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Chat with Mel Kiper
Welcome to The Show! On Wednesday, NFL draft and college football guru Mel Kiper will drop by to address all of your draft-related concerns.
Send your questions now and join Mel this Wednesday at 1 p.m. ET!
Kiper Archive: Chats | Columns
SportsNation Buzzmaster: (12:55 PM ET ) The Super Bowl is over, but the Scouting Combine is right around the corner! Warm up for the NFL draft with Mel Kiper! Keep sending in your questions, he'll be here soon.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:02 PM ET ) Let's get to the questions. I'm evaluating players every day.
Drew, Marquette: There has been mixed reviews about Sinorice Moss. Where do you have him going? Go Canes!
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:03 PM ET ) I think if there are any mixed reviews, it's because he's not that big. He was also underutilized in that offense. He's one of the fastest players in the draft. The only thing with him, I see, is that he lacks ideal size. Last first or second.
Spencer Indy: Mel, will Maroney fall down to the colts at 30? If not who will they take at Rb?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:04 PM ET ) It's doubtful. Maroney is such a skilled running back. He could go as high as 21 to the Pats. The Colts like short players. Bob Sanders, Dwight Freeney, Robert Mathis, Mike Doss. They want football players, they don't care about size. Maurice Drew could be a possiblity. Deuce Luetui is another.
Matt, Pittsburgh, PA: After winning one for the thumb and the 32nd draft pick, what can we expect the Steelers to do with their first round pick? Defense or trading up for a running back?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:05 PM ET ) When you look at the RB situation, if they were to move up, it would be fore LenDale White. To stay where they are it would be Carpenter from OSU.
paul (miami, fl): do you think that marcus vick will even be drafted because of all his problems off the field? if so, would he be good in the nfl and for what team is he best suited for.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:06 PM ET ) When you're a late round pick, you're not suited for anybody. They see potential in the late round picks. You can't specify which team, but 5-6 round perhaps for him. At one point, he was a 3-4 round.
Keith (New York): Mel Now with Bradway stepping down from the New York Jets what will the Jets do in the draft.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:07 PM ET ) Bradway, doesn't effect their need areas. They still need an OT, RB and a CB and DT. Those are the areas of most concern. Also, they need a QB to back up Chad.
jim (ama, la): Do you think Joe Addai can contribute to an NFL immediately, or will he not see the field much?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:08 PM ET ) I think he can contribute, because he's a versatile performer. He's a No. 2 back at LSU. When he had an opportunity, he's shown it. He has good hands and can block.
Greg (Scranton, Pa): Who might the Bears looking at in the first 2 rounds of the draft. Do you see them trading up for TE Davis maybe??
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:09 PM ET ) No, I don't think they'll go up to get Davis. For a possible TE, Pope, Fasano. Those are realistic. They could look at OG, WR.
Jeff Thronson,Goldsboro,NC: Without the trade of culpepper who do you see the VIKINGS looking at as the positions of need and who do they select first?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:10 PM ET ) They need S and CB. They also have a need at WR, LB, RB. You could see them at the first round looking at White, Jimmy Williams from Va. Tech.
vinman, east hartford CT: Mel, love the job you do. On your 1st round projection board you have Cutler going to Detroit...what's the story with Dan Orlavsky? I'm a big UCONN fan and thought he had most of the tools to possibly make it in the NFL.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:11 PM ET ) He's got skills. Orlovsky was a late round pick. Cutler has a higher grade. Do they feel Orlovsky is the QB of the future? They have plenty of need areas. I just think Cutler is going to go somewhere in the early first round.
Jim: Waupaca, WI: If Favre does retire, are the Packers really set on Rodgers or are Leinert, Young or Cutler worth a look. Rodgers does not impress me.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:12 PM ET ) No, you can't take any QBs. If you took Rodgers last year, you can't take it away from him now. You took him with the attitude that he would replace Favre. You have to go with a LB like Hawk. They have needs at RB, DE, CB, OG.
Shawn (Detroit): Hey Mel, who is the better fit in Oakland...A.J Hawk or Mario Williams?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:13 PM ET ) I think they'd both be ideal. Hawk would make sense to Oakland. Where they're picking, they'll be looking at one of those two. You take the highest rated player on the board. If you're asking me, it's too close to call. We don't have any accurate measures on Williams until the combine. Until those numbers are in on Williams, I can't say for sure.
