Team Needs in the '07 Draft (1 Viewer)

[Colin Dowling]

Lots of thoughtful posts are starting to appear w/ regard to the '07 draft. As a result, I thought it prudent to keep a single, running list of what each team needs. Not only will this be a good place to discuss these needs, but it should also help folks know a little more about which spots to watch closely during the bowl season and workouts.

Please submit in this format if possible, since unifromity will make it easier for me to clip and add to the main post:

Team

Position

Current Players at that position

Justification

Possible players to target (round)

So, for example...

Team: Tennessee Titans

Position: Wide Receiver

Justification: David Givens, Drew Bennett, Bobby Wade, Brandon Jones, Courtney Roby, Roydell Williams

Givens is hurt and Bennett appears to be much more suited in the #2 role after the last two years of trying to be ther #1 guy. Wade is better suited as a kick returner and third option in the passing game. Jones, Roby, and Williams have each shown flashes, but all three appear to be lacking some of the most important skills needed to be a Premier receiver.

Possible players to target: Dwayne Jarrett (1), Robert Meachem (2)

I'm looking forward to seeing if anyone jumps in on this. I think it will help all of us (me included) get our mocks more focused while also helping folks that traditionally don't get in to the draft learn something.

 

[Colin Dowling]

Running list....

Chicago Bears: Offensive Tackle (Benson_Will_Lead...)

Cleveland Browns: Offensive Tackle (s_ezy) Defensive Line (fallerjw)

Dallas Cowboys: Offensive Tackle (Bankerguy) Nose Tackle (Bankerguy) Wide Receiver (Bankerguy)

Detroit Lions D-End (ilovemylions) Right Tackle (ilovemylions) MLB (ilovemylions) Guard (ilovemylions) Quarterback (ilovemylions)

Indianapolis Colts: Defensive Tackle (big red) Defensive End (big red) Cornerback (big red) Offensive Line (big red)

Kansas City Chiefs Offensive Tackle (x260bm0

Miami Dolphins RT, G (Marc Levin)

Minnesota Vikings: Safety (Andy D) Wide Receiver (Andy D) Defensive End (Andy D) MLB (Andy D) Quarterback (Andy D)

New England Patriots MLB (Phlash) OLB (Phlash) WR (Phlash) Corner (Phlash) Safety (Phlash)

New York Jets Tight End (Z-Dog) Running Back (Z-Dog) Fullback (Z-Dog) Guard/Right Tackle (Z-Dog) Wide Receiver (Z-Dog) DLine (Z-Dog) LB (Z-Dog)

New York Giants Cornerback (Koya) Offensive Tackle (Koya) Linebacker (Koya)Wide Receiver (Koya) Safety (Yankee23Fan)

Oakland Raiders Tight End (extra Point) Quarterback (extra Point) Right Guard (extra Point) Wide Receiver (extra Point)

Philadelphia Eagles Saftey (Ty Webb) Linebacker

Tampa Bay Bucs DTackle (mlbrandow) Strong Safety (mlbrandow) Left Tackle (mlbrandow)

Tennessee Titans: Wide Receiver (Colin Dowling)

 

[s_ezy]

Team Cleveland Browns

Position Offensive Tackle

Current Players at that position Ryan Tucker, Kevin Shaffer, Nat Dorsey, Kelly Butler

Justification Tucker is out with a mental disorder, Shaffer does a decent job but decent isn't cutting it for the browns offensive line. Nat Dorsey is a backup for life and Kelly Butler (who?)

Possible players to target (round) this is the hard part. Joe THomas obviously (1), but he won't be avaiable where the Browns pick, Levi Brown (1), Justin Blaylock (1-2), Tony Ugoh (1-2), Jack Long (1), if he comes out this year.

Browns have no depth at this position and the starters should be the depth instead of starting. that is the quality of the tackles in Cleveland, poor.

I LOVE the browns, but we really need help in the trenches

 

[Slingblade]

I think where the Titans are drafting that Ginn is a more viable option.

I like him better than Jarrett anyway.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Im a Bears fan so I am just covering them, however it is hard to target who they want to get because of draft position and players stock rising and falling

Biggest Position of Need: Offensive Line

Reason:John Tait, Rueben Brown, Olin Kruetz, and Fred Miller are all well into thier 30's and won't be around forever. Now the Bears will be looking in Free Agency to get more youth into this area and possibly a new starting RT.

Other Positions of Need:TE, SLB, SS

LB all depends on if Lance Briggs is leaving in Free Agency, if so it is an immediate need.

 

[diesel7982]

Lots of thoughtful posts are starting to appear w/ regard to the '07 draft. As a result, I thought it prudent to keep a single, running list of what each team needs. Not only will this be a good place to discuss these needs, but it should also help folks know a little more about which spots to watch closely during the bowl season and workouts.

Please submit in this format if possible, since unifromity will make it easier for me to clip and add to the main post:

Team

Position

Current Players at that position

Justification

Possible players to target (round)

So, for example...

Team: Tennessee Titans

Position: Wide Receiver

Justification: David Givens, Drew Bennett, Bobby Wade, Brandon Jones, Courtney Roby, Roydell Williams

Givens is hurt and Bennett appears to be much more suited in the #2 role after the last two years of trying to be ther #1 guy. Wade is better suited as a kick returner and third option in the passing game. Jones, Roby, and Williams have each shown flashes, but all three appear to be lacking some of the most important skills needed to be a Premier receiver.

Possible players to target: Dwayne Jarrett (1), Robert Meachem (2)

I'm looking forward to seeing if anyone jumps in on this. I think it will help all of us (me included) get our mocks more focused while also helping folks that traditionally don't get in to the draft learn something.

While WR is definitely on the list of needs for Tennessee, its not nearly as severe as CB, MLB or DE. WMI, what do you think?

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Team: Minnesota Vikings

Position: Safety

Current Players at that Position: Darren Sharper, Dwight Smith, Greg Blue, Will Hunter, Tank Williams (inj)

Justification

Sharper is old. Smith is a problem child and hasn't lived up to expectations. Williams is injured. Blue is a nice late round find and could be a Joey Browner "big-hit" type SS if given the chance. Pairing him with a stud FS type would bolster the defensive backfield.

Possible players to target (round)

Reggie Nelson (1), Laron Landry (1), Michael Griffin (1), Eric Weddle (2), Brandon Merriweather (2)

Position: Wide Receiver

Current Players at that Position: Marcus Robinson, Travis Taylor, Troy Williamson, Billy McMullen, Bethel Johnson, Jason Carter

Justification

Um. Did you read the list? Childress has reportedly said that he's not interested in taking a WR in the first, following the Eagles example. That could just be a smoke screen as this may be the worst WR corps in football. Jason Carter could emerge, though, as he's a nice rookie. Williamson is a bust.

Possible players to target (round)

Ted Ginn (1), Dwayne Jarrett (1), Calvin Johnson (1)(not likely to be there @ their draft slot), Sidney Rice (2), Jeff Samardzija (2)

Position: Defensive end

Current Players at that Position: Keneche Udeze, Darrion Scott, Ray Edwards, Erasmus James (inj), Jayme Mitchell

Justification

The biggest reason their pass defense stinks is because they get ZERO pass rush. Udeze has zero sacks this year and doesn't look like he's improving. James was looking like the real deal until a blown ACL. Ray Edwards is a nice rookie, but has only been given limited playing time.

Possible players to target (round)

Gaines Adams (1), Ray McDonald (1), Lamarr Woodley (2), Quentin Moses (2), Victor Abiramiri (2), Tim Crowder (2)

Position: Middle Linebacker

Current Players at that Position: Napoleon Harris, Dontarrious Thomas

Justification

Harris has been hurt and neither have put in standout seasons.

