Mock Draft - JimboJim Style (1 Viewer)

[JimboJim]

This is the first of what I plan to make a bi-weekly series of mocks leading up to the draft.

1. Oakland - JaMarcus Russell, QB, LSU

Golden rule of the draft is never pass on a possible franchise QB unless you already have one; the Raiders don't. I took Russell over Quinn based on his athletic upside and the leadership and maturity he'll displayed throughout last season.

2. Detroit - Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame

See above. Quinn was a superstar his entire collegiate career. Played poorly against LSU which dropped his stock. Joe Thomas might be the better player, but the impact a QB has on the game versus an OT is incomparable. Quinn will make everyone else on the Lions (OL & Def) better,

3. Cleveland - Calvin Johnson, WR, Georgia Tech

Anderson/Adams don't fit the Browns 3-4 scheme. Joe Thomas would be an upgrade at either tackle position, but neither are major weaknesses. This pick IMO comes down to Branch, Peterson or Johnson. The bottom line is that you can always find a space eating DT and a fair/decent RB in free-agency or later in the draft. A talent like Calvin Johnson, you cannot. BPA.

4. Arizona (f/Tampa Bay) - Joe Thomas, OT, Wisconsin

Arizona moves up a slot to get their man; in the process they give up their second or third. A perfect fit.

5. Tampa Bay (f/Arizona) - Jamaal Anderson, DE, Arkansas

Sackmaster supreme gives the second worst pass rush in the NFL last season the infusion of youth and speed off the edge it so badly needs.

6. Washington - Gaines Adams, DE, Clemson

Either Adams or Branch is the pick here. Both positions are of need and I believe you take the pass-rusher over the run-stopper every time.

7. Minnesota - Dwayne Jarrett, WR, USC

This guy is Mike Williams without the poor attitude and motivation problems. Speed isn't his forte, but that's not what this team needs. They need a WR that can make the catch across the middle. Peterson and Branch are probably rated a little higher, but neither player makes sense here.

8. Houston - Marshawn Lynch, RB, Cal

Say what you want, but this is my mock draft, so I get to make the pick. This scenario takes me back to 99 and 01. James over Ricky Williams and LT over McAllister. In both situations, the more highly touted back was passed on and both situations seemed to work out well. Lynch is a compact, slashing runner with speed, vision and toughness. He can also catch the ball, something important in the Texans offense. Peterson is a great pure runner, but he is tall and takes a lot of hits. Just doesn't seem to fit Houston IMO.

9. Maimi - Alan Branch, DT, Michigan

The Dolphins couldn't be happier.

10. Atlanta - Adrian Peterson, RB, Oklahoma

BPA pick; also, with Petrino at the helm, I believe Atlanta transitions to a more pro-style offense. What could be a better way to do that than find a 20-25 carry a game RB that move the chains and eats up the clock. Taking pressure off of Vick to do everything himself should make him a better player.

11. San Fran - LaRon Landry, S, LSU

A big hitter who can also cover; would do more for this defense than either a CB or DT. Too high for Ginn; he's a big step below Johnson and Jarrett.

12. Buffalo - Amobi Okoye, DT, Louisville

Stopping the run has been a problem ever since Pat Williams left. Okoye is a little undersized, but because of his age, I believe he has room to grow.

13. St. Louis - Patrick Willis, LB, Ole Miss

It seems like the Rams have been looking for a playmaking LB for years now. They need a defensive leader and someone that stuff the run and cover RBs and Tees out of the backfield. Willis appears to be the best in a fairly mediocre LB crop.

14. Carolina - Reggie Nelson, S, Florida

Reggie Nelson will be the eventual starter once Minter moves on; he has the ball hawk skills they need at safety

15. Pittsburgh - Quentin Moses, DE/LB, Georgia

Moses could play OLB in an "elephant" role similar to that of Ware or McGinest; situational pass-rusher to begin with. Other option might be to draft Levi Brown and move Starks inside.

16. Green Bay - Darelle Revis, CB, Pittsburgh

Both the top RBs are gone, and while Ginn would be tempting, WR isn't that big of a concern. Driver is top-notch, Jennings played well as a rookie, and they can sign a free-agent to be the #3. Plus, Koren Robinson might be back. There is no depth after Harris and Woodson at CB.

17. Jacksonville - Ted Ginn, WR, OSU

BPA. This team has no explosive players on offense aside from Jones-Drew. Finally, a WR that can stretch the field.

18. Cincinnati - Tank Tyler, DT, NC State

Tyler would be an upgrade over either Adams of Thorton at DT; his stock has been rising as of late.

19. Tennessee - Levi Brown, T, Penn St

They would have loved to get one of the top three WRs, but with them gone and a top tier OT falling into their laps, the choice is easy. Start building from the trenches out.

20. Giants - Paul Posluzny, LB, Penn St

Back to back Penn State picks. Puz would immediately help out a LB core that missed a ton of time due to injuries over the last couple of years.

21. Denver - Michael Griffin, S, Texas

Some additional help for the Denver secondary. A DT would be the best option, but with Tyler, Okoye and Branch all gone, there are none worth taking here.

22. Dallas - Robert Meachem, WR, Tennessee

If the Cowboys go back to a 4-3 and move Ware to DE, this pick becomes Timmons. As of right now, there would be no where to put him in the 3-4. Meacham is an explosive WR and with Glenn and Owens both 33+, the Cows need to start thinking about the future.

23. Kansas City - Dwayne Bowe, WR, LSU

The Chiefs take a shot at finally getting a true #1 WR with a guy that has been rising as of late.

24. New England - Leon Hall, CB, Michigan

The Pats luck out again. Hall will be a good corner across from Samuel.

25. Jets - Adam Carriker, DE, Nebraska

An imposing DE who can at the very least share reps with Ellis and Thomas and keep the D-line fresh.

26. Philly - Michael Bush, RB, Louisville

When did Philly start winning games last season; when they gave the ball to Westbrook. I think this team evolves to a more balanced offense next year. Westbrook is great, but he's not a 300+ carry back. What a tandem these two would make.

27. New Orleans - Lawrence Timmons, LB, Florida State

Scott Fujita and Scott Shanle are not long term solutions at LB; hopefully Timmons is.

28. New England - LaMarr Woodley, LB/DE, Michigan

There isn't a WR on the board worth taking here. Woodley could rotate with Banta-Cain to form a nasty outside pass rush from LB in the New England 3-4.

29. Baltimore - Justin Blalock, G, Texas

I really like Blalock, but the market for Guards just isn't there. A perfect fit for the Baltimore Ravens.

30. San Diego - Tony Ugoh, T, Arkansas

A formidable tackle who could play either RT or move inside to guard.

31. Indianapolis - Aaron Ross, CB, Texas

The Indy defensive backfield is a mess aside from Sanders. If they can develop Jackson, these two could make their pass defense respectable.

32. Chicago - Zach Miller, TE, Arizona St

BPA; could end up being this draft's Heath Miller.

Criticize away...

 

[Jiggyonthehut]

17. Jacksonville - Ted Ginn, WR, OSUBPA. This team has no explosive players on offense aside from Jones-Drew. Finally, a WR that can stretch the field.