Matt (NJ): Mel, who do you see the Giants drafting at #25?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:14 PM ET ) I think they go with CBs. Johanathan Joseph CB from S. Carolina. Tye Hill from Clemson. They have need at LB, OT. CB is their No. 1 priority.
Matt (Tampa): What is the possiblity that the Bucs could land Cromartie or Sims?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:15 PM ET ) Well, where the Bucs are picking they'll have a choice at either. They have Brooks already, and he's like Sims. They have needs at OT, LB, WR. Sims and Cromartie, there's a good chance they'll be there at 23.
tim manning (illionis): who is a better quaterback vince young or matt leinhart
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:16 PM ET ) Leinart, I have No. 1. Young second, Cutler third. Leinart played at a high level for three straight years. Slight edge to Leinart. He could go to NO at 2. There's a minimal amount of difference between the two. There's going to be lots of debate over taht.
Dave (STL): Mel, do you think the Rams might look at Vernon Davis at 11 with their obvious need on defense?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:18 PM ET ) Well, at that point, you don't worry about need. You don't force need at No. 11. Don't get too rapped up in need. Most teams have needs at 5-6 positions. You have to get the best player. If Davis is there, you have to take him. But I agree, they do have need on defense.
J.J. (Johnstown): At 18 will the cowboys take a saftey like Darnell Bing. Or maybe a WR like Holmes or Moss?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:19 PM ET ) I think it's too high for Bing. They could take FS is No. 1 on the list. OT. Marcus McNeill. LB, WR are need areas. They could take a Jimmy Williams, Ko Simpson. Those are good picks for them.
Jim Antioch, CA: There have been Rumors Arizona will take LenDale White, what do you think?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:20 PM ET ) I think they take a RB. I have them taking DeAngelo Williams from Memphis. You could make an argument that he was the best player at the Senior Bowl.
Scott (LA): How would you rate the overall tallent of this draft?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:21 PM ET ) It's always good. They're always solid. The talent is there. Every year, there are guys that disappoint early and ones that surprise later. I never get too wrapped up in grading the draft. The perception isn't reality. I always stay that teams that do the best job evaluating will always do well.
Ryan: (Hoover AL): Hey Mel!!! Big 49er fan here. How much do the 49ers like Vernon Davis? If the niners lose the coin flip to the Raiders and Hawk isnt on the board, what are the chances they draft Davis to help Smith out?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:22 PM ET ) They could. I have them taking Huff, because he's versatile. CB is their No. 1 need. The last time they drafted a DB this high it was Ronnie Lott. If Hawk was there, he'd be an ideal choice. They also need a TE. If he's there, Hawk. Then Huff and then Davis.
Jamie (Richmond,VA): Out of the your top five picks, who is going to make an immediate impact on their team?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:24 PM ET ) That should be Reggie Bush. RBs will always make the most impact. If you're trying to find the guy who will make the most impact right away, always look to the RBs. Look at Williams and Brown from this year. It's the easiest position to transition from college to the pros and high school to college. So mark down Bush and the other RBs.
Aaron (Akron): Mel,Who do you see the Browns drafting at 12?Or maybe trade down?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:25 PM ET ) They always could move. They need help in the DL and OL and LB. If they stay at 12, they look at Chad Greenway. They'll look closely at moving down. The more picks, the more players they can get. Trust Phil Savage to make the right offer.
Adam (Fort Myers, FL): What's your take on Jeremy Bloom? Given his speed and athleiticism, is he worth giving a shot despite his size?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:26 PM ET ) He's going to get a shot. He's going to be a very intriguing draft choice for somebody. he's going to catch the football, he has excellent punt return capabilities. His skiing skills will help him. He applies them on the football field. He's about 5-9 and he'll be about 180-185 for football. I think he'll go in the 3-4 round.
Larry: Appleton, WI: Any chance that Wisconsin RB calhoun slides into the second round? I'd love to see him stay in state and go to Green Bay.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:28 PM ET ) Yeah, I think he is a second rounder. The thing preventing him from going higher is his size. He's about 5-10. He wore down late in the season. He'll go just about the same spot as Clinton Portis in the mid second round. Teams that will be looking at him will be Green Bay, Arizona, New England, Pittsburgh, Indy.