Possible players to target (round)

Patrick Willis (2), Buster Davis (2) (both may slide or one or both go in the 1st), H.B. Blades (3)

Position: Quarterback

Current Players at that Position: Brad Johnson, Brooks Bollenger, Tarvaris Jackson

Justification

The only things older than Brad Johnson are a) dirt, and b) the sun. Bollenger is only there because of his connections to the Head Coach and Offensive Coordinator the U of Wisconsin. Tarvaris Jackson has skills, but he is from a 1-AA school and is yet unproven.

Possible players to target (round)

Jamarcus Russel (1), Brian Brohm (1), Brady Quinn (1) (if by some miracle he falls that far, which would be inconceivable), Drew Stanton (2), Troy Smith (3), Tyler Palko (3), Kevin Kolb (3)

 

[Slingblade]

Lots of thoughtful posts are starting to appear w/ regard to the '07 draft. As a result, I thought it prudent to keep a single, running list of what each team needs. Not only will this be a good place to discuss these needs, but it should also help folks know a little more about which spots to watch closely during the bowl season and workouts.

Please submit in this format if possible, since unifromity will make it easier for me to clip and add to the main post:

Team

Position

Current Players at that position

Justification

Possible players to target (round)

So, for example...

Team: Tennessee Titans

Position: Wide Receiver

Justification: David Givens, Drew Bennett, Bobby Wade, Brandon Jones, Courtney Roby, Roydell Williams

Givens is hurt and Bennett appears to be much more suited in the #2 role after the last two years of trying to be ther #1 guy. Wade is better suited as a kick returner and third option in the passing game. Jones, Roby, and Williams have each shown flashes, but all three appear to be lacking some of the most important skills needed to be a Premier receiver.

Possible players to target: Dwayne Jarrett (1), Robert Meachem (2)

I'm looking forward to seeing if anyone jumps in on this. I think it will help all of us (me included) get our mocks more focused while also helping folks that traditionally don't get in to the draft learn something.

While WR is definitely on the list of needs for Tennessee, its not nearly as severe as CB, MLB or DE. WMI, what do you think?

CB is not going to be filled in the draft...at least not an imediate impact player.The Titans will probably fill that role via FA. At MLB, we drafted Tulloch last year and he has shown signs that can play and tackle well. DE is a big need, but I don't see us drafting one in the first unless G. Adams falls, which will not happen. So we will probably go after Ginn or Jarret. And possibly Nelson from Florida if the GM does not feel that Lowry or Fuller can step in, because L. Thompson flat out sucks.

 

[Gottabesweet]

Buffalo Bills:

LT

RG

DT

CB

C

LB depth

 

[Marc Levin]

I'll kick off the phins at the most glaring need position - OL:

Team

Miami Dolphins

Position

Everywhere along the OL, but especially depth at guard and competition for both tackle spots

Current Players at that position

LT 77 Damion McIntosh 79 Anthony Alibi

LG 78 Jeno James 71 Toniu Fonoti

C 66 Rex Hadnot 64 Kendyl Jacox

RG 70 LJ Shelton 64 Kendyl Jacox

RT 72 Vernon Carey 79 Anthony Alibi

Justification

Though Joey Harringtron's quicker decision making and faster release has reduced the insane number of sacks that Culpepper was taking, he is still feeling a lot of presure from the ends and he must make fast decisions or he will be sacked, hurried, or picked off. The team has sacrificed 33 sacks this year, good for bottom third in the league.

And the running game's woes have been consistent all year long. This is essentially the same personnel who helped produce a great run game last year, yet is now 27th in the league in rush YPG, 3.9 YPC is 20th in the league, and their 6 rush TDs on the year is pitiful - these numbers are indicative of a team that can't get a few important yards when it needs to and can't dominate the LOS. As a phin fan, I have watched them lose the LOS battle all year long.

The Miami OL clearly needs more talent at the ends (the right tackle spot especially needs some strong competition) and injuries always seem to shatter whatever limited cohesion the line gets. Carey was drafted to be a guard and he is having to learn RT. Shelton was drafted to be a tackle, but his feet are too slow so he was moved to guard. The only player on the Miami line with any consistency in his game is Jeno James, and he has been battling injuries all year. The team needs someone to steal Carey's job at RT so he can be moved to RG and Shelton can become a b/u on the right side of the line. Depth behind Hadnot and James on the interior of the left side of the line is also a necessity. Some competition for McIntosh would be nice, but Miami QBs are actuallynot gettig blind sided all that much this year - the team can make do with McIntosh at LT, but they need one of the guys already on the team to rise up and be a solid LT backup.

Possible players to target (round)

OK guys - have at it. I have not even begun to scout OLinemen. Saban has yet to draft a non-skill position in the furst, and I think he'll go for a skill position with a likely top-10 pick. I'd like him to spend that high draft pick on the OL, but I doubt he will. I'd think round2 down will be spent on both sides of the line as Saban continues transitioning the team to a 3-4.

 

[x260bm]

Team

Kansas City Chiefs

Position

Offensive Line with a glaring need for tackle

Current players

LT Jordan Black

LG Brian Waters

C Casey Wiegmann

RG Will Shields

RT Kyle Turley

Reserves Kevin Sampson, Chris Terry, Chris Bober, Will Svitek, and John Welbourn

Justification

The Chiefs were so desperate for help on the offensive line this year they brought in two players that were out of football the last two years (Turley and Terry). They also allowed John Welbourn to return from what has become his yearly steroid suspension. Next year is likely to get worse with the impending retirement of perennial pro bowl guard Will Shields. Casey Wiegmann is aging as well and weighs only 265 pounds. Turley has chronic back problems, which seem to be getting worse, and is unlikely to return as well.

Kevin Sampson is currently slated to play RT next year, but has a tendency to struggle in pass blocking. He also has missed most of the last two seasons and cannot stay healthy. John Welbourn would move to his natural position of RG if he can stay off the roids. If not, career backup Chris Bober will fill in. Casey Wiegmann will stay at center and Brian Waters will stay at LG. At LT, Black will battle Svitek assuming Sampson can stay healthy. Although Black has improved recently, most of his starts have been a disaster. He has struggled at both pass blocking and run blocking. Svitek played defensive end in college and is considered extremely raw. He did dominate in NFLE for what it is worth.

Kansas City has always focused on the offensive line in the Peterson era so they are unlikely to abandon it now. The Chiefs have struggled to run the ball at times this year, particularly on the road. They have not given up many sacks this year but that is because they have short drop backs and generally only throw deep off of play action. They also have kept their TEs as blockers more often. Being restricted to short routes has really affected the potency of the offense this year. O-Line troubles are what is killing what was once the best offense in football.

Kansas City has needs at WR (which they never seem to address) and DT. However, given the history of the organization, the O-Line will most likely be attended to first.

Possible Players to Target

I have no idea. The Chiefs are a very unpredictable team in the draft. They usually trade up or down in the first round. They also have a madding tendency to ignore the draft board and take the player they are targeting several rounds early. They could take any lineman projected to go in the first 5 rounds.

 

[ExtraPoint]

Team: Oakland Raiders

Positions: TE, QB, RG/RT (and really a LT too lol), DT, and the most obvious yes... WR.

Current players (to replace): Anderson, Brooks/Walter, Boothe/McQuiston/Walker, Sapp, Moss/Curry, and Porter/Whitted.

Justification: Moss and Porter have huge salaries and want out. One or both will be gone. Not sure how much Sapp has left in the tank but its time to think about the future. Gallery is sucking but still has more potential than what's on the right side. A good TE is necessary for the Al Davis system because the receivers are all deep. Walter is not going to be an all-pro QB and Brooks is just a placeholder.

Players to target: DBs. We dont need them but we'll draft them anyways.

 

[Z-Dog]

Team

New York Jets

Position

Tight End

Current Players at that position

Chris Baker, Sean Ryan, James Dearth (LS)

Justification

The Jets have been looking for a replacement TE for Anthony Becht ever since they jettisoned him for being too one-dimensional. Chris Baker was hinting towards a breakout season last year, but injury ended his season right after his first 100+ yard receiving performance. This year he has developed further and has set career highs in receptions and yards.

