unlikely, obviously, but he's a perfect back for their system and would represent a huge value here.

WR - This is where I think they might go.  This isn't an outstanding WR class, which would appear to be a negative, but picking at #32, what it does is give them a crack at all the receivers in the draft, save for maybe 2.  As maligned as this class is, the odds are that someone will be the breakout guy, and looking at WR3, it gives the Steelers more upside potential with this pick than any other position.  Assuming Holmes and Jackson are gone here, does Sinorice Moss make sense (assuming Tampa doesn't grab him at #23)?  Maybe.  While the traditional thought process has a big receiver slotting in with Wilson and Ward, I think what they need more than anything is a vertical threat.  Guys like, oh, I don't know... Sinorice's BROTHER and Steve Smith have dispelled the notion that size is imperative to being a big-time vertical threat.  Sinorice Moss might make perfect sense here, another WR would be a reach, and I don't know if they want to wait until pick 64 and hope that a Martin Nance or Maurice Stovall is still around.

TE - No chance.  Miller last year - enough said.

OT - You never know.  Are they 100% sold on Max Starks as the RT going forward?  Are they satisfied with Trai Essex as the primary backup?  The Steeler offense derives its success from the line and the value at OT is likely to be there at #32.  McNeill, Whitworth, Scott, Winston - these are guys with upside that could be around at #32.  It may not be a "need" spot, but when you're the defending champs, you have the luxury of drafting the best available player, not just addressing need.  It could happen.

OG - See OT, this could be even more likely.  If Faneca gets hurt, they are in big trouble.  Simmons has a history of injury.  Their main backup here is Chris Kemoeatu, who has never taken a regular season snap, depsite the potential he has, the Steelers are thin here.  Steeler fans have seen very vividly what major injuries on the line can do to their offense, so this position becomes a powerful possibility.  Gilles' would seem to be a great fit, but his stock is dropping rapidly.  Davin Joseph or Charles Spencer could be surprise picks here.

C - Mangold was a trendy pick by many (including me), but I no longer think this will happen.  Hartings is evidently close to a restructured deal, and they just extended backup Chukky Okobi at about $2.5 million per and told his agent that he is the future of the position.  That kind of commitment from a franchise known to be straight shooters makes a C pick very unlikely, despite Mangold's potential.

DL - Maybe, but I don't know that there's a good fit here.  Most collegiate DEs project as OLBs in Pittsburgh's 3-4.  mario Williams and MAYBE Tamba Hali are the only two first-round DEs that have the size to play it in the 3-4, but they'll both be gone by the time Pittsburgh picks.  It looks like von Oelhoffen may sign with the Jets, and the Steelers are pushing hard to retain Brett Keisel, so it looks like he may be the starter along side Hampton and Smith.  Still, some depth here beyond Kirschke and Hoke would be nice, but I think it's a consideration for later rounds.  A DT who might project as a DE in this system is Rodrique Wright - he has the size to play the spot, and a relative lack of foot speed isn't a huge deal in this system (how fleet is Kimo, after all?)  I don't see Gabe Watson here if he's still around, as he's a NT and they already have a Pro Bowler in Hampton and a capable backup in Hoke.

LB - Not likely, but the depth at this position may force them to go here if the BPA on their board is an LB.  On the outside, they have Porter and Hagggans starting, a starter caliber (possibly even star caliber) backup in James Harrison, and a promising youngster in Andre Frazier.  On the inside, Farrior and Foote are great and solid respectively, and Kriewaldt just re-signed to provide depth, along with 2nd year guy Rian Wallace, on whom its too early to pass judgment.  However, the value at this pick is likely to be on the outside, with a guy like Carpenter, Howard, or Lawson possibly falling here, not on the inside.  I think they only go here if a talent falls who is simply too good to pass up.

DB - Here's a possibility, but not as strong as some other positions.  At CB, Taylor and McFadden look to be the starters, with 2nd round pick Ricardo Colclough as the backup.  With Townsend and Williams likely gone, their depth is lacking, so a CB is possible if a talent lands at #32.  At safety, it appears they're prepared to let Hope walk, but Logan will be re-signed to avoid a grievance, Tyrone Carter is still there, and they're currently talking to Ryan Clark of Washington, so it seems to me that they're attacking this spot in free agency rather than the draft.  Guys like Darnell Bing, Ko Simpson, Donte Whitner, or Daniel Bullocks may be on the board, but I think if they draft a S, it will be in a leter round for a guy like Jason Allen or Pat Watkins, who are potentially very good cover safeties to pair with Polamalu.

Any other Steeler fans want to chime in on this assessment?

Grin hit it. The Steelers shouldn't have any glaring needs if they can sign a safety and Keisel in free agency. We'll find out what the Steelers really think of Starks, Essex and Kemoeatu. Good value should be there at 32 on the OL. The Steelers biggest need will likely be WR. Although if Holmes and CJ are gone is Moss a good value pick at 32? I wouldn't rule out a trade up a few spots if Holmes or CJ is on the board at 25 or so. The Steelers should be getting 3 compensatory picks in the next week or so. That will be nice ammo.We'll have a clearer picture of the Steelers draft needs after free agency dies down but I think the Steelers are in good position to draft the best availble players early in the draft.

Hell, Lendale White could slip at this point. I mean seriously what team is out there needing a RB right now.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Vikings at #17.

They apparently think they've got their guy in Chester Taylor. I think that precludes taking Laurence Maroney or DeAngelo Williams. I wish I were wrong as I don't think Taylor's the guy.

Their d-line is taken care of with Kevin and Pat Williams at DT, and Udeze/James/Scott at D-end.

They just signed Willie Offord to play SS and Sharper is coming off a Pro-Bowl year at FS. Antoine Winfield is one corner and Smoot has a bounce-back year at the other.

That leaves the possibilities being o-line and linebacker. Both of which are areas of big-time need.

If they get Hutchinson, they have one of the best LT/LG/C combos in the league with McKinnie/Hutch/Birk. Unfortunately, they have one of the worst on the right. It sounds like they're going to lose Fonoti and the remaining crew of Liewinski/Rosenthal/Johnson aren't scaring anyone, although Marcus Johnson showed flashes. They signed Jason Whittle, but is he starter material?

I think the most likely answer now, considering the moves the Vikings have made is to draft Max Jean-Gilles. He's a monster at guard and, if picked would give the Vikings a tremendous upgrade at the two guard spots this year. Other options are obviously Davin Joseph or Charles Spencer. But I think MJG has the potential to dominate. Then move Marcus Johnson to RT and things are looking pretty good.

As to linebacker, they're instituting the Tampa 2 so coverage linebackers are at a premium. Unfortunately, the current crop of Viking LBs completely suck. Ben Leber? I know nothing about him. I do know that at #17 names like Ernie Sims and Bobby Carpenter should be available for OLB. I'm still learning about this style of play, so I can't say much else.

 

[Rovers]

I'll see if I can throw something together for the Jets, but it's pretty hard to read what direction the new regime goes in.

As for the Rams, I just made the first round pick for them in a mock (no trades). looking D all the way, as expected, guys like Huff and Hawk were gone, as well as V Davis. I think Linehan might be tempted to go with Lawson, and I pulled the trigger. His ability to pass rush, and to drop into coverage , and even line up as a DE in the 4-3 offers Linehan the abilty to run hybrid D schemes, either having him up or down. He lacks size for a DE (240) but his speed makes him very dangerous on passing downs. With a need at both LB and DE, he sort of solves both needs.