Jeremy (MN): How did Gophers OL Mark Setterstrom look at the senior bowl? Where do you see him going?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:28 PM ET ) He's an experienced, technically sound pure guard. At times he looked overmatched and at time he held his own. A second day pick.
Tom (Chicago): If Brady Quinn came out, is he third on your QB list?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:30 PM ET ) It's hard to say, but you're not looking at Quinn through the draft processes. If he's not going through the process, it's hard for me to evaluate him. Especially when you have the other talented QBs in the mix. Most would have had him third in the group. Going in, I probably would have had it LEinart, Young, Quinn, Cutler. Next year, I think Quinn could be the top 3 picks next year.
Brett (LA): If the Broncos used both their first rounders to trade up, how far up could they get? 10th pick?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:31 PM ET ) It depends what you're targeting. If you're targeting a WR, there's nothing to move up to get. They have other needs. I don't see a player at the positions they need that would be intriguing enough to get.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:32 PM ET ) We're also going to be watching the TO sweepstakes. Somebody that needs a WR is going to get TO and that's going to take a need away. This WR group is not very good. The first WR, I have going at 19.
Kevin (Ellenboro, NC): Do you see D. Ferguson as a franchise OT at the level of a Munoz or Pace?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:33 PM ET ) You'd have to through the other guys up there too, Ogden, Bosseli. I think he will be considered in that elite category. I don't know if his grade will be as high as the others, but he'll have a good grade.
Brian (Mass): Mel, Who do you see the Patriots drafting?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:34 PM ET ) I'm thinking running back. Maroney at 21 would be a nice pick. The Pats do have needs at other places. CB, S, LB. You could look at any of those positions. Tye Hill.
WESS INDY: WHO IS THE BEST UNOTICED RB IN THE DRAFT
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:35 PM ET ) Some underrated guys are PJ Daniels, Leon Washington from FSU. Usually you don't have anybody that no one has heard of, with the extent of the evaluations. A third guy would be Andre Hall from S. Florida.
Brad (Albuquerque): Is there ANY chance Buffalo could scrap the Losman expirament and draft Jay Cutler?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:37 PM ET ) I don't see that happening. They have critical need areas at a variety of positions. They need a DT, WR. You can't draft Losman two years ago and give up on him this early. It was a previous regime, but you can't give up on him. Whether he's going to be a quality QB in this league, remains to be seen. If you're thinking QB, I don't think Cutler's grade will be as high as it would need to be to give up on Losman.
Keith (Chicago): Who is a linebacker or saftey that could drop to the Bears that would be an immediate impact player. Otherwise a TE it is.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:38 PM ET ) LB or S for where the Bears are picking, an Ernie Sims, Jackson are the LBs that could be there. Ko Simpson that could be there.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:38 PM ET ) I look at them, the needs are TE, OG, WR, LB.
Mike (Boca Raton): If the steelers let Randle El get away in free agency, can you see them drafting Michael Robinson in round 3 as his replacement?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:40 PM ET ) Their history has shown that they will take a QB in college and make him into a WR. To me, Robinson didn't show at the Senior Bowl practices the natural pass catching skills to be a WR. You're also going to see a Brad Smith make a position change. We're going to see several QBs make that change. Third round may be high for Robinson.
Shaun (Livermore, CA): Mel, What's your gut instinct on the Dolphins? Do you think they move upt o draft a QB or stand still and get OLINE or Safety help?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:42 PM ET ) I think Cutler is the guy they'd be thinking about. If they have to move ahead of somebody, they'd go ahead of Detroit or Arizona to get Cutler. They have needs at G, WR, S, OLB. They need to get younger on defense. At that point, they might go with CB.
Jeff (Kansas City, MO): Mel, love the work you do. Where do you see Missouri's Brad Smith going in the draft? On the surface he seems to possess a lot of qualities of Randle-El.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:43 PM ET ) Yeah, he's got a lot of athletic abillity. He has good size. The workouts for him will be critical. You have to show hands and the ability to make cuts. You need to show potential in that are. The workouts will dictate where he goes. He's one of those guys that's hard to predict this early.
rUSS (lORAS): How do you think Whitehurst will do at the next level?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:44 PM ET ) Whitehurst has got a chance. He's got good size. He had the shoulder that bothered him, but he had the surgery. His performance in Mobile was solid. He throws a nice ball. A little inconsistent.