Nevertheless, expect the Jets to get a TE. Sean Ryan has been a good blocker, but has not displayed good hands or bal security. James Dearth is strictly a long sanpper, though perhaps the best one in the league (no botched snaps in his career so far). The Patriots have drafted a TE on day one of the draft nearly every years since BB showed up, so it would be no surprise for Mangini to do the same.

Possible players to target (round)

Position

Running Back

Current Players at that position

Kevan Barlow, Cedric Houston, Leon Washington, Derrick Blaylock

Justification

The Jets have had trouble running all year, despite a handful of good games from their many RBs. Derrick Blaylock is certain to be gone, and many are speculating that Kevan Barlow will be gone too (thought I think he stays). Either way, the Jets will likely add another RB to the mix unless their current RBs distinguish themselves down the stretch.

Position

Fullback

Current Players at that position

BJ Askew, James Hodgins

Justification

Askew, despite his bare-chested bravado last week, is likely a goner. Hodgins is no better than a backup. Barring a FA signing, this is a position that will be addressed on day two.

Position

Guard, Right Tackle

Current Players at that position

Pete Kendall, Brandon Moore, Anthony Clement, Wade Smith, Adrian Jones, Nashan Goddard

Justification

Kendall isn't young, and neither is Clement or Smith. Jones was unable to beat the no-better-than-servicable Clemetn at RT and is likely gone. Goddard is a project. A prospective RT would be a day one pick, a guard would be a day two selection.

Position

Wide Receiver

Current Players at that position

Laveranues Coles, Jerricho Cotchery, Justin McCareins, Tim Dwight, Brad Smith, Wallace Wright

Justification

McCareins is gone. Tim Dwight is out for the season and likely gone after it. Wallace Wright is a special teams player and nothing more. Although the Jets will likely sign one veteran WR, they are sure to want to start grooming another youngster as well.

Position

DL

Current Players at that position

Shaun Ellis, Dewayne Rovertson, Kimo von Ohlhoffen, Dave Ball, Rashad Moore, CJ Mosley, Brian Hamilton

Justification

Olhoffen is old and hasn't been all that effective. Ellis has played ok but he's not as explosive as he once was. Ball has shown flashes, and Moore is starting to develop, but they're really just filler material. Robertson's play at NT has minimized the need for a new NT, but a young 3-4 DE is definitely on the wish list.

Position

LB

Current Players at that position

Jonathan Vilma, Eric Barton, Brian Thomas, Victor Hobson, Matt Chatham, Cody Spencer, Brad Kassell, Ryan Riddle, Anthony Schlegel

Justification

The starters are young, talented, and under contract for a while, especially with Thomas' re-upping a couple of weeks ago. Hobson's contract is up next year though, and Barton has been injured. Schlegel has been a flop so far, and Chatham has been great on special teams but has not found his way onto the field much in regular defense. Kassell is really just depth. 3-4 teams tend to take LBs later in the draft, so probably not before round 3.

 

[Koya]

Team: Giants

Position

CB

OT

LB

WR

Current Players at that position - after football

Justification

DT - Hated when they lost Clancy... and getting something up the middle (1) helps their athletic but not fundamentally great LB core and (2) really accentuates the team's biggest strength, its DEs

Secondary - This seems to be the case every freakin' year. Demps isnt doing it. Could really use a playmaker type corner.

OL Depth - While you can always use more OL, especially depth, the Giants got killed when Pettigout went down (while in the midst of a surprsingly good year). Plus, one more stud there could give Eli the time he needs to throw (especially since he has struggled more than expected).

LB - I really like Pierce and Arrington was really rounding into form when he got hurt, but this is not a team strength. Even if they get a little depth it would help a lot.

WR - Now, this isnt a dire need, but looking down the road a little, Toomer is getting older and we will see how he is next year after getting hurt this year. Plax could blow up at any time, but even if he doesnt, his pure raw talent is so diminished by an IQ of 3 that he can only be depended upon as a #2. Moss is not a #1 either. When you decide to go QB, give him the weapons so something to think about if the right player falls in the middle rounds.

Possible players to target (round)

Giants:

 

[alg]

Buffalo Bills:LTRGDTCBCLB depth

I think Peters is doing well after the switch. LB, with the shadow of Spikes and an aging soon to be FA Fletcher, is a whole other story...LBRGCWRTECB jumps up to 2-3 if the Bills cannot resign Clements. Alas, a strong possibility.

 

[Bankerguy]

Team: Dallas Cowboys

Position: Offensive Tackle

Current Players at that position: Flo Adams, Marc Columbo, Jason Fabini, Pat McQuistan

Justification: Flo is aging, Columbo is average. McQuistan is a project. Time to get another blue chipper.

Team: Dallas Cowboys

Position: Nose Tackle

Current Players at that position: Jason Ferguson primarily

Justification: Paper thin in depth, Ferguson is quality but not getting younger. I see this as a first or second rounder.

Team: Dallas Cowboys

Position: Wide Receiver

Current Players at that position: Owens/Glenn/Crayton/Hurd

Justification: The Owens experiment probably comes to an end soon if they don't win a Championship in the next year or 2. Glenn is good for maybe 2 more years. Crayton is nothing more than a possession WR. Hurd is a nice prospect, however he is still very green. I project Hurd as a decent #2 NFL WR. I could see Dallas taking a shot with a WR on day one.

Too early for me to pick possible players.

 

[lions327]

Team: Detroit Lions

Position: Team president

Currently at that position: Matt Millen

Justification: He sucks....23-69 record speaks for itself.

 

[beef]

Team: Detroit LionsPosition: Team presidentCurrently at that position: Matt MillenJustification: He sucks....23-69 record speaks for itself.

easily their biggest need.i was going to post the same thing.

 

[avoiding injuries]

Team: Detroit LionsPosition: Team presidentCurrently at that position: Matt MillenJustification: He sucks....23-69 record speaks for itself.

 

[Yankee23Fan]

Giants:

DT - Hated when they lost Clancy... and getting something up the middle (1) helps their athletic but not fundamentally great LB core and (2) really accentuates the team's biggest strength, its DEs

Secondary - This seems to be the case every freakin' year. Demps isnt doing it. Could really use a playmaker type corner.

OL Depth - While you can always use more OL, especially depth, the Giants got killed when Pettigout went down (while in the midst of a surprsingly good year). Plus, one more stud there could give Eli the time he needs to throw (especially since he has struggled more than expected).

LB - I really like Pierce and Arrington was really rounding into form when he got hurt, but this is not a team strength. Even if they get a little depth it would help a lot.

WR - Now, this isnt a dire need, but looking down the road a little, Toomer is getting older and we will see how he is next year after getting hurt this year. Plax could blow up at any time, but even if he doesnt, his pure raw talent is so diminished by an IQ of 3 that he can only be depended upon as a #2. Moss is not a #1 either. When you decide to go QB, give him the weapons so something to think about if the right player falls in the middle rounds.

I'm going to work off/with this because Koya and I are usually on the same page with the GiantsTeam

New York Giants

Position

Linebacker

Current Players at that position

LaVar Arrington, Antonio Pierce, Reggie Torbor, Carlos Emmons, Brandon Short

Justification

As Koya said, Linebacker has been a glaring weakness of this team for awhile. Many of us thought/hoped/prayed that with Arrington coming in this year that would change. Two things made that not happen; (1) the gameplan early on and up until week 8 or so was to let the front 4 get the pressure and the LB's weren't used as a rush force like they should be, and (2) Arrington got hurt - as usual.

Pierce is good but the rest of the unit has health issues or isn't good. All in all you can't grade the LB core at anything higher then C-, and for a team whose offense supposidely gives you Super Bowl dreams, a LB core that bad won't get it done.