The other options I had was Ty Hill and Jimmy Williams. I think they can get one of those holes filled in round 2. They are saying Witherspoon will stay in the middle, so I went forward based on that, even though it's clear he's better on the outside.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

Great Job Grin - I won't repost your entire post in this reply -

I missed the news about Okobi and I agree with your take on it. Still that's too bad, I thought Mangold was a terrific fit.

I agree that guard or tackle is a definite possibility and that we can rule LB and DE out - at DE I am liking Dvoracek in the second right now...

I like that you mentioned Jason Allen. He won't last til our pick in the 2nd, and he may not last to our pick in the first. He has replaced Mangold at the top of my board for the stillers.

 

[Ridgelake]

A few thoughts on Dallas.....

QB: Bledsoe, Romo, Henson or late round draft pick. If Henson bombs in Europe, then a 3rd QB may be drafted late.

RB: JJ, Barber, Thompson.

FB: Sowell (FA), or Polite, or a second day draft pick. Dallas probably only keeps 1 FB.

WR: Keyshawn, Glenn, Crayton, Copper are pretty much locks. The fifth guy could be a draft pick (not first round) or a moderately priced FA.

They are strongly mentioned in the TO "sweepstakes". I suppose its not unlikely. Parcells has stated that as long as the guy is with him on Sunday, he's ok with them. I don't think anyone has ever questioned TO's committment on Sundays.

There is talk that if Dallas signs TO, they will cut Keyshawn. I doubt it. When was the last time Parcells threw one of his own under the bus?

TE: Witten, Pierce are locks. I could Dallas drafting a TE in round 2 and latter. Probably 3rd or 4th round. Perhaps a Fasano from ND, or Klopfenstein from Colorado. Dallas likes running a 2 TE offense and they need more bodies here with Campbell signing with NO.

LT: Flozell Adams, Jason Fabini (FA). Fabini is likely to sign and will start at RT. If Flozell went down again, Fabini would likely move over to here and be the backup. I can't see how Tucker makes the team this year. But for some reason, I bet he does.

LG: Larry Allen, Kozier, Peterman. Allen may be a cap casualty. He has a ~$7.5 million cap figure for 2006. It needs to be restructured. Peterman is entering his 3rd year and its time to see if this 3rd round draft pick can play. More importantly, Dallas signed Kyle Kosier from Detroit to a 5 year, ~$15 mil contract. Kosier is a versatile player able to play either guard or tackle spot. He is a good backup and is getting starters money. Does this force out Larry Allen? His bonus is scheduled for April 1. We will find out at month end. If cut, Dallas saves about $3.5 mil in cap room.

C: Johnson, Gurode. Dallas resigned Gurode to a 1 year deal. He can play either center or guard.

RG: Rivera, Gurode, Kozier. Before FA, I expected Dallas to take a guard in round 2nd/3rd of the draft. That still could happen, but it seems less likely with the signing of Kosier.

RT: Jason Fabini (FA), Rob Petitti, Marc Columbo, Jacob Rogers, draft pick. As mentioned, Fabini will likely be signed to play RT. He was originally a Parcells' draftee with the Jets. Petitti and Columbo (former Bears 1st rounder) are developmental guys already on the roster. Jacob Rogers was Dallas' 2nd round pick 2 years ago. He was waived/injured last training camp after he elected for season ending surgury against the wishes of Parcells and Jones. He cleared waivers and so his rights revert back to Dallas. Since he is already on cap for ~$800K, he will get a shot to play again. He had to show some talent to get drafted in the 2nd, right? He was winning the RT spot last year before his surgury. He might surprise, but I wouldn't count on it. If Fabini or another vet is not signed, I can see Dallas spending a first day draft pick on a tackle. I hesitate to say first rounder, given Parcells' dislike for first round tackles and Dallas' history of going defense in the first round, but if value drops, they might pull the trigger. Certainly a tackle at #49 is not unlikely.

K: Vinatieri (FA), Suisham. Jerry Jones has publicly stated that they want a veteran kicker. But they don't want to spend major bucks. Well, Vinatieri and Vanderjerk are the only top end vets available. I don't see Vanderjerk and BP getting along. Vinatieri was originally signed by Parcells. So I hope Jerry opens his check book and gives AV his $2.5mil per and goes about worrying about other positions. Suisham is the encumbent.

LDE: Spears, Coleman/Ratliff. Same combo as last year.

NT: Ferguson, Thomas Johnson: Dallas cut Glover leaving the 30+ year old Ferguson and the under 300 pound converted DE Johnson at NT. Johnson is more of a nickle pass rush DT, not a pure NT. If Fergie went down, Dallas would have a big hole in the middle of their 3-4. Assuming they don't sign a FA, Dallas will need to draft a NT. Perhaps a guy like Dvoracek (sp) from Oklahoma. Gabe Watson is a potential first rounder if the OLBs are gone. Dallas interviewed him extensively at the Senior Bowl. But questions remain about his motor.

RDE: Canty, Ellis. Same combo as last year. Ellis, has stated that he doesn't think he will be back next year. He is more suited for a 4-3. It would not surprise that he is traded to a team like Denver looking to win now. However, Dallas has stated that it wants to retain Ellis and that it wants to expand his role next year. We'll see. Overall, not a likely draft spot.

LOLB: Carpenter/Lawson/Burnett. As I have discussed ad naseum in other threads, I expect Dallas to draft an OLB at pick 18. Manny Lawson and Bobby Carpenter are the most likely picks. If they don't take one in round 1, round 2 is likely with guys like Wimbley and Anderson. Al Singleton is still on the roster and may be retained. But he is coming off injury and is small for a 3-4. I expect him to be cut for salary cap purposes. It would also not surprise if Willie McGinnest is signed for a year or two to help teach the young guys how its done.

ILB: James, Ayodele, Burnett, Fowler, Shanle. Ayodele was just signed from Jax and has been slotted at ILB. He is a former college DE and is known as a toughnosed hard hitter. I can see him fitting into a Vrabel type roll with Dallas sending pressure from the ILB spot, something that they have not done much historically. On the other side, James really emerged as a leader last year. Burnett was a 2nd rounder last year and struggled at OLB, particularly early. Parcells said that he would likely end up at ILB. Burnett is likely to be a backup for all of the linebacker spots. Now, he is coming off an ACL tear late in the season and likely won't be available until training camp. Fowler (run stuffer) and Shanle (nickle guy) are reasonable backups and good special teams guys. I don't expect Dallas to draft an ILB after the Ayodele signing.

ROLB: Ware, Kalen Thorton. Everybody knows about Ware. Thorton spent last season on IR with a knee. He made the team in 2004 as a nickle passrusher. He is a ~250 pound former DE who was competing with Ware before blowing out the knee in camp. He's back this year and should be an adequate backup. Ogbogu is another guy on last year's roster who could play here. He will likely be released.

CB: Newman, Henry, Glenn, Reeves. Very good depth here. Not a likely draft spot.

SS: Roy Williams, Justin Beriault. Beriault was a rookie 6th rounder last year who tore up training camp. He made a big impression. He is definitely a strong safety, though, not a free safety. He played "in the box" for much of his college career. He spent 2005 on IR after having microfracture surgury on his knee. Should be back in 2006 as a special teamer and backup to Roy.