Peter (Ann Arbor): What is the fate of Northwestern's quarterback Brett Basanez?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:45 PM ET ) He's a second day possiblity. Really accurate. He benefitted from that Wildcat offense. His arm strength is OK. I thought he had a great year. He's a guy in the second day you have to think about bringing in.
Felice (Miami): If Omar Jacobs has a good permformance at the scouting combine...where do you see him go in the draft?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:46 PM ET ) He's a difficult evaluation for me as well. He has that unorthodox delivery. When you look at Jacobs, this year wasn't as good as last year. The release does cause some concern for me. He's not the athlete that Young is. With Jacobs, he's going to give me the biggest challenge to give a grade.
Charles, CT: How will the CBA or lack of one affect the upcoming draft?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:47 PM ET ) It will impact some of the free agents in terms of where they will end up. It will impact that. In terms of the draft, teams have needs, and the players are there. I don't think it will have much impact.
Manny (Austin, TX): Is Griffin from Texas a good CB prospect?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:48 PM ET ) He's a CB/S. He's a tough, tough kid. He'll come in and hit you. He's got good size. When you look at him, his ball skills are questionable. He had a very good year for TX. He may move to safety. He's got great special teams area.
Ben (Loras): Mel, I love what you do with draft evaluating. One quick question--what position is the deepest in this year's draft?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:49 PM ET ) Tight end is very very deep and very strong. It's one of the best years I've seen. Davis, Pope, Fasano, all juniors are up there. Byrd, Lewis, Daniels, Thomas. I haven't even covered some of the guys that will make an impact.
Jason: Cleveland, OH: Mel, do you see a good 'tweener' prospect out there that could make a big jump on the boards between now and draft day, similar to the one that Demarcus Ware made last year?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:51 PM ET ) There's a number of those guys. Lawson. Kamerion Wimble, Brent Hawkins. Charlton Keith from Kansas. There are a number of players that could do that. There are a bunch of CB/S and DE/LB guys.
Matt, NC: What do you see the Panthers doing with their first-round pick?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:52 PM ET ) Carolina has some need areas that they can get with their first rounder. TE is a need. Dominique Byrd is a guy there. WR, DL are also needs.
Jonny (Yuma, AZ): Mel, do you see Davis having greater potential and talent then Winslow II had when he was drafted?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:54 PM ET ) I think they're very comparable when coming out. Winslow has not had a chance to showcase his skills. He's had injuries. It's a shame that he hasn't been able to be out there and show what he can do. Davis will have a very similar grade. Davis could go as early as 7 or 11.
Kevin (NY): Should the Giants try to move up to get one of those top 3 LB's?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:54 PM ET ) I think they go up to get Hawk is too far. Greenway is up there as well. Ryans could still be there for the Giants. I still think CB is the area they're going to look at. Joseph, Hill they'll take looks at.
Perry (Miami, FL): What are your thoughts on the QB from Texas State Nealy? Thanks
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:55 PM ET ) I saw him at Houston before he moved on to Texas State. He led them into the I-AA playoffs. He didn't finish strong at the all-star game. He's a long range developmental QB.
Drew, Marquette: Where in the draft to you see Devin Hester going? Possibly to the Lions in Round 2?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:56 PM ET ) That's awful high for him. He didn't have the kind of year to be a second round. He'll go in the 3-4 round. He'll be used in the return game. He never carved a niche for himself at Miami. He's going to have to prove somethings.
Casey (FC, Iowa): Which team will select Abdul Hodge in the second round?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:58 PM ET ) It's a possiblity for him in the second round. Maybe the third. He's been productive in college. He's got the build of an MLB. He's good at the run. He has great instincts. His coverage skills still need some work.
Kenric (Silver Spring, MD): Mel, what are the Seahawks needs in this draft? What do you think they'll address first?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:58 PM ET ) WR is a need. They lack a true No. 1. They need an OLB. They could use a pass rushing DE. Maurice Stovall from Notre Dame is what I'm projecting.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (2:00 PM ET ) We covered just about all the teams in the NFL. We're kind of in a lull period. I'm spending 8-10 hours a day evaluating players. I'm going to be constantly updating my drafts. I'm going to provide as much information as possible until the combine and the draft. I'll be here again next Wednesday to chat from 1-2.