Possible players to target (round)

Personally, I would focus on the most explosive LB I can find. That Paul Pozlowski (sp?) kid at Penn St. looks like an Urlacher clone which would be sweet, but I simply don't follow college enough to know all of the guys at the position. If he is what I think he is, I'm trading up if I have to get him in the first.

Other Position Needs

Safety & Cover Corner. Again, as Koya said, it seems like very damn year the Giants have needs here and this year will be no different. I have no faith in Sam Madison or Will Demps and I'm not sold on RW or Frank Walker.

If the Giants can pull off getting solid at these positions, I think they can go into next year with the same core everywhere else and be fine. A solid verteran backup at Tackle is always nice for depth, and I agree with Koya that WR might be a problem, if not necessarily an immediate one.

I will also add that I am a huge Brandon Jacobs fan, so my hope is that they Giants do not draft a RB this year and if they do at any pint during day 1 I won't be happy because the pick is better used elsewhere.

 

[ILoveMyLions]

Great Topic...

Great point earlier as well about the Lions getting a GM who knows what they are doing. That is the first order of business in the offseason. Thanks to Millen's ineptness as GM, the Lions have so many needs to list here, but I'll keep the list to five...

Team - Detroit Lions

Position - DE

Current Players at that position - J. Hall, K. Edwards, J. Devries

Justification - Edwards may be the worst DE starting in the NFL. He's another bust to add to the Millen resume and should have never been resigned which many of us Detroit fans said last year. Hall is solid and Devries is a good backup, but the Lions have NOTHING after those two and may need to add two DEs in the offseason.

Possible players to target (round) - Gaines Adams (1), Tim Crowder (2), Anthony Spencer (2-3)

Team - Detroit Lions

Position - RT

Current Players at that position - R. Tucker, J. Scott

Justification - This is an area that needs a serious upgrade. I like Scott and think he can develop into a solid player if he can add some strength in the next year or so. But he's more of a finese LT and would be a good backup at that position. Tucker simply can't stay healthy and will likely be gone next season.

Possible players to target (round) - Joe Thomas (1), Jake Long (trade down?)(1) Arron Sears (2-3), Daniel Inman (3-4)

Team - Detroit Lions

Position - MLB

Current Players at that position - P. Lenon, T. Lehman, B. Bailley

Justification - LOL...do I really need to put a justification here? Lenon plays hard but lacks talent, Lehman has been hurt for three years and Bailey has constant knee problems. Any questions? The Lions need a MLB that can play the position and cover in the Tampa 2 scheme.

Possible players to target (round) - Earl Everett (3) Anthony Waters (3), Kevin McLee (4)

Team - Detroit Lions

Position - OG

Current Players at that position - D. Woody, Demulling, Stokes, Verba

Justification - Woody is solid, but has not lived up to his huge contract. Demulling has been a bust and Stokes isn't an NFL caliber starter. Verba is solid, but he may not be back after only signing a one year deal. They need some talent at the interior of the line and should draft an OG by round 5 on draft day if they don't sign a starter in free agency.

Possible players to target (round) - Manuel Ramirez (2), Ben Grubbs (3), Tim Duckworth (4-5)

Team - Detroit Lions

Position - QB

Current Players at that position - Kitna, McCown, Olrovsky

Justification - Jon Kitna has put up fairly decent numbers in Martz's offense this year, but his turnovers are always in crucial situations at the end of the game. His age and inability to lead this team to wins makes him a possible upgrade in the next year. As far as McCown and Orlovsky, I don't think either is the answer. I'm not for drafting a QB like Quinn and investing that much money when there are so many problems on the offensive line. I could see the Lions use a 2nd or 3rd rounder on a signal caller though....

Possible players to target (round) - Troy Smith (2), Drew Stanton (3), Trent Edwards (4-5)

Honorable Mention Needs: CB, TE, OLB

 

[Koya]

Giants:

DT - Hated when they lost Clancy... and getting something up the middle (1) helps their athletic but not fundamentally great LB core and (2) really accentuates the team's biggest strength, its DEs

Secondary - This seems to be the case every freakin' year. Demps isnt doing it. Could really use a playmaker type corner.

OL Depth - While you can always use more OL, especially depth, the Giants got killed when Pettigout went down (while in the midst of a surprsingly good year). Plus, one more stud there could give Eli the time he needs to throw (especially since he has struggled more than expected).

LB - I really like Pierce and Arrington was really rounding into form when he got hurt, but this is not a team strength. Even if they get a little depth it would help a lot.

WR - Now, this isnt a dire need, but looking down the road a little, Toomer is getting older and we will see how he is next year after getting hurt this year. Plax could blow up at any time, but even if he doesnt, his pure raw talent is so diminished by an IQ of 3 that he can only be depended upon as a #2. Moss is not a #1 either. When you decide to go QB, give him the weapons so something to think about if the right player falls in the middle rounds.

I'm going to work off/with this because Koya and I are usually on the same page with the GiantsTeam

New York Giants

Position

Linebacker

Current Players at that position

LaVar Arrington, Antonio Pierce, Reggie Torbor, Carlos Emmons, Brandon Short

Justification

As Koya said, Linebacker has been a glaring weakness of this team for awhile. Many of us thought/hoped/prayed that with Arrington coming in this year that would change. Two things made that not happen; (1) the gameplan early on and up until week 8 or so was to let the front 4 get the pressure and the LB's weren't used as a rush force like they should be, and (2) Arrington got hurt - as usual.

Pierce is good but the rest of the unit has health issues or isn't good. All in all you can't grade the LB core at anything higher then C-, and for a team whose offense supposidely gives you Super Bowl dreams, a LB core that bad won't get it done.

Possible players to target (round)

Personally, I would focus on the most explosive LB I can find. That Paul Pozlowski (sp?) kid at Penn St. looks like an Urlacher clone which would be sweet, but I simply don't follow college enough to know all of the guys at the position. If he is what I think he is, I'm trading up if I have to get him in the first.

Other Position Needs

Safety & Cover Corner. Again, as Koya said, it seems like very damn year the Giants have needs here and this year will be no different. I have no faith in Sam Madison or Will Demps and I'm not sold on RW or Frank Walker.

If the Giants can pull off getting solid at these positions, I think they can go into next year with the same core everywhere else and be fine. A solid verteran backup at Tackle is always nice for depth, and I agree with Koya that WR might be a problem, if not necessarily an immediate one.

I will also add that I am a huge Brandon Jacobs fan, so my hope is that they Giants do not draft a RB this year and if they do at any pint during day 1 I won't be happy because the pick is better used elsewhere.

We either agree strongly, or disagree more strongly. I should add, the Giants SHOULD be looking for a new coach (if and only if the right fit is available) and not lock up Coughlin long term.

Most important, they need someone, be it the Head Coach or an offensive coordinator that can relate to Eli. Eli has some great intangibles that we have seen in his late game abilities. But someone needs to get the consistency for the other 3.5 quarters and work on his demeanor and confidence (or apparant confidence).

 

[qimqam]

Giants:

DT - Hated when they lost Clancy... and getting something up the middle (1) helps their athletic but not fundamentally great LB core and (2) really accentuates the team's biggest strength, its DEs

Secondary - This seems to be the case every freakin' year. Demps isnt doing it. Could really use a playmaker type corner.

OL Depth - While you can always use more OL, especially depth, the Giants got killed when Pettigout went down (while in the midst of a surprsingly good year). Plus, one more stud there could give Eli the time he needs to throw (especially since he has struggled more than expected).

LB - I really like Pierce and Arrington was really rounding into form when he got hurt, but this is not a team strength. Even if they get a little depth it would help a lot.