FS: Keith Davis, Willie Pile. Many have speculated that this spot will be "upgraded" in 2006. Dallas gave up many long passes, with this spot being the primary blame. There were stretches, however, where these two played pretty well. Given the needs at other spots (Oline, LB, K, and NT), I would not be surprised if Dallas did not "upgrade" this spot. That's not to say that Dallas won't go after a FA like Chris Hope, or draft a guy like Pat Watkins in the second. But given the other needs and stretches of solid play, I'm not as conviced as I once was that they address this spot for next year. I'd rate this as a possible draft spot in any round but the first.

Looking at the team that played in 2005, the most glaring need is an upgrade to the tackle spot. This spot "held the team hostage" last year. Meaning they substantially had to alter their game planning around these spots. Dallas had to keep in TEs, use max-protect schemes, slide guards outside. Despite these moves, teams buried Dallas' offense late in the season. In the entire NFL, the two offensive linemen who gave up the most sacks last year were Rob Petitti and Torrin Tucker. Dallas' starting tackles at year end. Now, Dallas gets back multi-time pro bowler Flozell Adams at LT. And I expect Dallas to pick up Jason Fabini in free agency. I also expect at least one offensive lineman to be drafted on Day 1. Fixing this spot is the most critical offseason move that Dallas must make.

But for draft picks, I see:

1 (18) Manny Lawson or Bobby Carpenter. Possibly Gabe Watson.

2 (49) OT, NT, OLB, S, TE. Whitworth, Dvoracek, Anderson/Wimbley, many safeties, many TEs.

3rd: Same list as second round for positions.

 

[Kevin Ashcraft]

Let me take a stab @ KC @ 1.20

I see these positions as positiosn of HIGH NEED

WR-If we land Owens then its not a viable pick for rd. 1, but I would still like to see an additional WR taken in rounds 4 or 5. We have Kennison, Parker, Hall and Horn, but we have no idea if C. Thorpe will pan out....if Thorpe shows improvement, the need for a WR is diminished greatly.

OT-Roaf has maybe 2 years left, I think more that this is it for him. John Welbourn is a natural G and will slot in there when SHields retires. The true OT's on this team now do not look promising....Jordan Black, Jeremy Parquet, Kevin Sampson and Will Svitek are not what I would call a great bunch of T's. After WR this is the biggest need on offense. And I would prefer it be a T who is versatile enough to play both positions.

DT-If they sign Rocky Benrard, thats a huge upgrade over Junior Siavii, RYan Sims, John Browning and if re-signed, Lionel Dalton. Lots of high picks there in Sims and Siavii but nothing but unfulfilled promise. If Broderick Bunkley is on the board @ 1.20 I think he would be my top pick of the DTs

OLB-WIth Shawn Barber's release, and the unkown surrounding Keyaron Fox's return from an ACL injury, I could see us needing OLB help. DC Cunningham has said he would like to play more 3-4 this year and unless Fox really gets back, playing a 3-4 is somewhat limited as Kris Griffin is now our best backup. Our other LBs are set, with D. Johnson, Mitchell and Bell. Bell will now have an entire offseason to get healthy and hopefully contribute more in '06. SOme mocks have Greenway falling down to 20, and if he is there that would be a nice fit.

CB-After Patrick Surtain-its now a skeleton crew of Julian Battle, Benny Sapp and Alphonso Hodge. Signing Law would alleviate this need, but if he isnt signed a CB like Youboty could be the pick here. In fact, if Law is not signed, I would think this is the biggest area of need.

S-Last season most KC homers had a dream pick and that was Derrick Johnson, and he fell all the way to 15. This year if we could get Michael Huff that would be the "dream pick" it has a 1% chance of happening, but our safeties are old and slow, even Sammy Knight looked old last season. After Huff there isnt a S worth the value, so maybe look for a Darnell Bing in round 2.

All that being said, @ 1.20 here is who would be on my top 5 list, excluding Huff, who wont be there but would be the pick of all picks.

Assuming we sign Owens and Law:

1. Eric Winston

2. Chad Greenway

3. Broderick Bunkley

4. Ashton Youboty

5. Tamba Hali

Assuming we sign Owens and not Law

1. Youboty

2. Winston

3. Greenway

4. Bunkley

5. Hali

Assuming we get Law and not Owens

1. Chad Jackon

2. Winston

3. Greenway

4. Youboty

5. Hali

 

[-OZ-]

Let me take a stab @ KC @ 1.20

I see these positions as positiosn of HIGH NEED

WR-If we land Owens then its not a viable pick for rd. 1, but I would still like to see an additional WR taken in rounds 4 or 5. We have Kennison, Parker, Hall and Horn, but we have no idea if C. Thorpe will pan out....if Thorpe shows improvement, the need for a WR is diminished greatly.

OT-Roaf has maybe 2 years left, I think more that this is it for him. John Welbourn is a natural G and will slot in there when SHields retires. The true OT's on this team now do not look promising....Jordan Black, Jeremy Parquet, Kevin Sampson and Will Svitek are not what I would call a great bunch of T's. After WR this is the biggest need on offense. And I would prefer it be a T who is versatile enough to play both positions.

DT-If they sign Rocky Benrard, thats a huge upgrade over Junior Siavii, RYan Sims, John Browning and if re-signed, Lionel Dalton. Lots of high picks there in Sims and Siavii but nothing but unfulfilled promise. If Broderick Bunkley is on the board @ 1.20 I think he would be my top pick of the DTs

OLB-WIth Shawn Barber's release, and the unkown surrounding Keyaron Fox's return from an ACL injury, I could see us needing OLB help. DC Cunningham has said he would like to play more 3-4 this year and unless Fox really gets back, playing a 3-4 is somewhat limited as Kris Griffin is now our best backup. Our other LBs are set, with D. Johnson, Mitchell and Bell. Bell will now have an entire offseason to get healthy and hopefully contribute more in '06. SOme mocks have Greenway falling down to 20, and if he is there that would be a nice fit.

CB-After Patrick Surtain-its now a skeleton crew of Julian Battle, Benny Sapp and Alphonso Hodge. Signing Law would alleviate this need, but if he isnt signed a CB like Youboty could be the pick here. In fact, if Law is not signed, I would think this is the biggest area of need.

S-Last season most KC homers had a dream pick and that was Derrick Johnson, and he fell all the way to 15. This year if we could get Michael Huff that would be the "dream pick" it has a 1% chance of happening, but our safeties are old and slow, even Sammy Knight looked old last season. After Huff there isnt a S worth the value, so maybe look for a Darnell Bing in round 2.

All that being said, @ 1.20 here is who would be on my top 5 list, excluding Huff, who wont be there but would be the pick of all picks.

Assuming we sign Owens and Law:

1. Eric Winston

2. Chad Greenway

3. Broderick Bunkley

4. Ashton Youboty

5. Tamba Hali

Assuming we sign Owens and not Law

1. Youboty

2. Winston

3. Greenway

4. Bunkley

5. Hali

Assuming we get Law and not Owens

1. Chad Jackon

2. Winston

3. Greenway

4. Youboty

5. Hali

The only thing I'd add is KC needs a young backup RB.

I've mentioned him before, but I really like Wali Lundry as a 4th round pick. Or 5th if possible.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

S-Last season most KC homers had a dream pick and that was Derrick Johnson, and he fell all the way to 15. This year if we could get Michael Huff that would be the "dream pick" it has a 1% chance of happening, but our safeties are old and slow, even Sammy Knight looked old last season. After Huff there isnt a S worth the value, so maybe look for a Darnell Bing in round 2.