Welcome to The Show! On Wednesday, NFL draft and college football guru Mel Kiper will drop by to address all of your draft-related concerns.
Send your questions now and join Mel this Wednesday at 1 p.m. ET!
Kiper Archive: Chats | Columns
SportsNation Buzzmaster: (12:55 PM ET ) The Super Bowl is over, but the Scouting Combine is right around the corner! Warm up for the NFL draft with Mel Kiper! Keep sending in your questions, he'll be here soon.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:02 PM ET ) Let's get to the questions. I'm evaluating players every day.
Drew, Marquette: There has been mixed reviews about Sinorice Moss. Where do you have him going? Go Canes!
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:03 PM ET ) I think if there are any mixed reviews, it's because he's not that big. He was also underutilized in that offense. He's one of the fastest players in the draft. The only thing with him, I see, is that he lacks ideal size. Last first or second.
Spencer Indy: Mel, will Maroney fall down to the colts at 30? If not who will they take at Rb?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:04 PM ET ) It's doubtful. Maroney is such a skilled running back. He could go as high as 21 to the Pats. The Colts like short players. Bob Sanders, Dwight Freeney, Robert Mathis, Mike Doss. They want football players, they don't care about size. Maurice Drew could be a possiblity. Deuce Luetui is another.
Matt, Pittsburgh, PA: After winning one for the thumb and the 32nd draft pick, what can we expect the Steelers to do with their first round pick? Defense or trading up for a running back?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:05 PM ET ) When you look at the RB situation, if they were to move up, it would be fore LenDale White. To stay where they are it would be Carpenter from OSU.
paul (miami, fl): do you think that marcus vick will even be drafted because of all his problems off the field? if so, would he be good in the nfl and for what team is he best suited for.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:06 PM ET ) When you're a late round pick, you're not suited for anybody. They see potential in the late round picks. You can't specify which team, but 5-6 round perhaps for him. At one point, he was a 3-4 round.
Keith (New York): Mel Now with Bradway stepping down from the New York Jets what will the Jets do in the draft.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:07 PM ET ) Bradway, doesn't effect their need areas. They still need an OT, RB and a CB and DT. Those are the areas of most concern. Also, they need a QB to back up Chad.
jim (ama, la): Do you think Joe Addai can contribute to an NFL immediately, or will he not see the field much?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:08 PM ET ) I think he can contribute, because he's a versatile performer. He's a No. 2 back at LSU. When he had an opportunity, he's shown it. He has good hands and can block.
Greg (Scranton, Pa): Who might the Bears looking at in the first 2 rounds of the draft. Do you see them trading up for TE Davis maybe??
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:09 PM ET ) No, I don't think they'll go up to get Davis. For a possible TE, Pope, Fasano. Those are realistic. They could look at OG, WR.
Jeff Thronson,Goldsboro,NC: Without the trade of culpepper who do you see the VIKINGS looking at as the positions of need and who do they select first?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:10 PM ET ) They need S and CB. They also have a need at WR, LB, RB. You could see them at the first round looking at White, Jimmy Williams from Va. Tech.
vinman, east hartford CT: Mel, love the job you do. On your 1st round projection board you have Cutler going to Detroit...what's the story with Dan Orlavsky? I'm a big UCONN fan and thought he had most of the tools to possibly make it in the NFL.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:11 PM ET ) He's got skills. Orlovsky was a late round pick. Cutler has a higher grade. Do they feel Orlovsky is the QB of the future? They have plenty of need areas. I just think Cutler is going to go somewhere in the early first round.
Jim: Waupaca, WI: If Favre does retire, are the Packers really set on Rodgers or are Leinert, Young or Cutler worth a look. Rodgers does not impress me.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:12 PM ET ) No, you can't take any QBs. If you took Rodgers last year, you can't take it away from him now. You took him with the attitude that he would replace Favre. You have to go with a LB like Hawk. They have needs at RB, DE, CB, OG.
Shawn (Detroit): Hey Mel, who is the better fit in Oakland...A.J Hawk or Mario Williams?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:13 PM ET ) I think they'd both be ideal. Hawk would make sense to Oakland. Where they're picking, they'll be looking at one of those two. You take the highest rated player on the board. If you're asking me, it's too close to call. We don't have any accurate measures on Williams until the combine. Until those numbers are in on Williams, I can't say for sure.
