Mock Draft - The "Now for something completely (1 Viewer)

[Andy Dufresne]

1 Houston - Reggie Bush

Debated enough. No brainer.

2 New Orleans - D'Brickashaw Ferguson

The Mario Williams talk is a smokescreen. Bookends of Ferguson and Brown protect Brees for many years.

3 Tennessee - Matt Leinart

I believe McNair will be let go and the Titans will pick the more "NFL ready" of the top QBs.

4 N.Y. Jets - Mario Williams

Would seem to be a better fit in a 4-3, but the Jets will probably employ both 4-3 and 3-4 and line up Williams everywhere.

5 Green Bay - Vince Young

A shock, I know. But really, does Aaron Rogers have ANY chance of succeeding in Brett Favre's shadow? No way. Replacing a legend is something only another "legend" (albiet at the college level) can do.

Vince Young reminds me a TON of a young Brett Favre. Can make plays with his feet, tremendous leader, but throws too many picks and seems to have trouble reading defenses. I wish I could find a college scouting report on Favre. I bet they would look nearly identical.

It seems a classic Sherlockian case of the dog that didn't bark. The Pack isn't talking about Young hoping nobody leapfrogs them.

6 San Francisco - Vernon Davis

Even with Hawk on the board, the 49ers go with the freak. This team sucks all over, but offense is worse.

7 Oakland - A.J. Hawk

Al Davis nearly breaks his hip when Hawk falls in his lap. A linebacking corps of Kirk Morrison, Danny Clark, and A.J. Hawk is absolutely SICK!

8 Buffalo - Winston Justice

After his combine, and the signing of Larry Triplett, Ngata is bypassed in order to shore up the sorry o-line.

9 Detroit - Michael Huff

Good lord this team is bad. Pick anyone left on the board and it would improve this team. But Huff helps out a horrendous secondary which is probably the biggest need.

10 Arizona - Haloti Ngata

The Cardinals were the 28th ranked team versus the run last year. 'Nuff said.

11 St. Louis - Ernie Sims

There are a ton of needs on defense. Corner also makes sense (probably more), but adding Sims to Witherspoon ups the talent level tremendously over Dexter Coakley. Corner can be addressed in the 2nd.

12 Cleveland - Manny Lawson

Browns fans cheer and Cowboy fans dispair. Lawson is a tremendous addition to the 3-4 and coupled with McGinnest shore up what was possibly the weakest area on the team last year. Bunkley is considered, but the stopgap (literally) of Ted Washington is good enough for now.

13 Baltimore - Jay Cutler

I still think that McNair will somehow be acquired after his release from the Titans, so this pick is muddied a bit. Regardless of what he thinks, though, McNair only has one or two more years left.

14 Philadelphia - Broderick Bunkley

The loss of Corey Simon KILLED this defense last year. Bunkley fills the most major need.

15 Denver (from Atlanta) - Lendale White

I think getting a beatdown at the USC Pro-Day really opened White's eyes to the fact that if he's going to play in the NFL, he actually has to try. And once again, Shanahan will try to prove how smart he is.

16 Miami - Chad Jackson

They SHOULD draft a tackle here, but the temptation of adding the local kid that's shot up the charts as a compliment to rising star Chambers is too much to pass up. Let's be honest here, Marty Booker?

17 Minnesota - Chad Greenway

Combine numbers be damned. The man was uber-productive in college and will make a fine Tampa 2 linebacker. So now the Vikings have at least one linebacker on their roster. I hope they add more.

18 Dallas - Kamerion Wimbley

Losing out on Sims and Lawson hurts. But Wimbley can hardly be considered a "consolation" as he has the potential to be an impact 3-4 OLB in his own right. Thomas Howard could also be the pick here.

19 San Diego - Tye Hill

They added Marlon McCree to play safety, so while that may have been the pick originally, they now turn to corner, another area of glaring need. Picking the fastest guy in the draft is a bonus.

20 Kansas City - Jimmy Williams

D-Tackle and Linebacker are also needed, but the value represented here is too much value to pass up. LB or DT will be the 2nd round selection.

21 New England - DeAngelo Williams

Why do the Patriots always get such late round value for their picks? Dillon hit the wall last year and Faulk is not a full time starter. This is too obvious at this spot.

22 Denver (from Washington) - Leonard Pope

They let Putzier go because they knew they could replace him in the draft. They need to improve the D-line, but there are too many question marks at that position at this spot in the draft.

23 Tampa Bay - Marcus McNeill/Eric Winston

Flip a coin. Both coming back from injury. Either could be dominant if they overcame it.