XBPA here is either Levi Brown or Bowe. Both are better fits than Ginn Jr. The last thing we need is another inconsistant WR with tons of potential. We need a contributer right from the start.

 

[Chaos Commish]

4. Arizona (f/Tampa Bay) - Joe Thomas, OT, WisconsinArizona moves up a slot to get their man; in the process they give up their second or third. A perfect fit.5. Tampa Bay (f/Arizona) - Jamaal Anderson, DE, Arkansas

My basic rule of mock draft reading is to ignore the ones projecting trades. But this one is pretty harmless and makes a lot sense. Solid projection, imo. I could see it happening primarily because Gruden isn't exactly stoked with his OL either, so the threat of him taking Thomas looms for AZ.

 

[Chaos Commish]

17. Jacksonville - Ted Ginn, WR, OSUBPA. This team has no explosive players on offense aside from Jones-Drew. Finally, a WR that can stretch the field.

XBPA here is either Levi Brown or Bowe. Both are better fits than Ginn Jr. The last thing we need is another inconsistant WR with tons of potential. We need a contributer right from the start.

Bowe has been less consistent than Ginn. His case of the dropsies last year won't be forgotten because he had a couple good days in Mobile. He ended up dropping everything on Thursday and Friday and caught nothing in the game. Jax is a team full of Bowe's. I'm not arguing for Ginn, but I think that passing game could use some legit deep speed. Matt Jones ran a great 40, but he is a plodder easily thrown off his route whose 40 time isn't translating the the field. Ginn, for all his detractors, is going to be a huge headache for DCs next year. Bowe will not be considered anything to get overly concerned about. I thought Jax was happy at LT with Khalif Barnes? No? Levi is going to go around there, I agree.

 

[JimboJim]

17. Jacksonville - Ted Ginn, WR, OSUBPA. This team has no explosive players on offense aside from Jones-Drew. Finally, a WR that can stretch the field.

XBPA here is either Levi Brown or Bowe. Both are better fits than Ginn Jr. The last thing we need is another inconsistant WR with tons of potential. We need a contributer right from the start.

This was a team I stuggled with. Looking up and down their roster, they don't have a lot of major needs. Sad to say, but they have gotten very little from Reggie Williams, Matt Jones, Wilford or Mercedes Lewis. I wen't with the notion that the Jacksonville passing game needs a down the field, athletic and quick WR that can cause mismatches for defense. I see Ginn being used a a punt returner, on a lot of end-arounds, bubble screens. They need someone on the offense to make plays other than Jones-Drew.

 

[Fear & Loathing]

I don't follow the draft as fanatically as most here, but I do have two very strong instincts on this year's draft:

1. Detroit will trade down. Calvin Johnson is the best player in the draft. Oakland will probably take Russell, and Detroit won't take another high 1st round WR. Fortunately for Detroit, there are quite a few teams picking below them that are desperate for a can't miss top flight WR. Tampa Bay also has a huge need there. There should at least a few teams (MIN, SF, ATL, BUF, JAX) looking to get ahead of TB to pick the biggest difference maker in the draft: Calvin Johnson.

2. I think Brady Quinn will fall in this draft. I don't think Detroit or Cleveland will take him that high, and I think Houston may be the best fit. I wonder if Houston let's him slide past.

Like I said, I'm far from a draft expert. I just have a feeling...

 

[Chaos Commish]

8. Houston - Marshawn Lynch, RB, Cal

Say what you want, but this is my mock draft, so I get to make the pick. This scenario takes me back to 99 and 01. James over Ricky Williams and LT over McAllister. In both situations, the more highly touted back was passed on and both situations seemed to work out well. Lynch is a compact, slashing runner with speed, vision and toughness. He can also catch the ball, something important in the Texans offense. Peterson is a great pure runner, but he is tall and takes a lot of hits. Just doesn't seem to fit Houston IMO.

10. Atlanta - Adrian Peterson, RB, Oklahoma

I'm seeing a lot of Lynch before Peterson lately. They're both working out in AZ together and a scout has reported that they are pretty similar. I disagree with your placement though. Lynch is a creator. He stops and starts, cuts and wiggles, and everything Kubiak couldn't coach out of Morency. I just don't think it's a good match. Peterson on the other hand is about as good a cut and go runner as I can remember. I think they would take him in a heartbeat based on style as much as anything. Also, I have been looking at a lot of tape. Peterson is a dynamo pass blocking. He jacks up blitzing LBs. His technique is sharp and he's very explosive. I was surprised to see how good he was. Also, while he wasn't asked to catch a lot of balls, I am not convincedc he has a problem in that area. I'm open minded to that one if any homers have insights. His highlights show him snagging a few poorly thrown passes and turning up field for big plays, but that's why they're highlights and that's why I hate judging an RB by highlights. How many did he drop to get those on tape?

 

[Chaos Commish]

1. Detroit will trade down. Calvin Johnson is the best player in the draft.

Doesn't that make if very hard for Detroit to trade down? Cleveland would also be interested in stockpiling. Everyone knows Millen is probably not bold enough to take Calvin. His leverage is gone. I say they make Detroit pick and no suitors are that desperate to move up to #2. #3 or #4 may be a different story.

 

[Chaos Commish]

15. Pittsburgh - Quentin Moses, DE/LB, GeorgiaMoses could play OLB in an "elephant" role similar to that of Ware or McGinest; situational pass-rusher to begin with. Other option might be to draft Levi Brown and move Starks inside.26. Philly - Michael Bush, RB, Louisville29. Baltimore - Justin Blalock, G, TexasI really like Blalock, but the market for Guards just isn't there. A perfect fit for the Baltimore Ravens.30. San Diego - Tony Ugoh, T, ArkansasA formidable tackle who could play either RT or move inside to guard.Criticize away...

I think Ugoh and Blalock played their way out of the first round last week. Ugoh, a converted TE, is pure LT anyway, so SD won't be interested. Bush in the first round to Philly is fun for fantasy fans, but probably pretty unlikely. He is going to have to set fire to the Combine and have an amazing pro day to go in the first. Scouts have told him they see him as an Hback in the NFL. Most have Moses falling way below 15. I like the kid a lot, but I think there is legit reason to be concerned. That's all. Good job and thanks for the time and effort.

 

[Schrute]

Bush in the first round to Philly is fun for fantasy fans, but probably pretty unlikely. He is going to have to set fire to the Combine and have an amazing pro day to go in the first. Scouts have told him they see him as an Hback in the NFL.

This is the first I've seen Hback and Michael Bush in the same sentence.

 

[whoisjohngalt]

1. Detroit will trade down. Calvin Johnson is the best player in the draft.

Doesn't that make if very hard for Detroit to trade down? Cleveland would also be interested in stockpiling. Everyone knows Millen is probably not bold enough to take Calvin. His leverage is gone. I say they make Detroit pick and no suitors are that desperate to move up to #2. #3 or #4 may be a different story.