Don't let Bloom hear that. He would say that Jason Allen could be the top safety in the draft. He's likely the #2.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

S-Last season most KC homers had a dream pick and that was Derrick Johnson, and he fell all the way to 15.  This year if we could get Michael Huff that would be the "dream pick" it has a 1% chance of happening, but our safeties are old and slow, even Sammy Knight looked old last season.  After Huff there isnt a S worth the value, so maybe look for a Darnell Bing in round 2.

Don't let Bloom hear that. He would say that Jason Allen could be the top safety in the draft. He's likely the #2.

I also think Tye Hill would be a terrific pick if he falls that far.

 

[-OZ-]

S-Last season most KC homers had a dream pick and that was Derrick Johnson, and he fell all the way to 15. This year if we could get Michael Huff that would be the "dream pick" it has a 1% chance of happening, but our safeties are old and slow, even Sammy Knight looked old last season. After Huff there isnt a S worth the value, so maybe look for a Darnell Bing in round 2.

Don't let Bloom hear that. He would say that Jason Allen could be the top safety in the draft. He's likely the #2.

I also think Tye Hill would be a terrific pick if he falls that far.

He would be.

 

[Cookiemonster]

RB - Possibility, but unlikely.  I disagree firmly with the myriad posters that have been saying : "They know Parker isn't the answer."  Hogwash.  I think they're firmly behind Parker as their lead back -  They're not going to reach for a guy like Addai here - if LenDale White falls, however.... all bets are off.  This is very unlikely, obviously, but he's a perfect back for their system and would represent a huge value here.

Agree. I may have made it sound like I don't like Parker, I just don't like him at 20+ carrries. About 15 is perfect though w/ a big back to compliment him. I like what we have this year w/ Staley but have to agree with the LenDale remark.

WR -  'This isn't an outstanding WR class', I'll say Jackson in the same breath as White above.

OT - OG - C -  It may not be a "need" spot, but when you're the defending champs, you have the luxury of drafting the best available player, not just addressing need.  It could happen.

Deep draft makes me think great value at end of 2nd.

DL - Maybe, but I don't know that there's a good fit here.  mario Williams and MAYBE Tamba Hali are the only two first-round DEs that have the size to play it in the 3-4, but they'll both be gone by the time Pittsburgh picks.  I don't see Gabe Watson here if he's still around, as he's a NT and they already have a Pro Bowler in Hampton and a capable backup in Hoke.

I saw Watson as a DE after they shave 15-20 lbs.

LB - Not likely, but the depth at this position may force them to go here if the BPA on their board is an LB.    I think they only go here if a talent falls who is simply too good to pass up.

DEs/3-4 OLBs are very deep in this draft concidering how many teams will be looking in this direction. End of 2nd or 3rd may provide the best value here.

DB - Here's a possibility, but not as strong as some other positions.  Guys like Darnell Bing, Ko Simpson, Donte Whitner, or Daniel Bullocks may be on the board, but I think if they draft a S, it will be in a leter round for a guy like Jason Allen or Pat Watkins, who are potentially very good cover safeties to pair with Polamalu.

If White, Jackson or Lawson don't fall, DB is probably the place for the value pick at the end of the 1st, w/ OL being the top $ at the end of the 2nd. OLB value in the 3rd. Then they look DL, QB, WR in 2nd day. The need for a DB is developmental, but essential enough to make the 1st round for the Steelers. Too bad C.Woodson expects $6mil/yr, 'cause he'd make a great FS for $2-3/yr.

Any other Steeler fans want to chime in on this assessment?

 

[Bob Magaw]

Thanks for the kind words, Bob.

For the Steelers, here is how i see it, position by position...

QB - No chance. Re-signing Batch to be the #2 today. I fully expect they'll draft a QB, but not in round 1, obviously. With Maddox gone, they'll need a #3, and I could easily see a second day pick (compensatory?) going to a developmental QB.

RB - Possibility, but unlikely. I disagree firmly with the myriad posters that have been saying : "They know Parker isn't the answer." Hogwash. I think they're firmly behind Parker as their lead back - what more does the guy need to do? He started one game at the end of the '04 season and gained over 100 against Buffalo. Early this season, when Duce and Bettis were hurt, he was averaging something like 120 ypg, getting the full load of carries. He may be the fastest back in the league, and he has very little mileage on him. However, the Steeler offense begs for a power back that can grind out yards late in games when they have a lead and are working the clock. Duce Staley is going to be that guy this year, but we all know his injury history, which is why RB becomes a possibility. However, I think the only way it happens is if big value falls to them. They're not going to reach for a guy like Addai here - if LenDale White falls, however.... all bets are off. This is very unlikely, obviously, but he's a perfect back for their system and would represent a huge value here.

WR - This is where I think they might go. This isn't an outstanding WR class, which would appear to be a negative, but picking at #32, what it does is give them a crack at all the receivers in the draft, save for maybe 2. As maligned as this class is, the odds are that someone will be the breakout guy, and looking at WR3, it gives the Steelers more upside potential with this pick than any other position. Assuming Holmes and Jackson are gone here, does Sinorice Moss make sense (assuming Tampa doesn't grab him at #23)? Maybe. While the traditional thought process has a big receiver slotting in with Wilson and Ward, I think what they need more than anything is a vertical threat. Guys like, oh, I don't know... Sinorice's BROTHER and Steve Smith have dispelled the notion that size is imperative to being a big-time vertical threat. Sinorice Moss might make perfect sense here, another WR would be a reach, and I don't know if they want to wait until pick 64 and hope that a Martin Nance or Maurice Stovall is still around.

TE - No chance. Miller last year - enough said.

OT - You never know. Are they 100% sold on Max Starks as the RT going forward? Are they satisfied with Trai Essex as the primary backup? The Steeler offense derives its success from the line and the value at OT is likely to be there at #32. McNeill, Whitworth, Scott, Winston - these are guys with upside that could be around at #32. It may not be a "need" spot, but when you're the defending champs, you have the luxury of drafting the best available player, not just addressing need. It could happen.

OG - See OT, this could be even more likely. If Faneca gets hurt, they are in big trouble. Simmons has a history of injury. Their main backup here is Chris Kemoeatu, who has never taken a regular season snap, depsite the potential he has, the Steelers are thin here. Steeler fans have seen very vividly what major injuries on the line can do to their offense, so this position becomes a powerful possibility. Gilles' would seem to be a great fit, but his stock is dropping rapidly. Davin Joseph or Charles Spencer could be surprise picks here.

C - Mangold was a trendy pick by many (including me), but I no longer think this will happen. Hartings is evidently close to a restructured deal, and they just extended backup Chukky Okobi at about $2.5 million per and told his agent that he is the future of the position. That kind of commitment from a franchise known to be straight shooters makes a C pick very unlikely, despite Mangold's potential.

DL - Maybe, but I don't know that there's a good fit here. Most collegiate DEs project as OLBs in Pittsburgh's 3-4. mario Williams and MAYBE Tamba Hali are the only two first-round DEs that have the size to play it in the 3-4, but they'll both be gone by the time Pittsburgh picks. It looks like von Oelhoffen may sign with the Jets, and the Steelers are pushing hard to retain Brett Keisel, so it looks like he may be the starter along side Hampton and Smith. Still, some depth here beyond Kirschke and Hoke would be nice, but I think it's a consideration for later rounds. A DT who might project as a DE in this system is Rodrique Wright - he has the size to play the spot, and a relative lack of foot speed isn't a huge deal in this system (how fleet is Kimo, after all?) I don't see Gabe Watson here if he's still around, as he's a NT and they already have a Pro Bowler in Hampton and a capable backup in Hoke.