WR - Now, this isnt a dire need, but looking down the road a little, Toomer is getting older and we will see how he is next year after getting hurt this year. Plax could blow up at any time, but even if he doesnt, his pure raw talent is so diminished by an IQ of 3 that he can only be depended upon as a #2. Moss is not a #1 either. When you decide to go QB, give him the weapons so something to think about if the right player falls in the middle rounds.

I'm going to work off/with this because Koya and I are usually on the same page with the GiantsTeam

New York Giants

Position

Linebacker

Current Players at that position

LaVar Arrington, Antonio Pierce, Reggie Torbor, Carlos Emmons, Brandon Short

Justification

As Koya said, Linebacker has been a glaring weakness of this team for awhile. Many of us thought/hoped/prayed that with Arrington coming in this year that would change. Two things made that not happen; (1) the gameplan early on and up until week 8 or so was to let the front 4 get the pressure and the LB's weren't used as a rush force like they should be, and (2) Arrington got hurt - as usual.

Pierce is good but the rest of the unit has health issues or isn't good. All in all you can't grade the LB core at anything higher then C-, and for a team whose offense supposidely gives you Super Bowl dreams, a LB core that bad won't get it done.

Possible players to target (round)

Personally, I would focus on the most explosive LB I can find. That Paul Pozlowski (sp?) kid at Penn St. looks like an Urlacher clone which would be sweet, but I simply don't follow college enough to know all of the guys at the position. If he is what I think he is, I'm trading up if I have to get him in the first.

Other Position Needs

Safety & Cover Corner. Again, as Koya said, it seems like very damn year the Giants have needs here and this year will be no different. I have no faith in Sam Madison or Will Demps and I'm not sold on RW or Frank Walker.

If the Giants can pull off getting solid at these positions, I think they can go into next year with the same core everywhere else and be fine. A solid verteran backup at Tackle is always nice for depth, and I agree with Koya that WR might be a problem, if not necessarily an immediate one.

I will also add that I am a huge Brandon Jacobs fan, so my hope is that they Giants do not draft a RB this year and if they do at any pint during day 1 I won't be happy because the pick is better used elsewhere.

We either agree strongly, or disagree more strongly. I should add, the Giants SHOULD be looking for a new coach (if and only if the right fit is available) and not lock up Coughlin long term.

Most important, they need someone, be it the Head Coach or an offensive coordinator that can relate to Eli. Eli has some great intangibles that we have seen in his late game abilities. But someone needs to get the consistency for the other 3.5 quarters and work on his demeanor and confidence (or apparant confidence).

Giants need big play Safty that plays like a linebacker...Someone like a Roy Williams , Palamalu, R.Harrison, Sean Taylor, ... I know they are hard to come by but I think this would make the biggest difference on D.

 

[MLBrandow]

Wish I had more time to devote then right now, but here you go real quick

Team Bucs

Position UT

Current Players at that position Ellis Wyms, and a few guys from random practice squads.

Justification It was a guarantee they'd get rid of McFarland before next season, but I was surprised they traded him during the season... although not too surprised. After the season was in the hole, there was no reason to keep him around. Long story short, there is zero depth at UT, and part of what makes the T2D work is having that inside penetration so the premier DE can do his job. Rice was battling a shoulder injury for most of the year, but his sacks were also way down not from age but because of the lack of a UT presence.

Possible players to target (round) Quinn Pitcock perhaps, but definitely a day 1 pick. This is a vital need for the defense to return to relevance.

Team Bucs

Position SS

Current Players at that position Jermaine Phillips, Kalvin Pearson

Justification Phillips will be released after this season. Pearson is not good enough to take his place. Phillips wasn't good enough to be in his place in the first place. They need a SS who is competant and a sure tackler because it has been the achilles of the defense since releasing Lynch after the '03 season.

Possible players to target (round) Michael Griffin (2)

Team Bucs

Position LT

Current Players at that position Anthony Davis and some practice squad scrubs.

Justification The Bucs have drafted in the past few years: LG (Dan Buenning), C (Sean Mahan), RG (Davin Joseph), and RT (Jeremy Trueblood). While Mahan isn't starting yet and may be a question mark as to whether he'll assume that C role (I think he will), the LT spot is the lone remaining question mark. Landing a LT will be the top priority for the Bucs in the draft, and shoring up that offensive line. They'll want as close to a can't miss, nfl-polished prospect as possible, and they might even trade up to get one if necessary.

Possible players to target (round) Joe Thomas (1), Levi Brown (1)

 

[Colin Dowling]

Good stuff so far. I'll update the main post tomorrow morning.

INteresting that no one has chimed in on the Texans QB need.

 

[diesel7982]

Lots of thoughtful posts are starting to appear w/ regard to the '07 draft. As a result, I thought it prudent to keep a single, running list of what each team needs. Not only will this be a good place to discuss these needs, but it should also help folks know a little more about which spots to watch closely during the bowl season and workouts.

Please submit in this format if possible, since unifromity will make it easier for me to clip and add to the main post:

Team

Position

Current Players at that position

Justification

Possible players to target (round)

So, for example...

Team: Tennessee Titans

Position: Wide Receiver

Justification: David Givens, Drew Bennett, Bobby Wade, Brandon Jones, Courtney Roby, Roydell Williams

Givens is hurt and Bennett appears to be much more suited in the #2 role after the last two years of trying to be ther #1 guy. Wade is better suited as a kick returner and third option in the passing game. Jones, Roby, and Williams have each shown flashes, but all three appear to be lacking some of the most important skills needed to be a Premier receiver.

Possible players to target: Dwayne Jarrett (1), Robert Meachem (2)

I'm looking forward to seeing if anyone jumps in on this. I think it will help all of us (me included) get our mocks more focused while also helping folks that traditionally don't get in to the draft learn something.

While WR is definitely on the list of needs for Tennessee, its not nearly as severe as CB, MLB or DE. WMI, what do you think?

CB is not going to be filled in the draft...at least not an imediate impact player.The Titans will probably fill that role via FA. At MLB, we drafted Tulloch last year and he has shown signs that can play and tackle well. DE is a big need, but I don't see us drafting one in the first unless G. Adams falls, which will not happen. So we will probably go after Ginn or Jarret. And possibly Nelson from Florida if the GM does not feel that Lowry or Fuller can step in, because L. Thompson flat out sucks.

I think its way too early to speculate about what players will go where, and to use that to rule out what the Titans will do in the 1st round.Guys like Leon Hall could just as easily fall to the Titans, while Dwayne Jarrett could run a 4.6 and fall to the end of the 1st.

However, in looking at where TEN has big holes on the roster, you are correct in that Saftey could certainly be a target position. I think Tullock has looked ok this year, but I find it disconcerting that Sirmon, who has no future with the Titans, is still starting over Tullock if they plan on him playing a larger role next year.

DE cannot be ruled out at this point. Gaines Adams is by no means a lock for the top 5 given questions about what size he'll be when hes actually measured. The Titans have no one to play opposite KVB right now; Travis Laboy is an undersized pass-rusher, Antwan Odom who cant stay healthy or generate a pass rush, and Tony Brown, who is better suited to be a DT in this scheme.

WR is a position of need, and the Titans would certainly love a game breaker there, but I think given players of equal ability being available to them with their first round pick at DE, WR, S and MLB, WR would be 3rd or 4th on the list at this point. Brandon Jones will get better, hes playing very well right now, just a year removed from an ACL. Drew Bennett is still of starter quality, Vince just doesnt use him. Assuming David Givens follows all the ACL'ed WRs from last year, he'll be healthy by Sept or Oct at the latest next year. And Im still a fan of Roydell, though hes amazingly behind Bobby "I knock balls down like a DB" Wade at the positon. For a team that will be heavily run first, and use the TE's alot in the passing game, WR just isnt a huge need.