It depends who wins the CLE/TB coin flip. If TB gets the 3rd pick, then DET is the trading partner to focus on. If CLE gets the 3rd pick, then it's the Browns. They flip that coin at the combine, right?

 

[Chaos Commish]

Bush in the first round to Philly is fun for fantasy fans, but probably pretty unlikely. He is going to have to set fire to the Combine and have an amazing pro day to go in the first. Scouts have told him they see him as an Hback in the NFL.

This is the first I've seen Hback and Michael Bush in the same sentence.

It was the game announcers one Saturday. Camera was panning to Bush on the sidelines and they discussed talking to him about the draft and... getting this precisely as I have it on tape... he told them some scouts had told him they see him as an H-Back type.I reported this a couple months ago and we've talked about it a few times. I like Michael Bush more than his detractors and less than his zealous fans. I think he could be a devastating H-Back. I'm not sure how he holds up as an RB-- bigger they come harder they fall and all. I love his speed, hands and open field moves. He could be very good. He could be Ron Dayne.

 

[Pat Patriot]

4. Arizona (f/Tampa Bay) - Joe Thomas, OT, WisconsinArizona moves up a slot to get their man; in the process they give up their second or third. A perfect fit.5. Tampa Bay (f/Arizona) - Jamaal Anderson, DE, Arkansas

My basic rule of mock draft reading is to ignore the ones projecting trades. But this one is pretty harmless and makes a lot sense. Solid projection, imo. I could see it happening primarily because Gruden isn't exactly stoked with his OL either, so the threat of him taking Thomas looms for AZ.

The trade is TB allowing Arizona to move up one spot ahead of them. If Gruden wanted Thomas, he wouldnt be trading wtih Arizona.

 

[Crusaderfan]

As an Eagles fan, I would love to see them take Bush or a LB in the 1st round. BUT as an Eagles fan, I can state with about 90% confidence that their 1st round pick will be a DL, CB or S. Have seen it so many times before - Simon, McDougal, Patterson and Bunkley.

In Reid's mind there are 3 positions that are insignificant in his system - RB, WR and LB. By no coindence, these are also the Eagles weak spots (especially when they let Stallworth walk).

Willie

 

[Mr. Brownstone]

17. Jacksonville - Ted Ginn, WR, OSUBPA. This team has no explosive players on offense aside from Jones-Drew. Finally, a WR that can stretch the field.

XBPA here is either Levi Brown or Bowe. Both are better fits than Ginn Jr. The last thing we need is another inconsistant WR with tons of potential. We need a contributer right from the start.

Bowe has been less consistent than Ginn. His case of the dropsies last year won't be forgotten because he had a couple good days in Mobile. He ended up dropping everything on Thursday and Friday and caught nothing in the game. Jax is a team full of Bowe's. I'm not arguing for Ginn, but I think that passing game could use some legit deep speed. Matt Jones ran a great 40, but he is a plodder easily thrown off his route whose 40 time isn't translating the the field. Ginn, for all his detractors, is going to be a huge headache for DCs next year. Bowe will not be considered anything to get overly concerned about. I thought Jax was happy at LT with Khalif Barnes? No? Levi is going to go around there, I agree.

They are very happy with Barnes, but it might not stop them from drafting him if he is their BAP when their pick comes. But I agree that Ginn would add the field stretching element that is sorely missing. I wouldn't mind seeing some attention paid to the DE or S position though.

 

[billymays]

As an Eagles fan, I would love to see them take Bush or a LB in the 1st round. BUT as an Eagles fan, I can state with about 90% confidence that their 1st round pick will be a DL, CB or S. Have seen it so many times before - Simon, McDougal, Patterson and Bunkley. In Reid's mind there are 3 positions that are insignificant in his system - RB, WR and LB. By no coindence, these are also the Eagles weak spots (especially when they let Stallworth walk). Willie

be careful what you wish forthe detroit lions only draft RB, WR and LB.and look where that has gotten them oh yeah millen

 

[Ryan_21]

28. New England - LaMarr Woodley, LB/DE, MichiganThere isn't a WR on the board worth taking here. Woodley could rotate with Banta-Cain to form a nasty outside pass rush from LB in the New England 3-4.

I think Sidney Rice would be worth taking here. He is a monster in the mold of Randy Moss without the attitude problems. NE has two #1s, I think if they go Def on one the will go Off on the other. Rice would be a beast in NE alongside Chad Jackson and Maroney in the backfield theyd have a very good young core on offense and Brady should have about 6-8 more good years.

 

[Ryan_21]

17. Jacksonville - Ted Ginn, WR, OSUBPA. This team has no explosive players on offense aside from Jones-Drew. Finally, a WR that can stretch the field.

XBPA here is either Levi Brown or Bowe. Both are better fits than Ginn Jr. The last thing we need is another inconsistant WR with tons of potential. We need a contributer right from the start.

Bowe has been less consistent than Ginn. His case of the dropsies last year won't be forgotten because he had a couple good days in Mobile. He ended up dropping everything on Thursday and Friday and caught nothing in the game. Jax is a team full of Bowe's. I'm not arguing for Ginn, but I think that passing game could use some legit deep speed. Matt Jones ran a great 40, but he is a plodder easily thrown off his route whose 40 time isn't translating the the field. Ginn, for all his detractors, is going to be a huge headache for DCs next year. Bowe will not be considered anything to get overly concerned about. I thought Jax was happy at LT with Khalif Barnes? No? Levi is going to go around there, I agree.

I dont think the WRs in Jax were as much of a problem as the person throwing the ball to them. Look at Reggie Williams first 5 games this year w/ Leftwich, he had 300 yards and 4 TDs, then after Garrard took over, the passing game became almost non-existant outside of short dumpoffs to MJD. Jax needs to keep Leftwich as their starter or trade up for Russell or Quinn, b/c Garrard is a horrible passer IMO. When Lefty was at the QB Reggie Williams was on pace for 900+ yards and 12 TDs, so it is my opinion that with Lefty or another decent traditional dropback QB Jax will be fine with the WRs they have. Both Reggie Williams and Matt Jones are still young, both turn 24 this year and believe it or not Reggie Williams is younger than Matt Jones by a month and yet he has an extra year of NFL expericence than Jones.

 

[dparker713]

In the 20+ area on teams with no obvious needs, I think Brian Leonard will get a real serious look and may not make it out of the first round.

 

[Englishteacher]

My prediction: Whatever teams end up passing on Calvin Johnson will be regretting the decision. Guy is an uberstud and an absolute can't miss. Teams that might pass on him at #1, 2, or 3 because they have bigger needs or he doesn't fit a system or they already have a #1 WR are just the kind of teams that make another franchise's subsequent decade. I look at anyone in the Top Ten and no team has a WR that's as good or will be as good as Calvin. You pick otherwise and you deserve to lose. End of story.

EDIT: Well, in the Top 10 you have Arizona. If Denny Green were coach I'd love to see him do it though. Remember Moss, Carter, and Jake Reed? That worked out pretty well.