LB - Not likely, but the depth at this position may force them to go here if the BPA on their board is an LB. On the outside, they have Porter and Hagggans starting, a starter caliber (possibly even star caliber) backup in James Harrison, and a promising youngster in Andre Frazier. On the inside, Farrior and Foote are great and solid respectively, and Kriewaldt just re-signed to provide depth, along with 2nd year guy Rian Wallace, on whom its too early to pass judgment. However, the value at this pick is likely to be on the outside, with a guy like Carpenter, Howard, or Lawson possibly falling here, not on the inside. I think they only go here if a talent falls who is simply too good to pass up.

DB - Here's a possibility, but not as strong as some other positions. At CB, Taylor and McFadden look to be the starters, with 2nd round pick Ricardo Colclough as the backup. With Townsend and Williams likely gone, their depth is lacking, so a CB is possible if a talent lands at #32. At safety, it appears they're prepared to let Hope walk, but Logan will be re-signed to avoid a grievance, Tyrone Carter is still there, and they're currently talking to Ryan Clark of Washington, so it seems to me that they're attacking this spot in free agency rather than the draft. Guys like Darnell Bing, Ko Simpson, Donte Whitner, or Daniel Bullocks may be on the board, but I think if they draft a S, it will be in a leter round for a guy like Jason Allen or Pat Watkins, who are potentially very good cover safeties to pair with Polamalu.

Any other Steeler fans want to chime in on this assessment?

this was exactly the type of well thought out locally garnered insight i was hoping to prompt & elicit... thanx, EG... can't wait to see your next mock, as well as that of jason, colin, bloom, et al... keep up the good work...i don't have time to respond individually now, but than for all the excellent contributions to thread so far, & i'll be back to comment with my thoughts on individual teams tonite...

 

[ExaltedOne]

The Redskins will probably go with cornerback or linebacker depth with their 2nd rounder.

 

[redman]

The Redskins will probably go with cornerback or linebacker depth with their 2nd rounder.

Outside chance of o-lineman if they find somone they really like there.

 

[Barry Jive and The Uptown Five]

RB - Possibility, but unlikely.  I disagree firmly with the myriad posters that have been saying : "They know Parker isn't the answer."  Hogwash.  I think they're firmly behind Parker as their lead back -   They're not going to reach for a guy like Addai here - if LenDale White falls, however.... all bets are off.  This is very unlikely, obviously, but he's a perfect back for their system and would represent a huge value here.

Agree.  I may have made it sound like I don't like Parker, I just don't like him at 20+ carrries.  About 15 is perfect though w/ a big back to compliment him.  I like what we have this year w/ Staley but have to agree with the LenDale remark.

WR -  'This isn't an outstanding WR class', I'll say Jackson in the same breath as White above.

OT - OG - C -  It may not be a "need" spot, but when you're the defending champs, you have the luxury of drafting the best available player, not just addressing need.  It could happen.

Deep draft makes me think great value at end of 2nd.

DL - Maybe, but I don't know that there's a good fit here.  mario Williams and MAYBE Tamba Hali are the only two first-round DEs that have the size to play it in the 3-4, but they'll both be gone by the time Pittsburgh picks.  I don't see Gabe Watson here if he's still around, as he's a NT and they already have a Pro Bowler in Hampton and a capable backup in Hoke.

I saw Watson as a DE after they shave 15-20 lbs.

LB - Not likely, but the depth at this position may force them to go here if the BPA on their board is an LB.    I think they only go here if a talent falls who is simply too good to pass up.

DEs/3-4 OLBs are very deep in this draft concidering how many teams will be looking in this direction.  End of 2nd or 3rd may provide the best value here.

DB - Here's a possibility, but not as strong as some other positions.  Guys like Darnell Bing, Ko Simpson, Donte Whitner, or Daniel Bullocks may be on the board, but I think if they draft a S, it will be in a leter round for a guy like Jason Allen or Pat Watkins, who are potentially very good cover safeties to pair with Polamalu.

If White, Jackson or Lawson don't fall, DB is probably the place for the value pick at the end of the 1st, w/ OL being the top $ at the end of the 2nd.  OLB value in the 3rd. Then they look DL, QB, WR in 2nd day.  The need for a DB is developmental, but essential enough to make the 1st round for the Steelers.  Too bad C.Woodson expects $6mil/yr, 'cause he'd make a great FS for $2-3/yr.

Any other Steeler fans want to chime in on this assessment?

I pretty much agree with most of this. The one thing I want to add is that when reviewing the draft history of the Steelers, OLBs are not Day 1 picks. With the 3-4, the Steelers look for under-sized college DEs with good speed and convert them. But these guys are almost always Day 2 picks. The only notable exception was Alonzo Jackson (RD2 from FSU) and it is probably is a pick the War Room hasn't forgotten. Before that you have to go back to 1999 & Joey Porter.....

2005 - Goo Wallace RD5 (ILB)

2004 - Nathaniel Adibi RD5

2003 - Alonzo Jackson RD2

2002 - Larry Foote RD4 (ILB)

2001 - Kendrell Bell RD2 (ILB)

2001 - Rodney Bailey RD6

2001 - Roger Knight RD6

2000 - Clark Haggans RD5

1999 - Joey Porter RD3

My personal draft board for the Steelers would look something like this:

1. RB LenDale White

2. WR Chad Jackson

3. BPA OT - Winston / Scott / Whitworth / Justice / Colledge / Callahan

4. FS Jason Allen

And much like the Steelers did with Polamalu, if either White or Jackson start slipping into the 20's, look for the Stillers to move up to land one of those guys.

 

[Cookiemonster]

And much like the Steelers did with Polamalu, if either White or Jackson start slipping into the 20's, look for the Stillers to move up to land one of those guys.

Ssshhhhh. Don't tell our 'secret' plan.

 

[MSULions]

I think Huff becomes the Lions priority...or perhaps jimmy Williams. otoh, they may be in the running to trade up for Brick now too....those seem like the most likely scenarios for them - followed by going OL in the 2nd (and 3rd) rounds.

 

[trollmonger]

Ridgelake covered the Cowboys quite well. I won't go into the same level of detail here. Predicting draft picks before free agency is really just a stab in the dark but since we're at least partially through free agency, maybe something can be predicted with degree of accuracy.

First, I'll make a couple of FA predictions.

1. As much as I was opposed to this even a week ago and didn't think it would happen, I now think that there is a good chance that TO ends up in Dallas. Especially since KJ's release. Someone has to be signed. Glenn is good but injury prone, I like Crayton as WR3 and Copper as WR4 but would be very uncomfortable to see them move up to WR2 and WR3 respectively.

2. Whether it be Vinatieri, Vanderjagt or whoever, a veteran PK will be found. This position cost us too many games last year.

I expect they'll be a few other smaller FA signings as well but there won't be any star players. It would be mostly depth signings or guys to push/share a position with an existing player. Most likely positions are OL, blocking TE, QB if BP doesn't think Henson or Romo can be trusted as backup, DL, LB and FS.

This would leave RT, FS and LB as primary need positions to acquire via the draft. A young developmental WR (one thing Owens doesn't bring is youth) could also be a first day consideration.

I still think Ellis will get traded for a first day pick. Probably a 3rd.

I'm still a little surprised that Ayodele has been slotted at ILB but this leaves open the probability that OLB will be the pick at 1.18 (or a little later in a trade down scenario). Lawson or Carpenter would probably be the pick. I think OT will be a first day pick. It could be in the first but more likely in the 2nd or even the 3rd. I don't see FS being the first round pick but could be 2nd or 3rd.