24 Cincinnati - Jason Allen

Adding Sam Adams frees them up to make this pick. Dexter Jackson is not what he once was.

25 N.Y. Giants - Gabe Watson

"Motor" this. "Desire" that. I'm pretty sure Tom Coughlin can find ways to keep him motivated. The Giants were stupid in letting Kendrick Clancy go as this spot should have been used on linebacker.

26 Chicago - Bobby Carpenter

They are disappointed to not get a playmaking TE in the first. They seem to be sold on Justin Gage or Mark Bradley emerging as a viable #2. That thinking does explain why their offense is always terrible. Adding Carpenter to Urlacher makes the opposing NFC North offenses

27 Carolina - Donte Whitner

Thomas Davis will be moved to OLB. Whitner takes his place at the SS spot.

28 Jacksonville - Thomas Howard

Overpaying for Brian Williams to start opposite Rashean Mathis frees them up to address the linebacker corps. They could take Maroney here.

29 N.Y. Jets (from Denver) - Laurence Maroney

Curtis Martin isn't ageless. Maroney is TREMENDOUS value here for the Jets. O-line will be addressed with the early 2nd round pick.

30 Indianapolis - DeMeco Ryans

For the value, they HAVE to go linebacker here. Ummm, , unless they go o-line, in which case they take the player they like best out of the top guards as they cannot get destroyed in the playoffs again.

31 Seattle - Santonio Holmes

Jackson's knee is certainly an issue. Beyond him, there is nobody near a #1 starter quality.

32 Pittsburgh - Pat Watkins

A bit of a reach in the first, but with the "loss" of Chris Hope, Watkins is probably the best "center field" type free safety the Steelers are going to find, which allows Polamalu to roam even more dangerously.

 

[brewer]

Lots of views for no replies.

for being different.

Questions, why do you think Denver would prefer Lendale over DeAngelo?

Something about Jay Cutler to Baltimore bothers me but I suppose that could happen.

I don't think the Steelers will take a safety at the end of the first. I think that pick will be DE or OG.

 

[jhexel]

Lots of views for no replies.

for being different.

Questions, why do you think Denver would prefer Lendale over DeAngelo?

Something about Jay Cutler to Baltimore bothers me but I suppose that could happen.

I don't think the Steelers will take a safety at the end of the first. I think that pick will be DE or OG.

Especially after all of the Cutler = Boller comments on this board.Anyway - good draft...nice to see one not so cookie-cutter.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Lots of views for no replies.

for being different.

People are dumbfounded by my out-of-the-box thinking.

Questions, why do you think Denver would prefer Lendale over DeAngelo?

Because they already have a DeAngelo-esque back in Bell. Now, Williams >> Bell, but that's the line of thinking anyway.

Something about Jay Cutler to Baltimore bothers me but I suppose that could happen.

Me too. The Ravens and the Eagles are the hardest to pick for.

 

[Getinthemix]

Nice Andy.

There are always shocking picks every year. That is why the people who flame for "the Team X will not draft player Y" is so ridiculous. Especially with the talent this year. I can't wait for the draft.

 

[brewer]

Me too. The Ravens and the Eagles are the hardest to pick for.

I've actually been leaning toward the Ravens taking Jimmy Williams and letting him play safety. Reed and Williams lurking back there

 

[Chaos Commish]

5 Green Bay - Vince Young

A shock, I know. But really, does Aaron Rogers have ANY chance of succeeding in Brett Favre's shadow? No way. Replacing a legend is something only another "legend" (albiet at the college level) can do.

Vince Young reminds me a TON of a young Brett Favre. Can make plays with his feet, tremendous leader, but throws too many picks and seems to have trouble reading defenses. I wish I could find a college scouting report on Favre. I bet they would look nearly identical.

It seems a classic Sherlockian case of the dog that didn't bark. The Pack isn't talking about Young hoping nobody leapfrogs them.

IRT, Young after his pro day, a high ranking Packer exec said, "You don't pass on Michael Jordan." He even referred to Sam Bowie. You stole my thunder with this projection. It's been in my next mock since last week. I'm trying to finish the commentary to get it posted.

 

[Chaos Commish]

13 Baltimore - Jay Cutler

I still think that McNair will somehow be acquired after his release from the Titans, so this pick is muddied a bit. Regardless of what he thinks, though, McNair only has one or two more years left.

EG had him to Denver. It's so hard to find a home for him, that I think he may free fall on draft day.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

5 Green Bay - Vince Young

A shock, I know.  But really, does Aaron Rogers have ANY chance of succeeding in Brett Favre's shadow?  No way.  Replacing a legend is something only another "legend" (albiet at the college level) can do.