As for THE ENTIIRE REST OF THE LEAGUE, the ONLY other team I could see not taking Calvin Johnson #1 overall is Indy. And you know what? Marvin Harrison is a gazillion years old and could retire if the Colts win the Super Bowl. Reggie Wayne is solid but his stardom also isn't hurt by having #18 throwing the ball. How about Wayne, Calvin, and Marvin in a three wide base set and move Dallas back to TE instead of the slot?

 

[TLEF316]

a few issues for me

1) lynch wont go ahead of peterson. he is a very good RB, but i just think peterson is too big, fast and productive to ignore. add in the recent sexual assault allegation against lynch, and i think he falls into the late teens. i also dont see how atlanta could take a RB. dunn is still productive and they seem to like norwood.

2) willis' stock is slipping big time. St. louis would be making a MAJOR reach at this point

3) same thing with moses. he just had such a bad year. there is alot of talk about him falling totally out of the first round

4) no way jax takes a WR. they have spent 2 first rounders there in the past 3 years. plus lewis was a first rounder as well.

5) as much as id love to see it, i dont think carricker falls to the jets. the hype machine has been going full steam ahead in the past week or so.

6) michael bush to philly is way too "fantasy football" its not the Eagles style and is probably a reach anyways.

 

[Chaos Commish]

2) willis' stock is slipping big time. St. louis would be making a MAJOR reach at this point

My understanding is Willis separated himself from any and all LBs last week. Why do you say he's slipping big time?

 

[Fear & Loathing]

1. Detroit will trade down. Calvin Johnson is the best player in the draft.

Doesn't that make if very hard for Detroit to trade down? Cleveland would also be interested in stockpiling. Everyone knows Millen is probably not bold enough to take Calvin. His leverage is gone. I say they make Detroit pick and no suitors are that desperate to move up to #2. #3 or #4 may be a different story.

No, that makes it easy to trade down. If there are multiple teams fighting over each other to get Calvin Johnson, why would that be a bad thing for Detroit? Tampa Bay has to be interested in Johnson, so anybody wanting him would have to trade up ahead of TB.I think you're concentrating too much on leverage and not enough on the fact that Calvin Johnson is not only the best player in the draft but also a desperate need for several teams who could trade down...a few whom would be competing against each other to get that #2 pick.

 

[Sabertooth]

In Green Bay's case, I could see a safety before a corner. I don't think you use a 1st rounder on a depth guy when you are struggling to get to 8-8.

 

[Michael Fox Fan]

a few issues for me1) lynch wont go ahead of peterson. he is a very good RB, but i just think peterson is too big, fast and productive to ignore. add in the recent sexual assault allegation against lynch, and i think he falls into the late teens. i also dont see how atlanta could take a RB. dunn is still productive and they seem to like norwood.

The charges against Lynch have already been dropped, and the explanation (money-grubbing ex-girlfriend) shows that this is clearly a non-issue. Lynch may still fall into the late teens, but it will have zero to do with his recent legal concerns.Dunn is 32 years old. While his production was still strong last year, it could decline quickly once he hits the wall due to age. Norwood has looked good in a limited role - but the question with him will be "can he handle an every-down load, or is he another Tatum Bell?"

 

[Schrute]

a few issues for me1) lynch wont go ahead of peterson. he is a very good RB, but i just think peterson is too big, fast and productive to ignore. add in the recent sexual assault allegation against lynch, and i think he falls into the late teens. i also dont see how atlanta could take a RB. dunn is still productive and they seem to like norwood.

With a new coach in Atlanta, anything is possible. Dunn looked like he really started to slow down this year, and they may not be convinced that Norwood is the guy.

 

[Buddy Ball 2K3]

As an Eagles fan, I would love to see them take Bush or a LB in the 1st round. BUT as an Eagles fan, I can state with about 90% confidence that their 1st round pick will be a DL, CB or S. Have seen it so many times before - Simon, McDougal, Patterson and Bunkley.

In Reid's mind there are 3 positions that are insignificant in his system - RB, WR ???? and LB. By no coindence, these are also the Eagles weak spots (especially when they let Stallworth walk).

Willie

You sure about this ? I remember Reid spending 1sts and 2nds on WRs several times. Its very important to him. Problem is he has had a hard time picking them. I also would fall off my couch if the Eagles drafted Bush in the first. I think they are going to lean towards a safety if one is available or just take the best player on the board at that point that fits their system.

 

[ffchamp1]

2) willis' stock is slipping big time. St. louis would be making a MAJOR reach at this point

My understanding is Willis separated himself from any and all LBs last week. Why do you say he's slipping big time?

What CC meant to say was rising as he stood out all week in practice and then was DEF MVP for the Senior BowlTom

 

[ditka85]

I like the fact that according to your mock you have the Bears winning the Super Bowl.

 

[lord_helmet]

Why is it a given that the Lions will pass on Calvin Johnson, seems to me you can't let the best playmaker in the draft pass you by just because you have burned some picks at the same position in the past.

 

[H.K.]

14. Carolina - Reggie Nelson, S, FloridaReggie Nelson will be the eventual starter once Minter moves on; he has the ball hawk skills they need at safety

Two things:1) The Panthers like Nelson, but they have a lot of needs so they are kind of a crap shoot. Could go LB or OL, too. Right now, your pick seems to make the most sense for them.2) Minter may be replaced sooner than many think. It will be difficult to demote him b/c he is a good representative for the team, but he's lost a step and is liability on the field.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

TB wants Johnson or Thomas. They will not trade down out of picking Thomas. Maybe if Johnson and Thomas are gone when they pick, they would consider trading down (OKOYE!), but only if that happens.

 

[JimboJim]

Thanks for all the inputs; all will definitely help when making my next update.

 

[Barry Jive and The Uptown Five]

Always fun to read, good work.

But before you do the next one, look at the Steelers draft history with respect to OLBs. (drafthistory.com)

They do convert smaller quick college DEs to OLBs. But they do it with later picks. The only one I can remember from recent years was Alonzo Jackson of FSU (2nd RD, maybe? 3rd?). Usually they find these projects on the second day.

Carriker as a DE, a CB, WR, OT... hard to say what their going to do.

 

[ffgiant]

17. Jacksonville - Ted Ginn, WR, OSUBPA. This team has no explosive players on offense aside from Jones-Drew. Finally, a WR that can stretch the field.

XBPA here is either Levi Brown or Bowe. Both are better fits than Ginn Jr. The last thing we need is another inconsistant WR with tons of potential. We need a contributer right from the start.

Bowe has been less consistent than Ginn. His case of the dropsies last year won't be forgotten because he had a couple good days in Mobile. He ended up dropping everything on Thursday and Friday and caught nothing in the game. Jax is a team full of Bowe's. I'm not arguing for Ginn, but I think that passing game could use some legit deep speed. Matt Jones ran a great 40, but he is a plodder easily thrown off his route whose 40 time isn't translating the the field. Ginn, for all his detractors, is going to be a huge headache for DCs next year. Bowe will not be considered anything to get overly concerned about. I thought Jax was happy at LT with Khalif Barnes? No? Levi is going to go around there, I agree.

Seriously, Jax is not Detroit. They picked 2 1st round WRs and 1 1st TE last 3 years, this year another 1st round WR? Last I heard, they still got the same head coarch and GM, if they want keep their jobs, pick some other positional player.