WR and NT are the two positions that I don't see as immediate needs (assuming Owens is signed) but that I would like to get a young player to develop as the starters at these positions are getting older.

 

[Bob Magaw]

i'm now wondering if lawson will last until cowboys... i heard some whispers that rams might be looking at him as high as #11, but then i am sceptical STL has the personnel to play 3-4 much...

if he or carpenter fall in the cowboys laps, i agree they would be great fit... one of them & ware blitzing the QB from both edges could have nightmarish implications for nfc east OCs & QBs for years to come...

this direction looks even more locked in if they can fill some OL holes in FA...

& they are more likely to get an impact safety with later pick, than they would be able to get impact LB in round 2-3 if they opted to go DB first (not likely), so that piece of the DAL needs landscape aligns well & meshes with the repective positional strengths in the 2006 draft space...

 

[Evilgrin 72]

And much like the Steelers did with Polamalu, if either White or Jackson start slipping into the 20's, look for the Stillers to move up to land one of those guys.

Ssshhhhh. Don't tell our 'secret' plan.

I would imagine that such a move might be contingent on the compensatory pick(s) awarded by the league to offset the Burress/Bell signings last offseason.

 

[Ridgelake]

i'm now wondering if lawson will last until cowboys... i heard some whispers that rams might be looking at him as high as #11, but then i am sceptical STL has the personnel to play 3-4 much...

Bob,One of the things that I am hearing about Lawson is that he wants to play 4-3 DE, not 3-4 OLB. Now, i'm wondering how he thinks he's going to do that, because he only weighs 245-250. Teams want more than a situational passrusher with their first round pick. But whatever, I'd still think he'd play whatever he is told to play, particularly if he seems tailor made to be a 3-4 OLB.

I agree that it would not surprise to see him go before Dallas picks at 18. He had perhaps the most impressive combine workout besides those named Davis and Mario. You just don't find many 6-5 250 guys run 4.41 40s and have exceptional shuttle, 3-cone, and jump results as well.

That said, I'd expect Dallas to be happy with Carpenter, and probably Greenway or Wimbley as well.

 

[aardball44]

I think Huff becomes the Lions priority...or perhaps jimmy Williams. otoh, they may be in the running to trade up for Brick now too....those seem like the most likely scenarios for them - followed by going OL in the 2nd (and 3rd) rounds.

What are your thoughts on the Lions possibly focusing their attention on one of the Big Three QBs on the draft board, now that there are rumblings of discontent with Harrington?

 

[cstu]

I'll chime in with the SD chargers at 19.

One of three positions:

#1 -Best Oline man available. Winston,Scott, McNeil.

#2 - Secondary Help - I figure that Jimmy Williams and Huff will be gone by 19, which I think will lead SD to pick Oline. Maybe Hill or Cromartie.

#3 - WR - I dont think this is a need pick unlike alot of others, but Chad Jackson or Santonio Holmes wouldn't be a horrible pick.

AJ has had a history of taking his oline late in the draft while drafting the more skilled positions early on.

Best case:

Jimmy Williams or Huff fall to19.

I agree completely, though I'm going to throw Manny Lawson into the mix because he's a freak and Foley is getting up in age. 1. Huff - obviously would be a steal if he dropped, highly unlikely.

2. Jimmy Williams - seems to be dropping but would be a great pick for the Chargers.

Here's where it gets tricky...

3. Chad Jackson - I'm sold on his talent as a pro WR. He may need time to develop as an NFL WR but it isn't a problem since McCardell is still playing well. However, McCardell has only a year, maybe two, left and so far Vincent Jackson is all potential. It isn't a dire need for the Chargers but he looks like the BPA and could set them up for the future.

4. Manny Lawson - Looks to be a more athletic version of Demarcus Ware and is an ideal 3-4 OLB. Like Jackson, this would be a BPA pick not one based on need.

5. Jonathan Scott - the only tackle available at #19 besides Colledge who looks to be able to play LT in the NFL and is healthy. McNeill has back problems (not going to get better at 340lbs.) and Winston is too slow for LT and is coming back from an ACL. Scott's problem is lack of aggressiveness and if that's too big of a question mark, I wouldn't mind Colledge being drafted here.

6. Tye Hill - absolutely love his speed and covering ability but his playmaking ability is questionable having 0 INT's last year. Youboty would be a better pick in the 2nd round if he's available.

 

[GregR_2]

For the Houston Texans..... RB Reggie Bush, USC.

To anyone who hasn't already heard ad nauseum the pros and cons of this pick, I offer my heartfelt congratulations you came out of your coma.

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

I'll chime in with the SD chargers at 19.

One of three positions:

#1 -Best  Oline man available. Winston,Scott, McNeil.

#2 - Secondary Help - I figure that Jimmy Williams and Huff will be gone by 19, which I think will lead SD to pick Oline.  Maybe Hill or Cromartie.

#3 - WR - I dont think this is a need pick unlike alot of others, but Chad Jackson or Santonio Holmes wouldn't be a horrible pick. 

AJ has had a history of taking his oline late in the draft while drafting the more skilled positions early on.

Best case:

Jimmy Williams or Huff fall to19.

I agree completely, though I'm going to throw Manny Lawson into the mix because he's a freak and Foley is getting up in age. 1. Huff - obviously would be a steal if he dropped, highly unlikely.

2. Jimmy Williams - seems to be dropping but would be a great pick for the Chargers.

Here's where it gets tricky...

3. Chad Jackson - I'm sold on his talent as a pro WR. He may need time to develop as an NFL WR but it isn't a problem since McCardell is still playing well. However, McCardell has only a year, maybe two, left and so far Vincent Jackson is all potential. It isn't a dire need for the Chargers but he looks like the BPA and could set them up for the future.

4. Manny Lawson - Looks to be a more athletic version of Demarcus Ware and is an ideal 3-4 OLB. Like Jackson, this would be a BPA pick not one based on need.

5. Jonathan Scott - the only tackle available at #19 besides Colledge who looks to be able to play LT in the NFL and is healthy. McNeill has back problems (not going to get better at 340lbs.) and Winston is too slow for LT and is coming back from an ACL. Scott's problem is lack of aggressiveness and if that's too big of a question mark, I wouldn't mind Colledge being drafted here.

6. Tye Hill - absolutely love his speed and covering ability but his playmaking ability is questionable having 0 INT's last year. Youboty would be a better pick in the 2nd round if he's available.

Manny Lawson huh?Haven't seen him on the radar yet.

Sd does have good depth at LB right now, but if he is truely a freak, #1 I doubt he's there at 19 then, and 2 I think SD needs a player you can start/make an impact from day 1 .

 

[nightshift]

Thanks for the kind words, Bob.

For the Steelers, here is how i see it, position by position...

QB - No chance. Re-signing Batch to be the #2 today. I fully expect they'll draft a QB, but not in round 1, obviously. With Maddox gone, they'll need a #3, and I could easily see a second day pick (compensatory?) going to a developmental QB.

RB - Possibility, but unlikely. I disagree firmly with the myriad posters that have been saying : "They know Parker isn't the answer." Hogwash. I think they're firmly behind Parker as their lead back - what more does the guy need to do? He started one game at the end of the '04 season and gained over 100 against Buffalo. Early this season, when Duce and Bettis were hurt, he was averaging something like 120 ypg, getting the full load of carries. He may be the fastest back in the league, and he has very little mileage on him. However, the Steeler offense begs for a power back that can grind out yards late in games when they have a lead and are working the clock. Duce Staley is going to be that guy this year, but we all know his injury history, which is why RB becomes a possibility. However, I think the only way it happens is if big value falls to them. They're not going to reach for a guy like Addai here - if LenDale White falls, however.... all bets are off. This is very unlikely, obviously, but he's a perfect back for their system and would represent a huge value here.