Vince Young reminds me a TON of a young Brett Favre.  Can make plays with his feet, tremendous leader, but throws too many picks and seems to have trouble reading defenses. I wish I could find a college scouting report on Favre. I bet they would look nearly identical.

It seems a classic Sherlockian case of the dog that didn't bark.  The Pack isn't talking about Young hoping nobody leapfrogs them.

IRT, Young after his pro day, a high ranking Packer exec said, "You don't pass on Michael Jordan." He even referred to Sam Bowie. You stole my thunder with this projection. It's been in my next mock since last week. I'm trying to finish the commentary to get it posted.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

13 Baltimore - Jay Cutler

I still think that McNair will somehow be acquired after his release from the Titans, so this pick is muddied a bit.  Regardless of what he thinks, though, McNair only has one or two more years left.

EG had him to Denver. It's so hard to find a home for him, that I think he may free fall on draft day.

If they don't get Schaub, it's inconceivable to me that the Vikings wouldn't select him.Edit: I meant Schaub.

 

[Chaos Commish]

16 Miami - Chad Jackson

They SHOULD draft a tackle here, but the temptation of adding the local kid that's shot up the charts as a compliment to rising star Chambers is too much to pass up. Let's be honest here, Marty Booker?

31 Seattle - Santonio Holmes

Jackson's knee is certainly an issue. Beyond him, there is nobody near a #1 starter quality.

32 Pittsburgh - Pat Watkins

A bit of a reach in the first, but with the "loss" of Chris Hope, Watkins is probably the best "center field" type free safety the Steelers are going to find, which allows Polamalu to roam even more dangerously.

Wow, Watkins was unexpected. I commented elsewhere that his height and speed make him very intriguing and probably more valuable than most are projecting. I was shot down by someone who explained shorter safeties are the trend because the tall guys just don't have the quicks. I think both Miami and Seattle grab OL or DB in the first.

 

[Bob Henry]

I like it Andy.. As a Lions fan, I'm mixed on Huff.. Not sure he's the elite player that many believe him to be, but I'm not exactly "down" on him either. Just not sure he's the right pick if we sit still at #9.

I like the independent thinking in your mock. I don't think Wimbley will go this high, but who really knows until the witching hour is upon us. There are always surprises both ways on draft day.

Manny Lawson, Bobby Carpenter and Jason Allen all look like good fits on the teams you have them going to as well.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Wow, Watkins was unexpected. I commented elsewhere that his height and speed make him very intriguing and probably more valuable than most are projecting. I was shot down by someone who explained shorter safeties are the trend because the tall guys just don't have the quicks.

But tall guys with the quicks...

I think both Miami and Seattle grab OL or DB in the first.

The depth available at o-line enables the Dolphins to wait though, doesn't it? Imagine the skill positions filled out like this: Culpepper/Brown/Chambers/Jackson/McMichaelDamn impressive.

Same story with Seattle. Except that there are LARGE questions surrounding DJax's health.

 

[Hobbes]

I still think that the Bucs go another direction in the first. I think there is a big drop-off in talent level after Brick and Justice and the next 5-6 guys are all about the same. Unless the Bucs brass feels that one of them really stands out it would probably make more sense to take a WR (if Holmes is there), DB (like Cromartie), or the best LB available.

 

[broncofan13000]

Lots of views for no replies.

for being different.

Questions, why do you think Denver would prefer Lendale over DeAngelo?

Something about Jay Cutler to Baltimore bothers me but I suppose that could happen.

I don't think the Steelers will take a safety at the end of the first. I think that pick will be DE or OG.

Lendale is from Denver, and is a fan favourite in Colorado.

 

[Kevin Ashcraft]

LOVE the KC pick......I know they just signed Walls but he isnt a lock as a starter. If S. Holmes has this many doubts, I would def. go with Williams.

 

[brewer]

Lendale is from Denver, and is a fan favourite in Colorado.

Interesting, I wasn't aware of that.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

I still think that the Bucs go another direction in the first. I think there is a big drop-off in talent level after Brick and Justice and the next 5-6 guys are all about the same. Unless the Bucs brass feels that one of them really stands out it would probably make more sense to take a WR (if Holmes is there), DB (like Cromartie), or the best LB available.

I toyed with them taking Thomas Howard.

 

[WhoDat]

Good work. Young to the Packers? Had never really thought about it but I would buy that. Favre making a declaration prior to April 28th would really help that team out. Assuming the Packers do take Young, what is your opinion on Rogers, as the writing would be on the wall for Rogers and the fact the Packers blew that pick last year?