 

[Mr. Brownstone]

17. Jacksonville - Ted Ginn, WR, OSUBPA. This team has no explosive players on offense aside from Jones-Drew. Finally, a WR that can stretch the field.

XBPA here is either Levi Brown or Bowe. Both are better fits than Ginn Jr. The last thing we need is another inconsistant WR with tons of potential. We need a contributer right from the start.

Bowe has been less consistent than Ginn. His case of the dropsies last year won't be forgotten because he had a couple good days in Mobile. He ended up dropping everything on Thursday and Friday and caught nothing in the game. Jax is a team full of Bowe's. I'm not arguing for Ginn, but I think that passing game could use some legit deep speed. Matt Jones ran a great 40, but he is a plodder easily thrown off his route whose 40 time isn't translating the the field. Ginn, for all his detractors, is going to be a huge headache for DCs next year. Bowe will not be considered anything to get overly concerned about. I thought Jax was happy at LT with Khalif Barnes? No? Levi is going to go around there, I agree.

Seriously, Jax is not Detroit. They picked 2 1st round WRs and 1 1st TE last 3 years, this year another 1st round WR? Last I heard, they still got the same head coarch and GM, if they want keep their jobs, pick some other positional player.

There aren't many holes on this team, but there is one at WR. They have no one who can strech the field and it created big problems this year. If a WR is their BAP when their pick rolls around, then they'll most likely draft a WR. This philosophy, with few exceptions, has been in place ever since James Harris took over the GM duties.

 

[JimboJim]

a few issues for me1) lynch wont go ahead of peterson. he is a very good RB, but i just think peterson is too big, fast and productive to ignore. add in the recent sexual assault allegation against lynch, and i think he falls into the late teens. i also dont see how atlanta could take a RB. dunn is still productive and they seem to like norwood.2) willis' stock is slipping big time. St. louis would be making a MAJOR reach at this point3) same thing with moses. he just had such a bad year. there is alot of talk about him falling totally out of the first round4) no way jax takes a WR. they have spent 2 first rounders there in the past 3 years. plus lewis was a first rounder as well. 5) as much as id love to see it, i dont think carricker falls to the jets. the hype machine has been going full steam ahead in the past week or so. 6) michael bush to philly is way too "fantasy football" its not the Eagles style and is probably a reach anyways.

1) Don't get me wrong, I like Peterson, a lot. However, the big/fast/productive argument is relative. Lynch and Peterson both weigh in around 215-200, though Lynch is 3 inches shorter. Go look up their stats over the last two seasons. No doubt, AD had an amazing freshman year, but over the last two seasons Lynch has outperformed Peterson in rushing yards, average per carry and receptions. Additionally, Lynch has been far more durable. I think this one will be a lot clser call than most people do.2) Please elaborate; I personally haven't found any info supporting Willis' stock dropping.3) I won't argue with you on this one; I've seen a lot of "draft pros" down on Adams. 0 sacks in your last season will do that. I believe if he works out well, a number of teams will view him as a 3-4 edge pass rusher. Maybe not on the level of a DeMarcus Ware, but Adalius Thomas is a good comparison. With the way the game is played today, a player that can effectively rush the passer on every down, whether from DE or standing up, is always going to be a hot commodity.4) Do you think an NFL front office will look at a player and say "he may be the best player on the board at a need position, but we can't take him because we already drafted a couple of WRs in the first round in the last five years." I don't buy that argument.5) Depending on how things play out over the next few weeks/months, I could defenitely see Carriker moving up.6) This was not at all meant to be a "fantasy football" pick. Philly played some of their best overall ball in years last season with Garcia when they ran the ball more. I think they need to stick with that approach in the future. I also think that Westbrook isn't a 300 carry a season back. If they can bring in a bruiser like Bush to get ~10 carries a game, that would be huge. In addition, if Bush turns out to be more of an H-back, that just gives McNabb an additional option in the short passing game.

 

[TLEF316]

2) willis' stock is slipping big time. St. louis would be making a MAJOR reach at this point

My understanding is Willis separated himself from any and all LBs last week. Why do you say he's slipping big time?

my understanding is that this is a very weak LB class. Although willis may be the best, alot of "experts" including Kiper, have him slipping to the 2nd.perhaps "slipping big time" was a little much, but i still think he'd be a major reach for St. louisedit: ESPN's Todd Mcshay has him dropping into the mid 20's, which i think seems a bit more realistic. I just cant see him going in the top 15 picks. I think the value is at other positions.

 

[JimboJim]

TB wants Johnson or Thomas. They will not trade down out of picking Thomas. Maybe if Johnson and Thomas are gone when they pick, they would consider trading down (OKOYE!), but only if that happens.

I'm interested as to why you say this; Johnson I can see; Thomas I question. Their two tackles, Trueblood and Davis are both fairly young. Davis has started all 16 games the last two seasons and Trueblood is too young to give up on. DE is a problem though; Greg Spires is on the wrong side of 30; I doubt Rice is back and White didn't get a lot of pressure on the QB last season. Tampa Bay was second to last in the NFL in sacks last season and in the bottom third in defending the pass.

 

[TLEF316]

a few issues for me1) lynch wont go ahead of peterson. he is a very good RB, but i just think peterson is too big, fast and productive to ignore. add in the recent sexual assault allegation against lynch, and i think he falls into the late teens. i also dont see how atlanta could take a RB. dunn is still productive and they seem to like norwood.2) willis' stock is slipping big time. St. louis would be making a MAJOR reach at this point3) same thing with moses. he just had such a bad year. there is alot of talk about him falling totally out of the first round4) no way jax takes a WR. they have spent 2 first rounders there in the past 3 years. plus lewis was a first rounder as well. 5) as much as id love to see it, i dont think carricker falls to the jets. the hype machine has been going full steam ahead in the past week or so. 6) michael bush to philly is way too "fantasy football" its not the Eagles style and is probably a reach anyways.

1) Don't get me wrong, I like Peterson, a lot. However, the big/fast/productive argument is relative. Lynch and Peterson both weigh in around 215-200, though Lynch is 3 inches shorter. Go look up their stats over the last two seasons. No doubt, AD had an amazing freshman year, but over the last two seasons Lynch has outperformed Peterson in rushing yards, average per carry and receptions. Additionally, Lynch has been far more durable. I think this one will be a lot clser call than most people do.2) Please elaborate; I personally haven't found any info supporting Willis' stock dropping.3) I won't argue with you on this one; I've seen a lot of "draft pros" down on Adams. 0 sacks in your last season will do that. I believe if he works out well, a number of teams will view him as a 3-4 edge pass rusher. Maybe not on the level of a DeMarcus Ware, but Adalius Thomas is a good comparison. With the way the game is played today, a player that can effectively rush the passer on every down, whether from DE or standing up, is always going to be a hot commodity.4) Do you think an NFL front office will look at a player and say "he may be the best player on the board at a need position, but we can't take him because we already drafted a couple of WRs in the first round in the last five years." I don't buy that argument.5) Depending on how things play out over the next few weeks/months, I could defenitely see Carriker moving up.6) This was not at all meant to be a "fantasy football" pick. Philly played some of their best overall ball in years last season with Garcia when they ran the ball more. I think they need to stick with that approach in the future. I also think that Westbrook isn't a 300 carry a season back. If they can bring in a bruiser like Bush to get ~10 carries a game, that would be huge. In addition, if Bush turns out to be more of an H-back, that just gives McNabb an additional option in the short passing game.