WR - This is where I think they might go. This isn't an outstanding WR class, which would appear to be a negative, but picking at #32, what it does is give them a crack at all the receivers in the draft, save for maybe 2. As maligned as this class is, the odds are that someone will be the breakout guy, and looking at WR3, it gives the Steelers more upside potential with this pick than any other position. Assuming Holmes and Jackson are gone here, does Sinorice Moss make sense (assuming Tampa doesn't grab him at #23)? Maybe. While the traditional thought process has a big receiver slotting in with Wilson and Ward, I think what they need more than anything is a vertical threat. Guys like, oh, I don't know... Sinorice's BROTHER and Steve Smith have dispelled the notion that size is imperative to being a big-time vertical threat. Sinorice Moss might make perfect sense here, another WR would be a reach, and I don't know if they want to wait until pick 64 and hope that a Martin Nance or Maurice Stovall is still around.

TE - No chance. Miller last year - enough said.

OT - You never know. Are they 100% sold on Max Starks as the RT going forward? Are they satisfied with Trai Essex as the primary backup? The Steeler offense derives its success from the line and the value at OT is likely to be there at #32. McNeill, Whitworth, Scott, Winston - these are guys with upside that could be around at #32. It may not be a "need" spot, but when you're the defending champs, you have the luxury of drafting the best available player, not just addressing need. It could happen.

OG - See OT, this could be even more likely. If Faneca gets hurt, they are in big trouble. Simmons has a history of injury. Their main backup here is Chris Kemoeatu, who has never taken a regular season snap, depsite the potential he has, the Steelers are thin here. Steeler fans have seen very vividly what major injuries on the line can do to their offense, so this position becomes a powerful possibility. Gilles' would seem to be a great fit, but his stock is dropping rapidly. Davin Joseph or Charles Spencer could be surprise picks here.

C - Mangold was a trendy pick by many (including me), but I no longer think this will happen. Hartings is evidently close to a restructured deal, and they just extended backup Chukky Okobi at about $2.5 million per and told his agent that he is the future of the position. That kind of commitment from a franchise known to be straight shooters makes a C pick very unlikely, despite Mangold's potential.

DL - Maybe, but I don't know that there's a good fit here. Most collegiate DEs project as OLBs in Pittsburgh's 3-4. mario Williams and MAYBE Tamba Hali are the only two first-round DEs that have the size to play it in the 3-4, but they'll both be gone by the time Pittsburgh picks. It looks like von Oelhoffen may sign with the Jets, and the Steelers are pushing hard to retain Brett Keisel, so it looks like he may be the starter along side Hampton and Smith. Still, some depth here beyond Kirschke and Hoke would be nice, but I think it's a consideration for later rounds. A DT who might project as a DE in this system is Rodrique Wright - he has the size to play the spot, and a relative lack of foot speed isn't a huge deal in this system (how fleet is Kimo, after all?) I don't see Gabe Watson here if he's still around, as he's a NT and they already have a Pro Bowler in Hampton and a capable backup in Hoke.

LB - Not likely, but the depth at this position may force them to go here if the BPA on their board is an LB. On the outside, they have Porter and Hagggans starting, a starter caliber (possibly even star caliber) backup in James Harrison, and a promising youngster in Andre Frazier. On the inside, Farrior and Foote are great and solid respectively, and Kriewaldt just re-signed to provide depth, along with 2nd year guy Rian Wallace, on whom its too early to pass judgment. However, the value at this pick is likely to be on the outside, with a guy like Carpenter, Howard, or Lawson possibly falling here, not on the inside. I think they only go here if a talent falls who is simply too good to pass up.

DB - Here's a possibility, but not as strong as some other positions. At CB, Taylor and McFadden look to be the starters, with 2nd round pick Ricardo Colclough as the backup. With Townsend and Williams likely gone, their depth is lacking, so a CB is possible if a talent lands at #32. At safety, it appears they're prepared to let Hope walk, but Logan will be re-signed to avoid a grievance, Tyrone Carter is still there, and they're currently talking to Ryan Clark of Washington, so it seems to me that they're attacking this spot in free agency rather than the draft. Guys like Darnell Bing, Ko Simpson, Donte Whitner, or Daniel Bullocks may be on the board, but I think if they draft a S, it will be in a leter round for a guy like Jason Allen or Pat Watkins, who are potentially very good cover safeties to pair with Polamalu.

Any other Steeler fans want to chime in on this assessment?

Good job, EG.Since they do not have any glaring needs, I think they take the best player available in round one, regardless of position.

My "WTF was that" Steeler pick? Maurice Drew falls to them in round 2 & they grab him primarily as a return guy and RB. Great talent here.

They will be looking for DL, always on the hunt for OL, WR will be M. Robinson of PSU (ARE's replacement), and I'd like to see them grab a couple of Bloom's RB sleepers day 2 (Hey Bloom! Did ya email Cowher your list yet? ).

SIX in '06!

 

[Chaos Commish]

Winston is too slow for LT and is coming back from an ACL.

Winston was the fastest OT at the Combine and ran better for his Pro Day. He is significantly faster than Scott. He has great feet too. The "measureables" holding him back are short arms and some technique issues. He's a good candidate for LT.

 

[Bob Magaw]

feel free to chime in... i'll listen to compelling reasons that may be to the contrary of my own rationale...

for the #1 pick to the texans, i'm going with reggie bush... i understand why there is a school of thought that for a team with multiple holes, that could recommend trading down & amassing additional picks... & there is a lot of depth in rounds 2-3 (& beyond) where they could stockpile much needed starting caliber players & depth in places like OL & defense... not to mention they have a pretty good RB in dom davis already...

so why bush?

keep in mind we are talking about the draft here, so we have to make distinction between actual, real world football needs... so we don't have to rehash the concerns about whether he holds some fantasy risk as far as to how much he may be sharing backfield duties with davis & how carries (& more inclusive category of number of touches) will be distributed... there is some risk there, but imo that is more of a factor in redraft... in dynasty (now i am talking about fantasy football implications briefly), i agree that his upside could be that of a HOFer like marshall faulk...

using a comp player like faulk gets to the crux of why i think it would be a mistake to pass on him... while there may be some slight disagreement on scouts about whether he is a full time RB, in my estimation, i have seen enough of him to answer to my satisfaction he has what it takes to be a feature RB... & carry the ball 15-20 times a game... not SURE he will AVERAGE 20 carries per game over his career (let alone his rookie year)... & has been pointed out on this board repeatedly... how many do? but imo he has the capability to do that when called upon... & if they throw it to him five times or so a game (like faulk in his prime & westbrook now), that should get him in the neighborhood of 20 TOUCHES per game... faulk was obviously an unusual case representing an intersection of phenomenal talent with rare opportunity... the rams ran a lot when they got near the goal line... & he was talented enough to punch it in enough that he broke the combined rush/receiving TD record before his balky knees stalled his career in recent seasons...

i'm not sure if bush will be afforded the opportunity to be a goal line runner as much as faulk was... but as far as being a feature RB at next level, i have no doubt he has the requisite ability to run inside for the tough yards that a complete RB has to do... like all young RBs, he will probably have a lot to learn about pass pro...