As a Lions fan, I'm mixed on Huff.. Not sure he's the elite player that many believe him to be, but I'm not exactly "down" on him either. Just not sure he's the right pick if we sit still at #9.

Huff is a great athlete...great athlete. He is a better football player. He is the real deal. I have been forced to watch him play for UT the last few years and I will admit the kid is good. It would be a mistake to line him up at CB, opinion, as he adds much more value to a defense from either S position given his range and football acumen. The Lions are void of a difference maker on defense that does not play from a 3 pt stance. Huff fits the bill. I do agree, though, he might not be the perfect pick at 9. I would love to see the team drop down a few spots; grab another pick and draft Sims.

 

[Gargoylez]

5 Green Bay - Vince Young

A shock, I know. But really, does Aaron Rogers have ANY chance of succeeding in Brett Favre's shadow? No way. Replacing a legend is something only another "legend" (albiet at the college level) can do.

Vince Young reminds me a TON of a young Brett Favre. Can make plays with his feet, tremendous leader, but throws too many picks and seems to have trouble reading defenses. I wish I could find a college scouting report on Favre. I bet they would look nearly identical.

It seems a classic Sherlockian case of the dog that didn't bark. The Pack isn't talking about Young hoping nobody leapfrogs them.



Skewed the whole draft... Stopped reading fromthere.

With all the holes they need to fill and the lack of depth on both lines, you honestly think Ngati wouldnt be a slam dunk here??? an AJ Hawk would make a hell of alot of sense... who do you think the Packers are, the Lions? Drafting a QB in the first round 2 years in a row? then next year another?

Never in a million years. Appreciate the limb you went out on, but the mock is skewed and the order is screwed up with this one.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Great job, Andy.

I just can't see Young to the Packers. I still think Favre plays and drafting QBs in the first round two straight years is borderline insane. I like the moxie it took to project that, though.

Ngata and Bunkley are a few spots too low for my taste, but this is a terrific mock.

 

[Hobbes]

I still think that the Bucs go another direction in the first. I think there is a big drop-off in talent level after Brick and Justice and the next 5-6 guys are all about the same. Unless the Bucs brass feels that one of them really stands out it would probably make more sense to take a WR (if Holmes is there), DB (like Cromartie), or the best LB available.

I toyed with them taking Thomas Howard.

AJ Nicholson would be a good fit at MLB if he is still there around the 3rd....Quarles is on the wrong side of 30 too...plus Ruud can play the outside if they want to move him...

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Skewed the whole draft... Stopped reading fromthere.

With all the holes they need to fill and the lack of depth on both lines, you honestly think Ngati wouldnt be a slam dunk here??? an AJ Hawk would make a hell of alot of sense... who do you think the Packers are, the Lions? Drafting a QB in the first round 2 years in a row? then next year another?

Never in a million years. Appreciate the limb you went out on, but the mock is skewed and the order is screwed up with this one.

Thanks for your input. It was so rational and thought out, that I've decided to ask the mods to delete this entire thread.

 

[Hobbes]

5 Green Bay - Vince Young

A shock, I know. But really, does Aaron Rogers have ANY chance of succeeding in Brett Favre's shadow? No way. Replacing a legend is something only another "legend" (albiet at the college level) can do.

Vince Young reminds me a TON of a young Brett Favre. Can make plays with his feet, tremendous leader, but throws too many picks and seems to have trouble reading defenses. I wish I could find a college scouting report on Favre. I bet they would look nearly identical.

It seems a classic Sherlockian case of the dog that didn't bark. The Pack isn't talking about Young hoping nobody leapfrogs them.



Skewed the whole draft... Stopped reading fromthere.

With all the holes they need to fill and the lack of depth on both lines, you honestly think Ngati wouldnt be a slam dunk here??? an AJ Hawk would make a hell of alot of sense... who do you think the Packers are, the Lions? Drafting a QB in the first round 2 years in a row? then next year another?

Never in a million years. Appreciate the limb you went out on, but the mock is skewed and the order is screwed up with this one.

If they trade Rogers for a #2 like people have talked about it makes a lot of sense...

 

[broncofan13000]

if Green Bay wants a Qb they should trade down and nab Cutler .... if theres anyone that will project into Favre, its Cutler

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Great job, Andy.

I just can't see Young to the Packers. I still think Favre plays and drafting QBs in the first round two straight years is borderline insane. I like the moxie it took to project that, though.

Ngata and Bunkley are a few spots too low for my taste, but this is a terrific mock.

Here's the thinking on the Aaron Rogers situation:The poor kid has no chance.