1) Fair enough. Ill admit im a big peterson fan, and havent seen a ton of lynch(probably 7-8 games). I definetly like him, but i dont think he is a top 10 guy. He has solid measurables and was productive, but im just not a huge fan. Cant really explain why. I just think peterson is better, despite his upright running style. 2) i elaborated on my willis comment above. I admit that "slipping big time" was too much. But i still dont see him cracking the top 15. 3) yeah. thats pretty much how i feel. He'll post good combine numbers and may project better as a standup pash rusher. But he'll still slip because of his horrible senior year4) I dont think the jags are giving up on lewis, Reg. Williams and matt jones yet. I just cant see them taking another WR in the first. i guess it's possible, but id be surprised.5) carricker is gonna go high. He's looking like a prototypical 3-4 DE at this point. 6) i think we all know that the eagles are better when they establish the run, but im not sure reid does. I think they are still a passing team(especially if mcnabb comes back strong. ) Id actually be very impressed if the eagles address the need for a bruising RB this offseason. I just dont see it happening in the first round of the draft. i could definetly see them going LB here. Trotter isnt getting any younger

 

[Chaos Commish]

2) willis' stock is slipping big time. St. louis would be making a MAJOR reach at this point

My understanding is Willis separated himself from any and all LBs last week. Why do you say he's slipping big time?

my understanding is that this is a very weak LB class. Although willis may be the best, alot of "experts" including Kiper, have him slipping to the 2nd.perhaps "slipping big time" was a little much, but i still think he'd be a major reach for St. louisedit: ESPN's Todd Mcshay has him dropping into the mid 20's, which i think seems a bit more realistic. I just cant see him going in the top 15 picks. I think the value is at other positions.

Understood. This LB class is a weakness of the draft. But Willis isn't part of that problem. From a very good source, I am told he graded out equal to Ryans had he declared a year ago. Six LBs went in the first 22 picks a year ago then Ryans opened the 2nd round followed by two more. We won't see anything like 9 LBs in 35 picks next year. Maybe as few as 3. BUT, Willis should be a first rounder. I agree top 15 is pushing it, but I'm expecting some very impressive workouts making the St. Louis thing possible.

 

[dparker713]

1) Don't get me wrong, I like Peterson, a lot. However, the big/fast/productive argument is relative. Lynch and Peterson both weigh in around 215-200, though Lynch is 3 inches shorter. Go look up their stats over the last two seasons. No doubt, AD had an amazing freshman year, but over the last two seasons Lynch has outperformed Peterson in rushing yards, average per carry and receptions. Additionally, Lynch has been far more durable. I think this one will be a lot clser call than most people do.6) This was not at all meant to be a "fantasy football" pick. Philly played some of their best overall ball in years last season with Garcia when they ran the ball more. I think they need to stick with that approach in the future. I also think that Westbrook isn't a 300 carry a season back. If they can bring in a bruiser like Bush to get ~10 carries a game, that would be huge. In addition, if Bush turns out to be more of an H-back, that just gives McNabb an additional option in the short passing game.

1) What the stats dont show, the films do. AP stands out in the same way that McFadden does. They're special and its easy to see. Also, AP fits the Texans' one cut blocking scheme perfectly. The knock of course is his durability and about the only reason he'd fall, but none of his injuries should have lingering effects.6) Why spend a first rounder on Bush if all they want is a 10 carry a game back? They can keep Buckhalter or get any number of journeymen or later round guys to fill that role. And considering that Westbrook is a player they should be figuring out more and more ways to get the ball, it would seem silly to try to draft someone so high to potentially cut into his touches.

 

[JimboJim]

2/12 Update - A couple of tweaks here and there, but overall no major changes. I do have Peterson being taken before Houston picks and now Joe Thomas doesn't last to Arizona.

Overall, I try to make my mock draft picks based on a combination of team needs and how I rank the players overall. You'll notice I have some picks in here that at first don't seem to make a lot of sense (AD to Minny), but I believe sometimes a player is just too good to pass on based on a team already being solid at a given position.

1. Oakland - JaMarcus Russel, QB, LSU

Golden rule of the draft is never pass on a possible franchise QB unless you already have one; the Raiders don't. I chose Russell over Quinn based on his athletic upside and the leadership/maturity he displayed throughout last season. Russell may not be as polished as Quinn, but he seems to possesses more of a "field-general" quality, as evidenced in the bowl game against Notre Dame.

2. Detriot - Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame

See above; Jon Kitna was decent last season, but he still made too many mistakes (22 ints) and had trouble converting on third down. Quinn was a superstar his entire collegiate career; the bowl game against LSU definitely dropped his stock, but he should be evaluated on his entire body of work. The popular pick at #2 seems to be Joe Thomas, but I argue that for a couple of reasons. Would they draft Thomas at 2 to be a RT? If not, they would have to move Jeff Backus from LT to RT, and then move Jonathon Scott from RT inside to guard. Not impossible, but doesn't seem to fit a need. Gaines Adams, a complete DE, would be my second choice here. However, when it comes down to it, an upgrade at QB will do as much for the defense and the offensive line as would either Thomas or Adams.

3. Tampa Bay - Calvin Johnson, WR, GT

I flipped a coin, and it came up Tampa Bay (tails). I don't think there's any question Tampa would take Johnson if he were here. He fills a need at a position where Galloway is getting older and Clayton has underachieved and fought through injuries. If I had Cleveland winning the toss, I would also have them taking Johnson. You can't pass on the best player in the draft.

4. Cleveland - Joe Thomas, T, Wisconsin

With Johnson and both QBs off the board, this pick comes down to Branch Peterson and Thomas. When evaluating these three players for Cleveland I looked at three things. Which player will have the most long-term impact; which position is the hardest to fill, and which player is the best prospect. Best prospect, I say Peterson. Most long term impact, I say Thomas. A Franchise tackle can play at a high level for 10+ years (Jones, Ogden, Pace...). Hardest position to fill, once again I go with Thomas. Franchise tackles are harder to find than stud RBs or space eating DTs. 2 marks for Thomas; he's the pick here.

5. Arizona - LaRon Landry, S, LSU

The Arizona Cardinals had a decent number of sacks last season (38) and finished with strong numbers against the run. There biggest weakness was giving up the big play in the passing game. Bertrand Berry and Chike Okeafer aren't the best DEs in the league, but they're not the worst either. Drafting Jamaal Anderson or Gaines Adams would certainly upgrade their line, but it wouldn't solve this teams major problem, especially if Robert Griffith retires. LaRon Landry is a tall lean FS prospect who could team with Adrian Wilson to form the best safety combo in the league. Additionally, Landry's presence would go a long way towards taking pressure off the young Antrel Rolle and whoever mans the other corner spot. Some will say this is too high for Landry; NFL teams don't think that way. He won't be there when they pick in the second and I don't project trades.