i never saw barry sanders run at oklahoma state... but bush is the most talented & naturally gifted open field runner i have ever seen at the collegiate level... i have to agree when i hear a scout like mike mayock (nfl.com) say he is the best RB he has graded... EVER...

what makes him so special... even if he had stone hands... he is still the most gifted pure runner i have seen in the open field... including those RBs i have seen on highlights, barry sanders might be an unfair comparison, but he does look a lot like gale sayers...

but the kicker is... not only does he NOT have stone hands... he immediately enters the NFL as one of the best receiving RBs to jump up to the next level... his ability to split out wide & run routes & get separation like a WR are already faulk in his prime-like...

i like the fit with new HC kubiak, which seems like a much more favorable destination than if staid, stodgy, stuck-in-a-rut defensive specialist HC dom capers was still around with his ineffectual old OC...

i fully expect him to be creative in finding ways to get the ball to bush in space... where he is a horrific mismatch in the open field with LBs... & even safeties (except for maybe sean taylor... & he could be going in the pokey)...

this probably isn't exact analogy... but some CIN fans might not of liked the selection of carson palmer if they had a competent QB veteran presence in kitna... bengals had a lot of holes to fill, yada yada...

sound familiar?

yet that gutsy pick by marvin lewis (he also could have traded down?) now looks like a stroke of genius in retrospect... based on his awesome 2005, palmer looks ready to someday soon inherit the mantle as maybe the best QB in the game... anyway, he easily looks to be one of top 2-3 young signal callers in the NFL, imo...

* where the above anology is admittedly inexact... some might make the case that davis is a better RB vis-a-vis HIS RB peers than kitna was among HIS at QB... but davis has already missed a lot of time during his still short career... & i am factoring that risk into my overall comparison of how he stacks up cross-positionally (did i just coin a word? ) with kitna...

HOUSTON TEXANS - 1.1

THE PICK - REGGIE BUSH, RB (USC)

 

[Chaos Commish]

HOUSTON TEXANS - 1.1

THE PICK - REGGIE BUSH, RB (USC)

Anything else is just overthinking it and very likely a big mistake.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

HOUSTON TEXANS - 1.1

THE PICK - REGGIE BUSH, RB (USC)

Anything else is just overthinking it and very likely a big mistake.

what they said

 

[cstu]

Winston is too slow for LT and is coming back from an ACL.

Winston was the fastest OT at the Combine and ran better for his Pro Day. He is significantly faster than Scott. He has great feet too. The "measureables" holding him back are short arms and some technique issues. He's a good candidate for LT.

He has really only had one dominant season (his sophomore year) in college so that's a concern. He might have great feet, he had trouble with speed rushing DE's in college and it doesn't bode well for him going up against better players in the NFL. The potential is there for him to get better and he would be great in the 2nd round but there's too much risk for the #19 pick.

 

[Chaos Commish]

HOUSTON TEXANS - 1.1

THE PICK - REGGIE BUSH, RB (USC)

Guys, let's turn this into a round 1 mock considering free agency and the combine pro day information. When we get to page two, I'll update the top post (or very near) for easier reference. On the clock: New Orleans

While Brees was talking to the Saints and Dolphins word leaked out that he didn't want to sign with NO if they were taking a QB here. Considering his shoulder, I doubt he won that debate, but it still seems likely NO goes with an elite player at another position. Initial reports after Brees signed suggested Mario Williams was going to be taken here. He could, but with Smith and Grant at DE, 35 year old Gandy and LT, and D'Brick out there, Ferguson is my pick. I think Bloom concurs.

Thoughts?

Be patient with this one. I won't be able to move as fast as I did with round 2 of EG's last Shark Pool corroborative mock.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Thoughts?

Be patient with this one. I won't be able to move as fast as I did with round 2 of EG's last Shark Pool corroborative mock.

Yes. Bookends of Furguson and Brown for the next 5-8 years.The only darkhorse I could see is Vernon Davis. Give Brees a Gates-style TE to throw to perhaps?

 

[Ridgelake]

If they don't trade down to 4 and pick up #29, I'd take Ferguson. They have talked about Super Mario here. But his inconsistency coupled with the strong DEs already on the roster would send me to Fergy.

 

[Chaos Commish]

1.1 Texans - Reggie Bush

1.2 Saints - D'Brickashaw Ferguson

On the Clock:

Tennessee Titans.

Leinart or Young seem like the obvious picks. With Young on a perceived slide, Leinart seems the frontrunner. Do not underestimate the stories that Tennessee is enamored with Cutler. How wierd would that be if Mayock turned out to be right? I have read two different "sources" - one claiming they graded Cutler highest, and another saying Leinart. Cutler's pro day was exceptional, the Titans had a huge contingent on hand (it was local). They then brought him in for a full 8 hour work day that was supposedly about chalk talk to find out what the kid knows. One thing is certain, Tennessee is looking very hard at all three QBs and probably undecided. Young is working out for them today, so we'll get some juicy news and quotes later.

All that said, my pick is Leinart.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

On the Clock:

Tennessee Titans. 

My three sided dice rolls up Leinart.Three reasons:

He's the most experienced. Norm Chow. He's won at the big time level.

 

[Bizkiteer]

On the Clock:

Tennessee Titans. 

My three sided dice rolls up Leinart.Three reasons:

He's the most experienced. Norm Chow. He's won at the big time level.

Ditto!

 

[cstu]

On the Clock:

Tennessee Titans.

My three sided dice rolls up Leinart.Three reasons:

He's the most experienced. Norm Chow. He's won at the big time level.

Should be Leinart since I've seen no indication that Chow doesn't like him. Cutler is a very real possibility as the local guy but Leinart seems be ideal for Chow's spread offense based on making good reads.

 

[Chaos Commish]

On the Clock:

Tennessee Titans.

My three sided dice rolls up Leinart.Three reasons:

He's the most experienced. Norm Chow. He's won at the big time level.

Agreed. The 8 hour work day with Cutler probably means Matt will get the same type of attention. He will kick butt in a chalk talk. This is the offense he cut his teeth running, then ran to perfection. I will admit that I have an odd hunch that Young is such a freak he may get the nod this early. Just a hunch, but I'll save that for now... 1.1 Texans - Reggie Bush

1.2 Saints - D'Brickashaw Ferguson

1.3 Titans - Matt Leinart

On the clock: 1.4 New York Jets

Free agency really has me torn on this one. Mario? Young? Hawk? I've always like them taking DeAngelo, and I read a Jets blog arguing hard for it yesterday. But with Abe gone...

My pick, Mario Williams.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

On the clock:  1.4 New York Jets

Vince Young or Jay Cutler.With the extra pick in the first, they'll select a DE or LB with that pick instead of the #4.

 

[Bizkiteer]

On the clock:  1.4 New York Jets

Free agency really has me torn on this one.  Mario?  Young?  Hawk?  I've always like them taking DeAngelo, and I read a Jets blog arguing hard for it yesterday.  But with Abe gone...

My pick, Mario Williams.

I think they will need to fill the DE spot and will take M. Williams with this pick. Hawk is tempting, but they will try to get a LB'er later (maybe 29th pick). They will not draft Young. Of course, this is if they don't trade up to #2 to get Leinart. IMO

 

[Chaos Commish]

On the clock: 1.4 New York Jets

Vince Young or Jay Cutler.With the extra pick in the first, they'll select a DE or LB with that pick instead of the #4.

1 vote Mario1/2 for Vince

1/2 for Jay

 

[Chaos Commish]

edit for updates