Average quarterbacks replacing legends has been the bane of MANY franchises the last 20 years (See: Greise in Denver, about 20 different people in San Fran, Buffalo, and Miami). The fans are simply going to eat up Aaron Rogers for not being Brett Favre.

And the fact that Rogers was a first rounder LAST year is meaningless. His contract isn't that large. And just because they took an average QB that fell into their laps and the situation almost FORCED them to take him doesn't preclude them from taking a potential All-Star.

Vince Young simply has more "gravity" as a player and an image, making him a potential replacement for Favre. Where Rogers would be, in the minds of Packers fans, "not Favre", Young would be "potentially the next Favre". And that's a HUGE difference.

 

[Kleck.]

5 Green Bay - Vince Young

A shock, I know.  But really, does Aaron Rogers have ANY chance of succeeding in Brett Favre's shadow?  No way.  Replacing a legend is something only another "legend" (albiet at the college level) can do.

Vince Young reminds me a TON of a young Brett Favre.  Can make plays with his feet, tremendous leader, but throws too many picks and seems to have trouble reading defenses. I wish I could find a college scouting report on Favre. I bet they would look nearly identical.

It seems a classic Sherlockian case of the dog that didn't bark.  The Pack isn't talking about Young hoping nobody leapfrogs them.

IRT, Young after his pro day, a high ranking Packer exec said, "You don't pass on Michael Jordan." He even referred to Sam Bowie. You stole my thunder with this projection. It's been in my next mock since last week. I'm trying to finish the commentary to get it posted.

IIRC, one of the Vince Young Pro-Day videos had an interview with Thompson giving some nice praise to Young. He is one of the most firm believers in BPA so drafting Young at #5 would not shock me (although I would not like it) if that is who Thompson has rated as the BPA at the time. He'd probably catch some serious hell for it too.Even the most firm believers in BPA must realize the importance to go against it at times. If Thompson is smart, he'll understand that and not draft Young if he's available at #5.

 

[patrickmcgroin]

Good mock.

 

[radballs.]

Nice mock Andy. I hope you're right about the Raiders having Hawk fall into their laps. That would make my day.

 

[Chaos Commish]

The depth available at o-line enables the Dolphins to wait though, doesn't it? Imagine the skill positions filled out like this: Culpepper/Brown/Chambers/Jackson/McMichael

Damn impressive.

Same story with Seattle. Except that there are LARGE questions surrounding DJax's health.

Fair enough. I just don't care much for these WRs. I see it like spending a first rounder on no better than Antonio Bryant and Deion Branch in a year with exceptional talent available elsewhere.

 

[Gargoylez]

5 Green Bay - Vince Young

A shock, I know. But really, does Aaron Rogers have ANY chance of succeeding in Brett Favre's shadow? No way. Replacing a legend is something only another "legend" (albiet at the college level) can do.

Vince Young reminds me a TON of a young Brett Favre. Can make plays with his feet, tremendous leader, but throws too many picks and seems to have trouble reading defenses. I wish I could find a college scouting report on Favre. I bet they would look nearly identical.

It seems a classic Sherlockian case of the dog that didn't bark. The Pack isn't talking about Young hoping nobody leapfrogs them.



Skewed the whole draft... Stopped reading fromthere.

With all the holes they need to fill and the lack of depth on both lines, you honestly think Ngati wouldnt be a slam dunk here??? an AJ Hawk would make a hell of alot of sense... who do you think the Packers are, the Lions? Drafting a QB in the first round 2 years in a row? then next year another?

Never in a million years. Appreciate the limb you went out on, but the mock is skewed and the order is screwed up with this one.

If they trade Rogers for a #2 like people have talked about it makes a lot of sense...

Culpepper went for a 2nd rounder. Rodgers wouldnt command a 4th rounder right now. If Alex Smith and Aaron Rodgers were in the draft this year, they might not even be drafted in the first round. Don't get me wrong, it wasnt a run of the mill draft, and Kudos for going out on a limb, but it doesnt matter who is calling the signals in Green Bay, if they continue to let up a ton of points a game, wouldn't it make sense to give Rodgers an actually CHANCE (since they did spend a 1st rounder on him last year) and try and stop a team or two with a better defense? Unless Vince Young can play DT for a few games... Hawk, Haloti Ngata, Bunkley... all make sense and would anchor the defense for years and years to come.... I for one think Young is a bust waiting to happen, another fat Quincey Carter or Aaron Brooks... but that is strictly my thoughts on him.