6. Washington - Jamaal Anderson, DE, Arkansas

I see Anderson as being a prospect similar to Richard Seymour; both are large DEs with excellent pass rush skills. This would fill the need of both a pass-rushing and run-stopping lineman for the Redskins. Branch and Adams are both considerations, but in the end, I feel Anderson is the best D-lineman on the board.

7. Minnesota - Adrian Peterson, RB, Oklahoma

BPA by far. Hear me out; we all want to pick players for teams based on what we think are needs. We look at the Vikings and say they have no good WRs, they need a QB… If I was the coach of the Vikings and knew I would be heading into the season with either Tavarius Jackson or a lesser tier free agent QB, I would want to lean on my running game as much as possible. Chester Taylor ended up with 1216 total yards last season, but look at his game logs. He had 7 out of 15 games where he averaged 3.5 yards or less a carry. Somewhat deceiving numbers. AD is a big time power runner that would absolutely crush people running behind McKinnie and Hutch and take a lot of pressure off whoever the passer is.

8. Houston - Marshawn Lynch, RB, Cal

The Texans need a playmaker other than AJ and I don't believe they can plan on having a healthy Davis/Williams/Whatever back. Lynch is a compact, slashing runner with speed, vision, toughness and durability. He can also catch the ball, something important in the Texans offense. The Texans have never had much of a problem racking up yards in the running game; put a premier prospect like Lynch back there and I believe this entire offense gets a significant boost.

9. Miami - Alan Branch, DT, Michigan

The Dolphins couldn't be happier; biggest need meets one of the top 2-3 BPAs.

10. Atlanta - Gaines Adams, DE, Clemson

Patrick Kearney may be gone, but even if he isn't, Adams still fills a need. A healthy D-line isn't something the Falcons have had in a number of years. Adams should team with Abraham to form a tenacious outside pass rush. This will ease up pressure on the secondary.

11. San Fran - Dwayne Jarrett, WR, USC

I absolutely love Jarret and think all of the Mike Williams/Keyshawn Johnson comparisons are ridiculous. In my opinion, he's somewhat similar athletically to Plaxico Burress; the main difference is Jarrett doesn't have the attitude. Tall, great body control and a leaper. He needs to work on his drops and play a little more physical, but he could end up being just as good of a play as Calvin Johnson. With Alex Smith, Frank Gore and Jarrett to play with, my guess is Norv Turner will be having Troy/Emmitt/Irvin flashbacks.

12. Buffalo - Amobi Okoye, DT, Louisville

Stopping the run has been a problem ever since Pat Williams left. Okoye is a little undersized, but because of his age, I believe he has room to grow.

13. St. Louis - Pat Willis, LB, Ole Miss

It seems like the Rams have been looking for a playmaking LB for years now. They need a defensive leader and someone that stuff the run and cover RBs and TEs out of the backfield. Willis appears to be the best in a fairly mediocre LB crop.

14. Carolina - Reggie Nelos, S, Florida

Reggie Nelson will be the eventual starter once Minter moves on; he has the ball hawk skills they need at safety.

15. Pittsburgh - Jarvis Moss, DE, Florida

Moss could play OLB in an "elephant" role similar to that of Ware or McGinest; situational pass-rusher to begin with. Other option might be to draft Levi Brown and move Starks inside, if he doesn't leave in free-agency.

16. Green Bay - Darelle Revis, CB, Pittsburgh

Both the top RBs are gone, and while Ginn would be tempting, WR isn't that big of a concern. Driver is top-notch, Jennings played well as a rookie, and they can sign a free-agent to be the #3. Plus, Koren Robinson might be back. There is no depth after Harris and Woodson at CB.

17. Jacksonville - Ted Ginn, WR, Ohio State

BPA. This team has no explosive players on offense aside from Jones-Drew. Finally, a WR that can stretch the field.

18. Cincinatti - Adam Carriker, DE, Nebraska

I stole this pick from NFL Draft Countdown, but it really seems to make sense. Carriker is a big 6-6, 300 lb D-lineman who could either rush the passer from inside or fill in at DE if Justin Smith leaves. Carriker saw his stock jump significantly at the Senior Bowl.

19. Tennessee - Levi Brown, OT, Penn State

They would have loved to get one of the top three WRs, but with them gone and a top tier OT falling into their laps, the choice is easy. Start building from the trenches out.

20. New York (G) - Paul Posluzny, LB, Penn State

Back to back Penn State picks. Puz would immediately help out a LB core that missed a ton of time due to injuries over the last couple of years.

21. Denver - Michael Griffin, S, Texas

Some additional help for the Denver secondary. A DT would be the best option, but with Tyler, Okoye and Branch all gone, there are none worth taking here. Although they tragically lost Darrent Williams, don't expect them to draft another CB; safety is a greater need and Griffin is a playmaker.

22. Dallas - Aaron Ross, CB, Texas

With Wade Phillips coming to town and the Cowboys staying in the 3-4, shoring up that secondary will be task #1. Anthony Henry will be moved to FS and while Aaron Glenn is a good nickel CB, he's not a starter anymore. Ross burst on to the scene in 2006 winning the Jim Thorpe award. He has good size at 6-1, 190 lbs, but is still raw in terms of technique. I think Leon Hall is more refined at the position, but that would be like replacing Anthony Henry with another Anthony Henry. I think the mover to a faster, more dynamic corner to pair with Newman is the right move.

23. Kansas City - Dwayne Bowe, WR, LSU

The Chiefs take a shot at finally getting a true #1 WR with a guy that has been rising as of late. I'm not sold on Bowe personally. He drops too many balls and doesn't run great routes, but overall, he has the best skill set of any WR left on the board.

24. New England - Leion Hall, CB, Michigan

The Pats luck out again. Hall will be a good corner across from Samuel.

25. New York (J) - Victor Abiamiri, DE, Notre Dame

An imposing DE who can at the very least share reps with Ellis and Thomas and keep the D-line fresh. His Jr. and Sr. seasons, he combined for 30 tackles for loss and 18.5 sacks. Looking up and down this roster, the Jets are fairly solid across the board.

26. Philadelphia - Brandon Merriweather, S, Miami

Brian Dawkins is getting old and the other safety spot was a mess last season. I believe Merriweather will grade out high at the combine and might even jump Griffin and/or Nelson (probably not). This pick would fill a need and still be taking one of the BPAs.

27. New Orleans - Lawrence Timmons, LB, Florida State

Scott Fujita and Scott Shanle are not long term solutions at LB; hopefully Timmons is.

28. New England - Quentin Moses, DE/LB, Georgia

There isn't a WR on the board worth taking here; especially after they drafted Chad Jackson last season. Moses could rotate with Banta-Cain to form a nasty outside pass rush from LB in the New England 3-4.

29. Baltimore - Ben Grubbs, G, Auburn

I really like Grubbs, but the market for Guards just isn't there. A perfect fit for the Baltimore Ravens.