Finally, Id almost argue the Titans have a much more severe need on the OL, specifically at RT, where David "Big Country" Stewart has been adequate for a 2nd day pick, but I believe would be a better backup. In addition, I think Zach Piller has underachieved long enough to be sent packing, and I worry about Jacob Bell holding up over an entire season. All that said, I dont expect the Titans to address the OL in the 1st round unless something spectacular falls to them.

 

[Phlash]

Team: New England Patriots

Position: Middle Linebacker

Current Players at that Position: Tedy Bruschi, Junior Seau (inj.)

Justification

These guys are OLD, well into their 30s, and Seau has already retired once. Young linebackers have been a need for the Patriots for a few years, but BB refuses to go to young guys as his starters.

Position: Outside Linebacker

Current Players at that Position: Roosevelt Colvin, Mike Vrabel, Tully Banta-Cain

Justification

The Outside Linebackers are definitely younger than the Middle Linebackers, but Mike is getting up there and Roosevelt Colvin will be there soon. Tully is nothing more than a situational pass rusher (who is being thrust into a starting role this season because of injuries) and the Patriots would be wise to add some depth here.

Position: Wide Receiver

Current Players at that Position: Reche Caldwell, Chad Jackson, Doug Gabriel, Troy Brown.

Justification

The Patriots receiving corps is probably one of the word in pro football, and without Tom Brady they would never ever make a play. Reche has created some great chemistry with Brady, but he is nothing more than a number 2 put in the number 1 receiver position because of a lack of a playmaker. Troy Brown could play for the next 4 years and still manage to put up 30/400 a year, but he is probably going to be retiring in the next couple of years. Chad Jackson can't seem to get on the field when he was expected to be a starter from day 1, much to the dismay of BB. Doug Gabriel has shown flashes, but is too inconsistent at the moment to be a full time contributor. ONE thing about the Patriots WR corps is that they have pretty good hands, and seem to catch everything thrown their way assuming they're open.

Position: Cornerback

Current Players at that Position: Asante Samuel, Ellis Hobbs

Justification

The Patriots cornerbacks seem to be made of plywood and break down at about midseason because they lay down big hits. They NEED depth here. Samuel has blossomed into a true #1 CB and can go against the best WRs in the league and Ellis Hobbs is a solid #2, but if either goes down for any extended period of time, the Patriots backfield is going to hurt.

Position: Safety

Current Players at that Position: Rodney Harrison, Eugene Wilson

Justification

Both of these players are quality - but both are prone to injuries because of their hard hitting styles. Gino and Rodney have a tendency to just go all out and try to physically disable WRs and RBs that get near them, but karma has been biting them in the rear and they are finding themselves on the injury report perennially. Adding depth here is a necessity.

 

[Ty Webb]

Let me preface this by saying that my players to target are based solely on what I have read and how I think they would fit based on their strengths and weaknesses.

Team: Philadelphia Eagles

Position: Safety

Current Players at the Position: Brian Dawkins, Michael Lewis, Sean Considine, Quintin Mikell

Justification: Brian Dawkins is aging. Michael Lewis has fallen out of favor with the coaches and will almost certainly be let go. Sean Considine looks like a decent player, but it doesn't seem like he will be quite good enough to be a starter. The Eagles really need someone who has good cover skills and will play controlled.

Possible players to target: 1.Michael Griffin; 2. Reggie Nelson; 3.Laron Landry; 4. Brandon Meriweather

Team: Philadelphia Eagles

Position: Linebacker

Current Players at the Position: Jeremiah Trotter, Dhani Jones, Matt McCoy, Omar Gaither, Shawn Barber, Jason Short, Dedrick Roper, Torrance Daniels, Chris Gocong

Justification: Jeremiah Trotter is aging. I'm not sure if anyone else in this LB corps is even worth discussing. Omar Gaither started for the first time on Monday night. He looks like he could be a nice player, but there have been questions about his size in the past and whether he could be a full-time player. Either way, Dhani Jones and Matt McCoy do not cut it. Chris Gocong (3rd round pick in 2006) was a DE in college at Cal-Poly. The team thinks he can become a LB, but he has been on IR all year, so god knows if and when that will actually happen. Based on the team's history, it seems unlikely that they actually will draft an LB in the first round, but I think it would be a smart move if they are in the right draft spot. Ideally, they could get someone who can help out with their run defense, which has become woeful. Hopefully the DL will be bolstered by the return of Jevon Kearse and this year's first-rounder Broderick Bunkley actually making it on to the field, but ideally they still need some LB's who can help on the run-stopping.

Possible players to target: 1.Paul Pozluszny; 2. Patrick Willis; 3.H.B. Blades; 4. Earl Everett; 5. Rufus Alexander

Edited: to put current players in a seprate line.

 

[Fallerjw]

Team Cleveland Browns

Position Offensive Tackle

Current Players at that position Ryan Tucker, Kevin Shaffer, Nat Dorsey, Kelly Butler

Justification Tucker is out with a mental disorder, Shaffer does a decent job but decent isn't cutting it for the browns offensive line. Nat Dorsey is a backup for life and Kelly Butler (who?)

Possible players to target (round) this is the hard part. Joe THomas obviously (1), but he won't be avaiable where the Browns pick, Levi Brown (1), Justin Blaylock (1-2), Tony Ugoh (1-2), Jack Long (1), if he comes out this year.

Browns have no depth at this position and the starters should be the depth instead of starting. that is the quality of the tackles in Cleveland, poor.

I LOVE the browns, but we really need help in the trenches

Team Cleveland BrownsPosition Defensive Line

Current Players at that position Orpheus Roye, Ted Washington, Alvin McKinley, Simon Fraser, Nick Eason, J'vonne Parker

Justification Reasons range from age to lack of mobility to lack of ability. This whole group could use some revamping. One or two of these guys could stay, but something has to be done to improve this group.

Possible players to target (round) Alan Branch (1), Quinn Pitcock (1), DeMarcus "Tank" Taylor (2) Obviously the Branch pick would depend if he declares for the draft.

The Browns have a LOT of needs at this point, however, I think the best bet is to start in the trenches. If they start with the O / D Line, I think the others will fall into place.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

INteresting that no one has chimed in on the Texans QB need.

I would say that's because they don't have one. A lack of any running game would kill ANY quarterback's ability.

 

[Workhorse]

Team: New England Patriots

Position: Middle Linebacker

Current Players at that Position: Tedy Bruschi, Junior Seau (inj.)

Justification

These guys are OLD, well into their 30s, and Seau has already retired once. Young linebackers have been a need for the Patriots for a few years, but BB refuses to go to young guys as his starters.

Position: Outside Linebacker

Current Players at that Position: Roosevelt Colvin, Mike Vrabel, Tully Banta-Cain

Justification

The Outside Linebackers are definitely younger than the Middle Linebackers, but Mike is getting up there and Roosevelt Colvin will be there soon. Tully is nothing more than a situational pass rusher (who is being thrust into a starting role this season because of injuries) and the Patriots would be wise to add some depth here.

Position: Wide Receiver

Current Players at that Position: Reche Caldwell, Chad Jackson, Doug Gabriel, Troy Brown.

Justification

The Patriots receiving corps is probably one of the word in pro football, and without Tom Brady they would never ever make a play. Reche has created some great chemistry with Brady, but he is nothing more than a number 2 put in the number 1 receiver position because of a lack of a playmaker. Troy Brown could play for the next 4 years and still manage to put up 30/400 a year, but he is probably going to be retiring in the next couple of years. Chad Jackson can't seem to get on the field when he was expected to be a starter from day 1, much to the dismay of BB. Doug Gabriel has shown flashes, but is too inconsistent at the moment to be a full time contributor. ONE thing about the Patriots WR corps is that they have pretty good hands, and seem to catch everything thrown their way assuming they're open.