Green Bay would be in the cellar for another 3-4 years IMO if Young was their draft pick. They need serious holes filled and QB isnt even in the top 5.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Green Bay would be in the cellar for another 3-4 years IMO if Young was their draft pick. They need serious holes filled and QB isnt even in the top 5.

You think Rogers is the solution at QB?

 

[brewer]

You think Rogers is the solution at QB?

I think I just found my new nickname for Aaron Rogers - The Solution

 

[ren hoek]

7 Oakland - A.J. Hawk

Al Davis nearly breaks his hip when Hawk falls in his lap. A linebacking corps of Kirk Morrison, Danny Clark, and A.J. Hawk is absolutely SICK!

I haven't gotten to the rest of the draft yet after this selection, but I really like what you've got so far.

 

[Gargoylez]

Green Bay would be in the cellar for another 3-4 years IMO if Young was their draft pick. They need serious holes filled and QB isnt even in the top 5.

You think Rogers is the solution at QB?

No more a solution then Young IMO. A huge powerful DT would do a heck of alot more for the Pack in the next 2-3 years then Young will. I really don't think that is questioned... is the mystique of Vince Young worth throwing a first rounder away? Can the Packers afford to take yet ANOTHER chance, that in 2 or 3 years he MIGHT be good... or get a player that has a much better chance of suceeding and a fill of a definate need?

Young doesn't make sense on almost every level.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Green Bay would be in the cellar for another 3-4 years IMO if Young was their draft pick. They need serious holes filled and QB isnt even in the top 5.

You think Rogers is the solution at QB?

No more a solution then Young IMO. A huge powerful DT would do a heck of alot more for the Pack in the next 2-3 years then Young will. I really don't think that is questioned... is the mystique of Vince Young worth throwing a first rounder away? Can the Packers afford to take yet ANOTHER chance, that in 2 or 3 years he MIGHT be good... or get a player that has a much better chance of suceeding and a fill of a definate need?

Young doesn't make sense on almost every level.

So you're a Young hater. Noted. I can see where you'd hate this mock then.I think you're wrong, but no big deal.

 

[houndirish]

Nice work AD. Lots to think about. I can't argue the Gabe Watson pick for the Giants at 25. If they do in fact sign Arrington then Defensive Tackle may vault to the top of their Defensive wishlist. Watson will likely be the best DT available at that slot so it makes sense. I'm hoping it doesn't occur as the Giants already have one Defensive Tackle with motivation issues (William Joseph) however I will say that Coughlin has gotten more out of him than Fassel ever did.

Given the choice, I think I'd rather see them take D'Meco Ryans even if they sign Arrington. Linebacker still has the least depth of any position on the D. I think Ryans and Pierce playing together would be a real nice combo. Both are heady players with excellent instincts.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Nice work AD. Lots to think about. I can't argue the Gabe Watson pick for the Giants at 25. If they do in fact sign Arrington then Defensive Tackle may vault to the top of their Defensive wishlist. Watson will likely be the best DT available at that slot so it makes sense. I'm hoping it doesn't occur as the Giants already have one Defensive Tackle with motivation issues (William Joseph) however I will say that Coughlin has gotten more out of him than Fassel ever did.

Given the choice, I think I'd rather see them take D'Meco Ryans even if they sign Arrington. Linebacker still has the least depth of any position on the D. I think Ryans and Pierce playing together would be a real nice combo. Both are heady players with excellent instincts.

I considered Ryans to the Giants. He's one of my favorite players in the draft.Why in the world did they not re-sign Clancy?

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Great job, Andy.

I just can't see Young to the Packers.  I still think Favre plays and drafting QBs in the first round two straight years is borderline insane.  I like the moxie it took to project that, though.

Ngata and Bunkley are a few spots too low for my taste, but this is  a terrific mock.

Here's the thinking on the Aaron Rogers situation:The poor kid has no chance.

Average quarterbacks replacing legends has been the bane of MANY franchises the last 20 years (See: Greise in Denver, about 20 different people in San Fran, Buffalo, and Miami). The fans are simply going to eat up Aaron Rogers for not being Brett Favre.

And the fact that Rogers was a first rounder LAST year is meaningless. His contract isn't that large. And just because they took an average QB that fell into their laps and the situation almost FORCED them to take him doesn't preclude them from taking a potential All-Star.

Vince Young simply has more "gravity" as a player and an image, making him a potential replacement for Favre. Where Rogers would be, in the minds of Packers fans, "not Favre", Young would be "potentially the next Favre". And that's a HUGE difference.

I see your point very well, but they'd have to move Rodgers, you simply can't draft a guy in the first round, pay him first round money, then nail him to the bench for the rest of his career. Do you think they move rodgers? If so, then this pick makes a ton of sense.