Matt (NJ): Mel, who do you see the Giants drafting at #25?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:14 PM ET ) I think they go with CBs. Johanathan Joseph CB from S. Carolina. Tye Hill from Clemson. They have need at LB, OT. CB is their No. 1 priority.
Matt (Tampa): What is the possiblity that the Bucs could land Cromartie or Sims?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:15 PM ET ) Well, where the Bucs are picking they'll have a choice at either. They have Brooks already, and he's like Sims. They have needs at OT, LB, WR. Sims and Cromartie, there's a good chance they'll be there at 23.
tim manning (illionis): who is a better quaterback vince young or matt leinhart
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:16 PM ET ) Leinart, I have No. 1. Young second, Cutler third. Leinart played at a high level for three straight years. Slight edge to Leinart. He could go to NO at 2. There's a minimal amount of difference between the two. There's going to be lots of debate over taht.
Dave (STL): Mel, do you think the Rams might look at Vernon Davis at 11 with their obvious need on defense?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:18 PM ET ) Well, at that point, you don't worry about need. You don't force need at No. 11. Don't get too rapped up in need. Most teams have needs at 5-6 positions. You have to get the best player. If Davis is there, you have to take him. But I agree, they do have need on defense.
J.J. (Johnstown): At 18 will the cowboys take a saftey like Darnell Bing. Or maybe a WR like Holmes or Moss?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:19 PM ET ) I think it's too high for Bing. They could take FS is No. 1 on the list. OT. Marcus McNeill. LB, WR are need areas. They could take a Jimmy Williams, Ko Simpson. Those are good picks for them.
Jim Antioch, CA: There have been Rumors Arizona will take LenDale White, what do you think?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:20 PM ET ) I think they take a RB. I have them taking DeAngelo Williams from Memphis. You could make an argument that he was the best player at the Senior Bowl.
Scott (LA): How would you rate the overall tallent of this draft?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:21 PM ET ) It's always good. They're always solid. The talent is there. Every year, there are guys that disappoint early and ones that surprise later. I never get too wrapped up in grading the draft. The perception isn't reality. I always stay that teams that do the best job evaluating will always do well.
Ryan: (Hoover AL): Hey Mel!!! Big 49er fan here. How much do the 49ers like Vernon Davis? If the niners lose the coin flip to the Raiders and Hawk isnt on the board, what are the chances they draft Davis to help Smith out?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:22 PM ET ) They could. I have them taking Huff, because he's versatile. CB is their No. 1 need. The last time they drafted a DB this high it was Ronnie Lott. If Hawk was there, he'd be an ideal choice. They also need a TE. If he's there, Hawk. Then Huff and then Davis.
Jamie (Richmond,VA): Out of the your top five picks, who is going to make an immediate impact on their team?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:24 PM ET ) That should be Reggie Bush. RBs will always make the most impact. If you're trying to find the guy who will make the most impact right away, always look to the RBs. Look at Williams and Brown from this year. It's the easiest position to transition from college to the pros and high school to college. So mark down Bush and the other RBs.
Aaron (Akron): Mel,Who do you see the Browns drafting at 12?Or maybe trade down?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:25 PM ET ) They always could move. They need help in the DL and OL and LB. If they stay at 12, they look at Chad Greenway. They'll look closely at moving down. The more picks, the more players they can get. Trust Phil Savage to make the right offer.
Adam (Fort Myers, FL): What's your take on Jeremy Bloom? Given his speed and athleiticism, is he worth giving a shot despite his size?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:26 PM ET ) He's going to get a shot. He's going to be a very intriguing draft choice for somebody. he's going to catch the football, he has excellent punt return capabilities. His skiing skills will help him. He applies them on the football field. He's about 5-9 and he'll be about 180-185 for football. I think he'll go in the 3-4 round.
Larry: Appleton, WI: Any chance that Wisconsin RB calhoun slides into the second round? I'd love to see him stay in state and go to Green Bay.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:28 PM ET ) Yeah, I think he is a second rounder. The thing preventing him from going higher is his size. He's about 5-10. He wore down late in the season. He'll go just about the same spot as Clinton Portis in the mid second round. Teams that will be looking at him will be Green Bay, Arizona, New England, Pittsburgh, Indy.