Position: Cornerback

Current Players at that Position: Asante Samuel, Ellis Hobbs

Justification

The Patriots cornerbacks seem to be made of plywood and break down at about midseason because they lay down big hits. They NEED depth here. Samuel has blossomed into a true #1 CB and can go against the best WRs in the league and Ellis Hobbs is a solid #2, but if either goes down for any extended period of time, the Patriots backfield is going to hurt.

Position: Safety

Current Players at that Position: Rodney Harrison, Eugene Wilson

Justification

Both of these players are quality - but both are prone to injuries because of their hard hitting styles. Gino and Rodney have a tendency to just go all out and try to physically disable WRs and RBs that get near them, but karma has been biting them in the rear and they are finding themselves on the injury report perennially. Adding depth here is a necessity.

You didn't list players to target but your list is spot on. Here's the way I see it breaking down:

ILB possibilities: Since I think that Patrick Willis will be off the board by the time the Pats get to pick in round 1, I'd look at a kid like David Harris from Michigan. Or possibly a kid like Anthony Waters in the mid rounds.

OLB possibilities: Probably won't be good value in the first couple of rounds where the Pats will pick, so this would be a mid to late round fill. Maybe someone like Juwan Simpson from Alabama. Personally, I don't think the Pats need all that much help here.

CB possibilities: I could very easily see the Pats taking Aaron Ross from Texas with one of their two first rounders, but if they go that route, I'd prefer Daymeion Hughes.

S possibilites: I think Belichick is going to make a play to move up to try to get Michael Griffin, unless he slides on draft day. He'd be a perfect fit in that defense and could be the heir apparent to Rodney Harrison.

One other potential draft need: Tackle -- Matt Light gets dinged up a bit every year and is getting older. I'd LOVE to see the Pats draft James Marten from Boston College. He's played at Guard and Tackle at BC so he's versatile -- Something that's a must for Belichick players.

 

[coolnerd]

I will do the Texans sometime today.

 

[BigRed]

I thought it prudent to keep a single, running list of what each team needs.

Translation: "I'm looking for material to steal so I can write some draft articles next year." Anyway Colts are easy; D, D, and more D. More specifically (talent avail and possible FAs obtained pending, tho not holding my breath) as follows - and really, do these need to be explained much? These are needs because we don't have squat in these areas (except OL):1- DT (we have no one)2 - LB (ditto)3 - CB (pretty much the same)4 - OL (C and left OT are old and kinda thin in general)5 - best avail of D and OL

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Anyway Colts are easy; D, D, and more D. More specifically (talent avail and possible FAs obtained pending, tho not holding my breath) as follows - and really, do these need to be explained much? These are needs because we don't have squat in these areas (except OL):1- DT (we have no one)2 - LB (ditto)3 - CB (pretty much the same)4 - OL (C and left OT are old and kinda thin in general)5 - best avail of D and OL

The defense is about to get worse if they let Cato June go. What is it with the Colts letting their LB's go?As far as DTs go, someone like Demarcus "Tank" Tyler from NC State could be there for the Colts at the end of the first and may be a good option.

 

[Colin Dowling]

We should be pretty close to updated in the second post.

 

[Bri]

I don't want the Pats to draft a WR. I'd rather they go the FA route. When is the last time they drafted a good WR? geesh no please don't.

Totally agree on LBs, as I've said before, I wish it were done in the 06 draft. DBs, absolutely.

Jets don't need a FB they're fine. If they wanted more they'd have kept Sowell. FBs aren't often drafted anyway so it's probably not worth debating. WR -with Coles and Cotchery and Smith playing WR...not a super need and that team has needs. I don't see em' good enough to draft for depth yet.

Giants need to draft a scat back/fast back IMO. Half the playbook will be useless once Tiki retires if not. Jacobs is good and Ward is a good backup but I think they benefit from Tiki. Tiki gets outside so fast and gets the D tired, running sideline to sideline. Pounding it up the gut every play is really limitting IMO. I just don't think Jacobs is that "well rounded" where he's going to be a two way threat (rush/rec).

I don't disagree they need help in their secondary but they just spent alot on it this last offseason. Suppose ya think Madison stinks if they can't pressure the QB. If cutting him costs them 7 mil what's the point. They might wait a year to re-visit the secondary.

to clarify a point- Maybe a power game would be nice with Jacobs but do they have the "road grader" Guards to do that? It's not so easy to just plug a new guy in. If not scat back then they might need some brutish Guards

 

[Weapon of Mass Instruction]

Team: Tennessee Titans

Position: Cornerback and Safety

Justification: Lamont Thompson and Reynaldo Hill

These guys just can't cover. The defense is actually pretty dang good, but twice a game these two just get torched and give up a 65 yard TD. Here we are playing ball control and they just blow it up.

Possible players to target: Landry, the safety at LSU would be perfect. Get Clements or Samuels via Free Agency.

Voila -- instant top 5 defense...and, yes, I'm serious.

 

[Weapon of Mass Instruction]

I will do the Texans sometime today.

That's what she said.

 

[Weapon of Mass Instruction]

While WR is definitely on the list of needs for Tennessee, its not nearly as severe as CB, MLB or DE.

WMI, what do you think?

See my previous post -- I actually wrote it before I even saw this post.1st -- CB (though, I think we do this via free agency)

2nd --Safety (Landry) Although, I'd SURE like to see what Lowery can do. Every time he's on the field he knocks someone loopy. Would be a great sub if we got a true #1.

3rd -- DE (?, but maybe FA on this one, too.

4th -- WR I think Brandon Jones is about to come into his own. If we can get a co-1 to work with him, I like having Drew and Bobby Wade as the 3/4 kind of guys.

Bottom line -- the offseason can NOT be successful without addressing Safety and Corner. Period.

 

[Marc Levin]

I thought it prudent to keep a single, running list of what each team needs.

Translation: "I'm looking for material to steal so I can write some draft articles next year."

That was my first thought, too. But, I noticed it was Colin and, IIRC, he's ALREADY come out with a mock draft. He needs no help with the college side of things, but I think it is a bit extreme to expect him to know every team's needs in thy draft and why.He's only got two eyes, and he's not getting paid Mike Mayauck bucks to internalize all that info and keep a staff on hand to gather whatever he has no time for.

 

[Marc Levin]

We should be pretty close to updated in the second post.

I took the liberty of editing to clarify what the 'phins needs are on the OL.I am not sure if they need to replace Hadnot - I don't think so. And they don't need to replace Carey - they need to move him to RG, which means they need a better RT. They are also going to keep James and McIntosh on the left side, but they need to get another guard for the left side of the OL for depth, or they need one of their two young'uns to start learning the game real fast.So, I changed it to RT and G - that should help out your analysis better than a general "OL"

 

[Englishteacher]

Team: Detroit LionsPosition: Team presidentCurrently at that position: Matt MillenJustification: He sucks....23-69 record speaks for itself.

Maybe Isiah Thomas would become avaliable. He's got ties to the city and is an experienced pro sports executive who would fit the Lions' historical mold. After all, with the upcoming huge bounce for the salary cap, you have to have someone who can put the team over the cap with a bunch of crappy players with long term, guaranteed contracts.

 

[Colin Dowling]

I thought it prudent to keep a single, running list of what each team needs.

Translation: "I'm looking for material to steal so I can write some draft articles next year."

That was my first thought, too. But, I noticed it was Colin and, IIRC, he's ALREADY come out with a mock draft. He needs no help with the college side of things, but I think it is a bit extreme to expect him to know every team's needs in thy draft and why.He's only got two eyes, and he's not getting paid Mike Mayauck bucks to internalize all that info and keep a staff on hand to gather whatever he has no time for.