 

[houndirish]

Nice work AD.  Lots to think about.  I can't argue the Gabe Watson pick for the Giants at 25.  If they do in fact sign Arrington then Defensive Tackle may vault to the top of their Defensive wishlist.  Watson will likely be the best DT available at that slot so it makes sense.  I'm hoping it doesn't occur as the Giants already have one Defensive Tackle with motivation issues (William Joseph) however I will say that Coughlin has gotten more out of him than Fassel ever did.

Given the choice, I think I'd rather see them take D'Meco Ryans even if they sign Arrington.  Linebacker still has the least depth of any position on the D.  I think Ryans and Pierce playing together would be a real nice combo.  Both are heady players with excellent instincts.

I considered Ryans to the Giants. He's one of my favorite players in the draft.Why in the world did they not re-sign Clancy?

The Giants wanted to re-sign Clancy. They even met with him several times prior to free agency in an attempt to lock him up. Once free agency began I knew he was gone. Although when I saw what he signed for I was shocked the Giants were unable to keep him. It was hardly a blockbuster deal. Even though NY rotates their tackles I'd have been OK keeping Clancy at that rate. I never did hear what the Giants were offering. I'd be willing to bet it wasn't far off from what he got. However once Clancy had the ability to test the free agent waters, I think it made it exponentially tougher to bring him back. In Arizona he'll get more playing time than he did in NY. Playing besides Dockett, the Cards have a nice interior combo.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

I see your point very well, but they'd have to move Rodgers, you simply can't draft a guy in the first round, pay him first round money, then nail him to the bench for the rest of his career. Do you think they move rodgers? If so, then this pick makes a ton of sense.

I don't think they're paying him that much.

 

[Gargoylez]

Green Bay would be in the cellar for another 3-4 years IMO if Young was their draft pick. They need serious holes filled and QB isnt even in the top 5.

You think Rogers is the solution at QB?

No more a solution then Young IMO. A huge powerful DT would do a heck of alot more for the Pack in the next 2-3 years then Young will. I really don't think that is questioned... is the mystique of Vince Young worth throwing a first rounder away? Can the Packers afford to take yet ANOTHER chance, that in 2 or 3 years he MIGHT be good... or get a player that has a much better chance of suceeding and a fill of a definate need?

Young doesn't make sense on almost every level.

So you're a Young hater. Noted. I can see where you'd hate this mock then.I think you're wrong, but no big deal.

Not a hater... he could be the next amazing QB, but my reason for laughing at the Packers pick is because Young is not a sure thing, not even close, its around 50/50 with teams, scouts, etc... as far as I have read and saw. Cutler is higher and Leinart is much higher. But there are people who are in love with him, and rightfully so, but that doesnt make him some sure fire winner, or a good choice that early on for a team who had a wretched defense adn JUST drafted a QB last year in the first round. SUre the salary doesnt matter but you spent a 1st rounder on him... I dont beleive the Packers are the Bills and are going to give up on him already.DT, OG, LB, CB, WR, all are more pressing then a QB... MUCH more pressing. But people drink the Vince Young Kool-Aid and won;t be proven wrong.

I hope he drops like panties on prom night, but I am sure a team like the Cardinals and Raiders will jump all over him.

 

[pigskinliquors]

16 Miami - Chad Jackson

They SHOULD draft a tackle here, but the temptation of adding the local kid that's shot up the charts as a compliment to rising star Chambers is too much to pass up. Let's be honest here, Marty Booker?

31 Seattle - Santonio Holmes

Jackson's knee is certainly an issue. Beyond him, there is nobody near a #1 starter quality.

32 Pittsburgh - Pat Watkins

A bit of a reach in the first, but with the "loss" of Chris Hope, Watkins is probably the best "center field" type free safety the Steelers are going to find, which allows Polamalu to roam even more dangerously.

Wow, Watkins was unexpected. I commented elsewhere that his height and speed make him very intriguing and probably more valuable than most are projecting. I was shot down by someone who explained shorter safeties are the trend because the tall guys just don't have the quicks. I think both Miami and Seattle grab OL or DB in the first.

With Miami's addition of Cooper today, Safety/CB is becoming less of an issue (= that's the fourth DB they've added in FA). I'd like them to go OL, especially since they no longer have a second round pick, but Justice (who I was hoping they could get) probably won't make it out of the first 10 with his Pro-day. I like the Pick (Chad Jackson), but still expect them to choose an O-lineman (Winston or McNeal) here. Great draft, as it is unique, yet possible!