30. San Diego - Robert Meachem, WR, Tennessee

Meachem is the burner on the outside this team doesn't have. If they don't take a WR here, expect them to go OT with either Ugoh or Staley.

31. Chicago - Jon Beason, LB, Miami

Beason is a little fireball that would fit this attacking defensive scheme perfectly. Briggs may leave in FA, but even if he doesn't, Beason would probably still be an upgrade over Hunter Hillenmeyer, who was often the focal point of opposing offenses attack plans.

32. Indianapolis - David Irons, CB, Auburn

The Indy defensive backfield is a mess aside from Sanders. If they can develop Jackson, these two could make their pass defense respectable.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Overall, I like it.

And if the Vikings were to be able to get Peterson, I'll have to change my shorts. Your analysis of Taylor is right on. He's a good back, but a great one like Peterson would have put up MUCH better numbers.

 

[Chaos Commish]

2. Detriot - Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame

Sometimes smokescreens are real, but there was a ring of honesty in Martz' comments about a QB here. I even read he was chastised for his honesty. Quinn could be a bargaining chip even if they don't want him. Russell certainly could if the Raiders pass. But there seems almost no chance Detroit addresses QB early this year.It's also a bit of an expedient to get Quinn out of the way this early and move along without him. It's probably far more realistic to project Detroit to do something else, almost anything else, and then struggle to place Quinn.

 

[saintfool]

27. New Orleans - Lawrence Timmons, LB, Florida StateScott Fujita and Scott Shanle are not long term solutions at LB; hopefully Timmons is.

shanle signed a 4 year extension last week. with the starting LB's locked up, i have to think that the saints focus will be now CB, DE or DT in R1. Hollis Thomas is a free agent and if they don't make a play to re-sign him then it becomes a real position of need and he's older, which doesn't make him a long term solution. Grant could leave via FA. That then leaves the backfield - McKenzie, Craft and Thomas - to address. Thomas is clearly the weak link among the 3.

 

[Chaos Commish]

I would also like to be on the record claiming Charles Johnson is very high on draft boards already. So when people start talking about his great rise up in the draft (like Ware who also was always very high), you should know that it's just a rise in media perception. He is top 15 right now. I cannot imagine Moss, Abiamiri or Moses going before him. Anderson and Carriker, perhaps. Adams is a maybe and I think he's slipping in the comparison. If you replaced Moss with Johnson and left the comments the same, I would like it. But good lord, please don't let the Steelers get Johnson.

Aside from those two complaints this was a fun mock. Jag fans will not like Ginn and brag about their crappy receivers being adequate, but they're wrong.

Irons is a surpprising name in the first round, and I sure like a few corners better, but he has big fans, so I like the projection. I never believed Kelly Jennings would make the first last year. Of course Seattle shoulda listened and took Marshall, but that's why I like the Irons projection. Never know and his name is rarely seen so high.

 

[JimboJim]

2. Detriot - Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame

Sometimes smokescreens are real, but there was a ring of honesty in Martz' comments about a QB here. I even read he was chastised for his honesty. Quinn could be a bargaining chip even if they don't want him. Russell certainly could if the Raiders pass. But there seems almost no chance Detroit addresses QB early this year.It's also a bit of an expedient to get Quinn out of the way this early and move along without him. It's probably far more realistic to project Detroit to do something else, almost anything else, and then struggle to place Quinn.

I don't see what the knock is on Quinn. Not saying that the Lions will definately take him, but I think they would be foolish to pass him up; Cleveland too, if he is there. Quinn is a big strong pocket passer in the mold of Carson Plamer. He played at a high level for three season, throwing for 32/7 and 37/7 (TDs/Ints) his Jr. and Sr. years. He's been extremely durable and consistent. All of this being said, it's not like he comes from a pass-happy offense that churns out QBs. Prior to Quinn, the Irish wouldn't have conceived of passing 450 times in a season. Having such a good QB allowed them to do that. If Brady had gone out and thrown for 3/0 instaed of 2/2 and led Notre Dame over LSU, I don't even thing there is a question that Oakland taked him #1 overall.

 

[Obie Wan]

2. Detriot - Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame

Sometimes smokescreens are real, but there was a ring of honesty in Martz' comments about a QB here. I even read he was chastised for his honesty. Quinn could be a bargaining chip even if they don't want him. Russell certainly could if the Raiders pass. But there seems almost no chance Detroit addresses QB early this year.It's also a bit of an expedient to get Quinn out of the way this early and move along without him. It's probably far more realistic to project Detroit to do something else, almost anything else, and then struggle to place Quinn.

I don't see what the knock is on Quinn. Not saying that the Lions will definately take him, but I think they would be foolish to pass him up; Cleveland too, if he is there. Quinn is a big strong pocket passer in the mold of Carson Plamer. He played at a high level for three season, throwing for 32/7 and 37/7 (TDs/Ints) his Jr. and Sr. years. He's been extremely durable and consistent. All of this being said, it's not like he comes from a pass-happy offense that churns out QBs. Prior to Quinn, the Irish wouldn't have conceived of passing 450 times in a season. Having such a good QB allowed them to do that. If Brady had gone out and thrown for 3/0 instaed of 2/2 and led Notre Dame over LSU, I don't even thing there is a question that Oakland taked him #1 overall.

The kid from Hawaii threw more times than that- but he's not being considered in teh top 5 either.Quinn benefitted from Charlie Weis designing the offense- but he has still to win a big game against a quality opponent.

 

[Chaos Commish]

2. Detriot - Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame

Sometimes smokescreens are real, but there was a ring of honesty in Martz' comments about a QB here. I even read he was chastised for his honesty. Quinn could be a bargaining chip even if they don't want him. Russell certainly could if the Raiders pass. But there seems almost no chance Detroit addresses QB early this year.It's also a bit of an expedient to get Quinn out of the way this early and move along without him. It's probably far more realistic to project Detroit to do something else, almost anything else, and then struggle to place Quinn.

I don't see what the knock is on Quinn. Not saying that the Lions will definately take him, but I think they would be foolish to pass him up; Cleveland too, if he is there. Quinn is a big strong pocket passer in the mold of Carson Plamer. He played at a high level for three season, throwing for 32/7 and 37/7 (TDs/Ints) his Jr. and Sr. years. He's been extremely durable and consistent. All of this being said, it's not like he comes from a pass-happy offense that churns out QBs. Prior to Quinn, the Irish wouldn't have conceived of passing 450 times in a season. Having such a good QB allowed them to do that. If Brady had gone out and thrown for 3/0 instaed of 2/2 and led Notre Dame over LSU, I don't even thing there is a question that Oakland taked him #1 overall.

I'm not knocking Quinn. I think he has a good shot at being an excellent QB. He deserves a franchise grade. Leinart and Cutler had similar grades and both fell a bit. I think that is the likely scenario for Quinn this year. I was commenting on what leaked out of Detroit (no need for a QB here). When I hear that kind of stuff, first hand, from an offensive coordinator, I apply it to projecting picks. That's all.