Thanks. I make no bones about not knowing what every team might want and/or need. Who does? Collective knowledge is ALWAYS better than just one guy's head. I thought everyone would enjoy reading/contributing to this thread. Selfishly, I'd like to do a 3 or 4 round draft this year and not just plug in "best player available" after the 50th pick, like most services do.Colin

 

[Koya]

I don't want the Pats to draft a WR. I'd rather they go the FA route. When is the last time they drafted a good WR? geesh no please don't.Totally agree on LBs, as I've said before, I wish it were done in the 06 draft. DBs, absolutely.Jets don't need a FB they're fine. If they wanted more they'd have kept Sowell. FBs aren't often drafted anyway so it's probably not worth debating. WR -with Coles and Cotchery and Smith playing WR...not a super need and that team has needs. I don't see em' good enough to draft for depth yet.Giants need to draft a scat back/fast back IMO. Half the playbook will be useless once Tiki retires if not. Jacobs is good and Ward is a good backup but I think they benefit from Tiki. Tiki gets outside so fast and gets the D tired, running sideline to sideline. Pounding it up the gut every play is really limitting IMO. I just don't think Jacobs is that "well rounded" where he's going to be a two way threat (rush/rec). I don't disagree they need help in their secondary but they just spent alot on it this last offseason. Suppose ya think Madison stinks if they can't pressure the QB. If cutting him costs them 7 mil what's the point. They might wait a year to re-visit the secondary.to clarify a point- Maybe a power game would be nice with Jacobs but do they have the "road grader" Guards to do that? It's not so easy to just plug a new guy in. If not scat back then they might need some brutish Guards

The RB question - I would guess the Giants are going with Jacobs and seeing what they have full time, next year. Of course, if a real value drops, anything is possible. But Jacobs has earned a good shot for the job - he can catch the ball ok it seems.Snee is a great young guard, imo.At DB, just because you have a guy on your team (Madison) doesnt mean he has to be the top guy. I think you draft a DB if there is a game changing type player available and then you deal with what you already have on the team.

 

[Marc Levin]

Team: Detroit Lions

Position: Team president

Currently at that position: Matt Millen

Justification: He sucks....23-69 record speaks for itself.

Maybe Isiah Thomas would become avaliable. He's got ties to the city and is an experienced pro sports executive who would fit the Lions' historical mold. After all, with the upcoming huge bounce for the salary cap, you have to have someone who can put the team over the cap with a bunch of crappy players with long term, guaranteed contracts.

Cleared up the superfluous language.

 

[LawFitz]

Team Oakland Raiders

Position Defensive Tackle (run-stuffing)

Current Players at that position Warren Sapp, Tommy Kelly, Terdell Sands

Justification Both Sapp and Kelly are more suited to play "under" tackle in the base 4-3. The Raiders D is on the verge of being VERY good if they can get better against the run. When Sands is in, they seem to play better, but he's only a decent player at best. They need a Haloti Ngata type badly.

Possible players to target (round) not sure

This is the defense's only weak link this year. Fix the offense and this position and the Raiders can get much better very quickly.

 

[coolnerd]

I will do the Texans sometime today.

The Texans are difficult to pin point. The team lacks enough core starting level NFL calibur at too many postions. There can be justification for any 5 or 6 position to be the highest need especially if they finally view David Carr as an average, inconsistent player has proven to be over 70 or so starts. 1. Position : Running BackJustification: Wali Lundy, Ron Dayne, Sam Gado and Chris Taylor. Honorable Mention: Dom Davis. At this moment the Texans don't have a legitmate, healthy starting NFL RB. If Kubiak holds to Denver's form he will not address this at the very top of the draft. The Texans should consider violating this "rule" if Peterson or Lynch are available. the team not only been poor on the field, but has not field an interesting product for its fans, nor placed enough NFL level skill players on its roster. Target: Peterson (1) Lynch (1) Mke Hart (3) Dwayne Wright (4) 2. Postion: Offensive TackleJustification: Ephraim Salaam, Charles Spencer. This has been at the top of the needs list basically every year during the Texans tenure in the NFL. The organization was high on Spencer before he (or Ron Dayne) broke his leg early in the season. There have been mixed reports on his recovery, so keep his eye on this. Even if Spenser is deemed healthy, unless they know more than me about Spencer's health and talent, I would find it hard to pass on OT at the top of the draft.Target: Joe Thomas (1) Levi Brown (1) Sam Baker (1) 3. CornerbackJustification: Demarcus Faggins. The guys behind Faggins are so spare that I won't bother to list them. Faggins is best suited to be a nickle corner unless you have a dynamic front 7 seven to hide him. I hope you know the answer to that. Dunta Robinson is an above average starter with little to no help in the secondary.Target: Leon Hall (1), 4. Free SafetyJustification: CC Brown, Glenn Earl, Jason Simmons. to continue the theme of DBs, the Texans need a legitimate FS. Brown or Earl will be fine as an in the box SS, but both have been forced into pure coverage too often. Target: Laron Landry (1) Reggie Nelson (1)5. Defensive TackleJustification: Seth Payne, travis Johnson. Payne is a solid player injuried way too much and Johnson is on his way to being a first round disappointment (also currently on IR . From the standpoint of marketing a team, another Dt would be hard to shallow. It would mark the 4th straight DL 1st round pick for the Texans. Lots of investment, with not a lot production for this unit.Target: 3 or 4 round types.Other positions:QB- see note above. Also, the signing bonus given Carr before this season could mean another year no matter what.WR- If you believe that an aging Eric Moulds, Kevin Walter and Jerome Mathis are enough to draw any attention from Andre Johnson, think again.OLB- probably should be higher, but you can only do so much in one off season.

 

[rascal]

Team Denver Broncos

Position D-Line

Current Players at that position G Warren, M Myers, E Ekuban, K Lang

Justification Outside Warren everybody they have is a backup player with significant weaknesses (most of which are rushing the passer). Against any good passing offense this defense will struggle despite an above average secondary and LB core.

Possible players to target (round): DE: Gaines Adams (if he falls in round 1), Quentin Moses (round 1), Ray McDonald (round 1), Victor Abiamiri (round 2), Tim Crowder (round 2) DT: Quinn Pitcock (round 1), Amobi Okoye (Round 1), Demarcus Tyler (Round 1), Justin Harrell (Round 2), Marcus Thomas (Round 2)

Team Denver Broncos

Position Safety

Current Players at that position J Lynch and N Ferguson

Justification Lynch is getting really old and becomming a liabiility in the pass. Ferguson is like wise getting old and is an average safety.

Possible players to target (round): Michael Griffin (round 2), Eric Weddle (round 2), John Wendling (Round 2 or 3)

Team Denver Broncos

Position RB

Current Players at that position T Bell and M Bell

Justification Tatum is fragile and M Bell is a career backup.

Possible players to target (round): M Bush (I can dream round 1), K Irons (round 1), Tony Hunt (round 1), Kenneth Darby (Round 2), Dwayne Wright (ROund 2)

 

[Mr. Brownstone]

Team: Jacksonville Jaguars

Position: Defensive End

Current Players at that position: Reggie Heyward (IR), Paul Spicer, Bobby McCray, Brent Hawkins(IR), Marcellus Wiley, James Wyche.

Justification: Reggie Heyward is coming off of a torn achilles tendon. Paul Spicer is solid, Bobby Mcray has shown great flashes, and Brent Hawkins has shown some serious speed, but a playmaker is needed.

 

[diesel7982]

While WR is definitely on the list of needs for Tennessee, its not nearly as severe as CB, MLB or DE.

WMI, what do you think?

See my previous post -- I actually wrote it before I even saw this post.1st -- CB (though, I think we do this via free agency)

2nd --Safety (Landry) Although, I'd SURE like to see what Lowery can do. Every time he's on the field he knocks someone loopy. Would be a great sub if we got a true #1.

3rd -- DE (?, but maybe FA on this one, too.

4th -- WR I think Brandon Jones is about to come into his own. If we can get a co-1 to work with him, I like having Drew and Bobby Wade as the 3/4 kind of guys.

Bottom line -- the offseason can NOT be successful without addressing Safety and Corner. Period.