 

[Andy Dufresne]

DT, OG, LB, CB, WR, all are more pressing then a QB... MUCH more pressing.

DT = Ryan Pickett & Cullen JenkinsOG = 2nd round pick

WR/CB = Not at #5

LB = Of course Hawk makes sense too. But that's been done a million times here, and what's the fun in that?

 

[aposulli]

IRT, Young after his pro day, a high ranking Packer exec said, "You don't pass on Michael Jordan." He even referred to Sam Bowie. You stole my thunder with this projection. It's been in my next mock since last week. I'm trying to finish the commentary to get it posted.

Funny, a friend and I were discussing Bush when I brought up this legendary story. I agree the most shocking thing in this draft will be Vince Young going in the top 5.

If the Jets don't trade up, I bet they take him over Mario Williams.

 

[Chaos Commish]

Green Bay would be in the cellar for another 3-4 years IMO if Young was their draft pick. They need serious holes filled and QB isnt even in the top 5.

You think Rogers is the solution at QB?

No more a solution then Young IMO. A huge powerful DT would do a heck of alot more for the Pack in the next 2-3 years then Young will. I really don't think that is questioned... is the mystique of Vince Young worth throwing a first rounder away? Can the Packers afford to take yet ANOTHER chance, that in 2 or 3 years he MIGHT be good... or get a player that has a much better chance of suceeding and a fill of a definate need?

Young doesn't make sense on almost every level.

So you're a Young hater. Noted. I can see where you'd hate this mock then.I think you're wrong, but no big deal.

Not a hater... he could be the next amazing QB, but my reason for laughing at the Packers pick is because Young is not a sure thing, not even close, its around 50/50 with teams, scouts, etc... as far as I have read and saw. Cutler is higher and Leinart is much higher. But there are people who are in love with him, and rightfully so, but that doesnt make him some sure fire winner, or a good choice that early on for a team who had a wretched defense adn JUST drafted a QB last year in the first round. SUre the salary doesnt matter but you spent a 1st rounder on him... I dont beleive the Packers are the Bills and are going to give up on him already.DT, OG, LB, CB, WR, all are more pressing then a QB... MUCH more pressing. But people drink the Vince Young Kool-Aid and won;t be proven wrong.

I hope he drops like panties on prom night, but I am sure a team like the Cardinals and Raiders will jump all over him.

I appreciate your thoughts, but you cannot know how the Packers grade him. The Michael Jordan comment is compelling. It is very possible that Young is far far and away the best football player in this draft. Likewise it is possible that he doesn't translate to the NFL. His ceiling is among the brightest stars. His floor is Aaron Brooks. Every player in the top 10 is always a huge risk, and we never truly know who will and won't work out. Professional scouts were sincerely torn between Leaf and Manning. Disagree with the pick, fine. Go way over the top with the negatives before the kid ever sees the frozen tundra, over reacting.

 

[Chaos Commish]

I agree the most shocking thing in this draft will be Vince Young going in the top 5.

It would be the lowest I ever projected him. It wouldn't surprise me a bit. I think the media went rabid on Young, not the NFL. I wouldn't be too influenced by the media looking for a story to sensationalize. Young is a freak. He is a winner. He has a big arm. He is accurate. He has awesome intangibles. He has more potential to turn a franchise around than any player in this draft, and he has a little more potential to bust than many others. Typical of a franchise grade QB, which I believe he is.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I see your point very well, but they'd have to move Rodgers, you simply can't draft a guy in the first round, pay him first round money, then nail him to the bench for the rest of his career.  Do you think they move rodgers?  If so, then this pick makes a ton of sense.

I don't think they're paying him that much.

Rodgers's deal was a five-years for $7.7 million, $5.4 million guaranteed, with escalators that would increase value of contract to overall $30 million if all performance and roster bonuses were met. So, if he sits, he's making $1,540,000 per, which is not absurd for a backup at all, but if he ends up playing significant time, he could end up costing them a lot.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

I see your point very well, but they'd have to move Rodgers, you simply can't draft a guy in the first round, pay him first round money, then nail him to the bench for the rest of his career.  Do you think they move rodgers?  If so, then this pick makes a ton of sense.

I don't think they're paying him that much.

Rodgers's deal was a five-years for $7.7 million, $5.4 million guaranteed, with escalators that would increase value of contract to overall $30 million if all performance and roster bonuses were met. So, if he sits, he's making $1,540,000 per, which is not absurd for a backup at all, but if he ends up playing significant time, he could end up costing them a lot.

Exactly. So if he sits behind Young, BFD.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Is there any discussion beyond Vince Young?