Jeremy (MN): How did Gophers OL Mark Setterstrom look at the senior bowl? Where do you see him going?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:28 PM ET ) He's an experienced, technically sound pure guard. At times he looked overmatched and at time he held his own. A second day pick.
Tom (Chicago): If Brady Quinn came out, is he third on your QB list?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:30 PM ET ) It's hard to say, but you're not looking at Quinn through the draft processes. If he's not going through the process, it's hard for me to evaluate him. Especially when you have the other talented QBs in the mix. Most would have had him third in the group. Going in, I probably would have had it LEinart, Young, Quinn, Cutler. Next year, I think Quinn could be the top 3 picks next year.
Brett (LA): If the Broncos used both their first rounders to trade up, how far up could they get? 10th pick?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:31 PM ET ) It depends what you're targeting. If you're targeting a WR, there's nothing to move up to get. They have other needs. I don't see a player at the positions they need that would be intriguing enough to get.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:32 PM ET ) We're also going to be watching the TO sweepstakes. Somebody that needs a WR is going to get TO and that's going to take a need away. This WR group is not very good. The first WR, I have going at 19.
Kevin (Ellenboro, NC): Do you see D. Ferguson as a franchise OT at the level of a Munoz or Pace?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:33 PM ET ) You'd have to through the other guys up there too, Ogden, Bosseli. I think he will be considered in that elite category. I don't know if his grade will be as high as the others, but he'll have a good grade.
Brian (Mass): Mel, Who do you see the Patriots drafting?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:34 PM ET ) I'm thinking running back. Maroney at 21 would be a nice pick. The Pats do have needs at other places. CB, S, LB. You could look at any of those positions. Tye Hill.
WESS INDY: WHO IS THE BEST UNOTICED RB IN THE DRAFT
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:35 PM ET ) Some underrated guys are PJ Daniels, Leon Washington from FSU. Usually you don't have anybody that no one has heard of, with the extent of the evaluations. A third guy would be Andre Hall from S. Florida.
Brad (Albuquerque): Is there ANY chance Buffalo could scrap the Losman expirament and draft Jay Cutler?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:37 PM ET ) I don't see that happening. They have critical need areas at a variety of positions. They need a DT, WR. You can't draft Losman two years ago and give up on him this early. It was a previous regime, but you can't give up on him. Whether he's going to be a quality QB in this league, remains to be seen. If you're thinking QB, I don't think Cutler's grade will be as high as it would need to be to give up on Losman.
Keith (Chicago): Who is a linebacker or saftey that could drop to the Bears that would be an immediate impact player. Otherwise a TE it is.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:38 PM ET ) LB or S for where the Bears are picking, an Ernie Sims, Jackson are the LBs that could be there. Ko Simpson that could be there.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:38 PM ET ) I look at them, the needs are TE, OG, WR, LB.
Mike (Boca Raton): If the steelers let Randle El get away in free agency, can you see them drafting Michael Robinson in round 3 as his replacement?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:40 PM ET ) Their history has shown that they will take a QB in college and make him into a WR. To me, Robinson didn't show at the Senior Bowl practices the natural pass catching skills to be a WR. You're also going to see a Brad Smith make a position change. We're going to see several QBs make that change. Third round may be high for Robinson.
Shaun (Livermore, CA): Mel, What's your gut instinct on the Dolphins? Do you think they move upt o draft a QB or stand still and get OLINE or Safety help?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:42 PM ET ) I think Cutler is the guy they'd be thinking about. If they have to move ahead of somebody, they'd go ahead of Detroit or Arizona to get Cutler. They have needs at G, WR, S, OLB. They need to get younger on defense. At that point, they might go with CB.
Jeff (Kansas City, MO): Mel, love the work you do. Where do you see Missouri's Brad Smith going in the draft? On the surface he seems to possess a lot of qualities of Randle-El.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:43 PM ET ) Yeah, he's got a lot of athletic abillity. He has good size. The workouts for him will be critical. You have to show hands and the ability to make cuts. You need to show potential in that are. The workouts will dictate where he goes. He's one of those guys that's hard to predict this early.
rUSS (lORAS): How do you think Whitehurst will do at the next level?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:44 PM ET ) Whitehurst has got a chance. He's got good size. He had the shoulder that bothered him, but he had the surgery. His performance in Mobile was solid. He throws a nice ball. A little inconsistent.
Peter (Ann Arbor): What is the fate of Northwestern's quarterback Brett Basanez?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:45 PM ET ) He's a second day possiblity. Really accurate. He benefitted from that Wildcat offense. His arm strength is OK. I thought he had a great year. He's a guy in the second day you have to think about bringing in.
Felice (Miami): If Omar Jacobs has a good permformance at the scouting combine...where do you see him go in the draft?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:46 PM ET ) He's a difficult evaluation for me as well. He has that unorthodox delivery. When you look at Jacobs, this year wasn't as good as last year. The release does cause some concern for me. He's not the athlete that Young is. With Jacobs, he's going to give me the biggest challenge to give a grade.
Charles, CT: How will the CBA or lack of one affect the upcoming draft?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:47 PM ET ) It will impact some of the free agents in terms of where they will end up. It will impact that. In terms of the draft, teams have needs, and the players are there. I don't think it will have much impact.
Manny (Austin, TX): Is Griffin from Texas a good CB prospect?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:48 PM ET ) He's a CB/S. He's a tough, tough kid. He'll come in and hit you. He's got good size. When you look at him, his ball skills are questionable. He had a very good year for TX. He may move to safety. He's got great special teams area.
Ben (Loras): Mel, I love what you do with draft evaluating. One quick question--what position is the deepest in this year's draft?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:49 PM ET ) Tight end is very very deep and very strong. It's one of the best years I've seen. Davis, Pope, Fasano, all juniors are up there. Byrd, Lewis, Daniels, Thomas. I haven't even covered some of the guys that will make an impact.
Jason: Cleveland, OH: Mel, do you see a good 'tweener' prospect out there that could make a big jump on the boards between now and draft day, similar to the one that Demarcus Ware made last year?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:51 PM ET ) There's a number of those guys. Lawson. Kamerion Wimble, Brent Hawkins. Charlton Keith from Kansas. There are a number of players that could do that. There are a bunch of CB/S and DE/LB guys.
Matt, NC: What do you see the Panthers doing with their first-round pick?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:52 PM ET ) Carolina has some need areas that they can get with their first rounder. TE is a need. Dominique Byrd is a guy there. WR, DL are also needs.
Jonny (Yuma, AZ): Mel, do you see Davis having greater potential and talent then Winslow II had when he was drafted?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:54 PM ET ) I think they're very comparable when coming out. Winslow has not had a chance to showcase his skills. He's had injuries. It's a shame that he hasn't been able to be out there and show what he can do. Davis will have a very similar grade. Davis could go as early as 7 or 11.
Kevin (NY): Should the Giants try to move up to get one of those top 3 LB's?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:54 PM ET ) I think they go up to get Hawk is too far. Greenway is up there as well. Ryans could still be there for the Giants. I still think CB is the area they're going to look at. Joseph, Hill they'll take looks at.
Perry (Miami, FL): What are your thoughts on the QB from Texas State Nealy? Thanks
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:55 PM ET ) I saw him at Houston before he moved on to Texas State. He led them into the I-AA playoffs. He didn't finish strong at the all-star game. He's a long range developmental QB.
Drew, Marquette: Where in the draft to you see Devin Hester going? Possibly to the Lions in Round 2?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:56 PM ET ) That's awful high for him. He didn't have the kind of year to be a second round. He'll go in the 3-4 round. He'll be used in the return game. He never carved a niche for himself at Miami. He's going to have to prove somethings.
Casey (FC, Iowa): Which team will select Abdul Hodge in the second round?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:58 PM ET ) It's a possiblity for him in the second round. Maybe the third. He's been productive in college. He's got the build of an MLB. He's good at the run. He has great instincts. His coverage skills still need some work.
Kenric (Silver Spring, MD): Mel, what are the Seahawks needs in this draft? What do you think they'll address first?
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (1:58 PM ET ) WR is a need. They lack a true No. 1. They need an OLB. They could use a pass rushing DE. Maurice Stovall from Notre Dame is what I'm projecting.
SportsNation Mel Kiper: (2:00 PM ET ) We covered just about all the teams in the NFL. We're kind of in a lull period. I'm spending 8-10 hours a day evaluating players. I'm going to be constantly updating my drafts. I'm going to provide as much information as possible until the combine and the draft. I'll be here again next Wednesday to chat from 1-2.