The "I can't believe I'm doing one this early but (1 Viewer)

[aardball44]

This weeks installment will be postponed until the conclusion of the Sugar Bowl. The matchup between Quinn & Russell has me all If Quinn adds fuel to the "he can't win big games" fire, he could tumble in the draft. By "tumble" I mean outside the top 10.On the other side, Russell could move himself ahead of Quinn if he clearly outplays him. Wouldn't that be something!?

Matt Millen better remember to TiVo the game. I'd hope he'll want to watch it more than once.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

No Brohm or Bush since they're shrouded in mystery. No McCauley or Hughes either. A guy that was benched can't make the 1st round. Hughes seems overrated.

I'm glad I waited until after last night's game to post this mock. I still think Quinn is a better quarterback, but there's something to be said for athleticism too. Jay Cutler's a better pure QB than Vince Young too but there are differing styles of QB.

1. Oakland - Jamarcus Russell

People are right. Davis is going to love this guy.

2. Detroit - Gaines Adams

I originally had Joe Thomas here, but they're just not going to wrap that much up in tackles. They want to move out of this spot, but in the end end up with Adams anyway.

3. Tampa Bay - Calvin Johnson

Galloway is old and Clayton has put in two disappointing seasons in a row. CJ's talent is just too much to pass up.

4. Cleveland - Brady Quinn

When the quarterback competition is between Frye and Anderson, you need to think long and hard about drafting a QB. If not for Quinn, Notre Dame would have had a losing record.

5. Arizona - Joe Thomas

They luck out and get the guy they absolutely need. As much as I can't stand the guy, I think it was a mistake to fire Denny Green as with Thomas they really start to look deadly on offense.

6. Washington - Alan Branch

The monster in the middle will help out the DE's get a better pass rush.

7. Minnesota - Dwayne Jarrett

Childress has stated he wouldn't take a WR in the 1st. Well fortunately for we Vikings fans, he's not the main decision maker anymore. Speilman is. And with the painfully obvious absence of talent at WR, Jarrett is the ONLY pick that the Vikings faithful will swallow.

8. Houston - Adrian Peterson

Oh my. If Kubiak can actually get production from Ron Dayne, just imagine this!

9. Miami - Darrelle Revis

Their d-backs look terrible to me. In fact, that defense looks like it's about to fall completely apart from age; Carter - 12 years, Traylor - 16 years, Holliday - 9 years, Taylor - 10 years (Threatening retirement), Zach Tomas - 11 years.

10. Atlanta - Laron Landry

The best move this franchise could make is to move one of their QBs before they can't get value for either. As far as drafting goes, safety is of supreme need.

11. San Francisco - Antoine Cason

Defense, defense, defense. Did I read it right? Are they really $40 million under the cap?!

12. Buffalo - Lawrence Timmons

They're going to lose London Fletcher and possibly TKO. And while Willis may get the press, Timmons could be this year's fast riser.

13. St. Louis - Quinn Pitcock

31st against the run. No brainer.

14. Carolina - Justin Blalock

With Morgan cleared to play, the pick of Blalock allows them to move their line around in whatever way fits best.

15. Pittsburgh - Levi Brown

I hate mocking for this team. But Brown is the LT that Roethlisberger really needs.

16. Green Bay - Ted Ginn Jr.

No matter where you slot Ginn, there's going to be someone that chimes in with "OH NO! I'd hate for him to be on my team!" Well too bad. Because he's going to add a dimension to whichever team picks him that the other teams are going to be envious of. And in Green Bay, Driver can't play forever and Ginn would be a nice compliment to Jennings.

17. Jacksonville - Reggie Nelson

I can't see them cutting Lord Byron loose. I just can't. He may not be the best solution, but he's solid enough. Deon Grant did not play well this year and has rejected a contract from the Jags to test free agency.

18. Cincinnati - Amobi Okoye

Hope you enjoyed the success while it lasted, Bengals fans. Your team is about to sink back into the abyss. Are those Tiger stripes on the helmets or fingerprint ridges from the police blotter?

19. Tennessee - Patrick Willis

He simply cannot fall any further. While anything along the D-line is certainly an option, the talented Willis infuses the defense with an energy it just doesn't have now.

20. New York Giants - Leon Hall

He's not the best corner, but he's at least an upgrade to the position.

21. Denver - Marshawn Lynch

And the fantasy football world goes WILD! Skeletor really can't be happy with that rotation he used, can he?

22. New England (from Seattle) - Michael Griffin

Harrison simply gets too injured too often. Griffin is that infusion of youth that's sorely needed.

23. Dallas - Anthony Spencer

A team I hate mocking for even more than the Steelers. I think it's because they're so spectacularly average EVERYWHERE. They need everything yet nothing. Convert Spencer to the pass rushing OLB role and see what happens.

24. Kansas City - DeMarcus Tyler

D-tackle is a huge need.

25. New Orleans - Paul Pozluszny

Linebacking corps is horrible. All Poz will do is make plays.

26. New York Jets - Adam Carriker

Cheating a bit on this one based on comments to Chaos Commish's draft. But in fairness to me, I did have Carriker pegged to go to Dallas, so filling the same need to the Jets seems right to me.

27. Philadelphia - Eric Weddle

The linebacker position they need to fill is the strong side and all the LB's left project to the weak. Weddle is a bit of a reach here but definitely fits the need.

28. New England - Lemarr Woodley

With Woodley and Griffin, they REALLY shore up that aging defense in just the right spots.

29. Indianapolis - Rufus Alexander

Simply a playmaker. A bit undersized, but the Colts aren't picky. Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year in '06 helps tremendously.

30. Baltimore - Troy Smith

And McNair gets to mentor a protege after all. Kyle Boller will never take over this team.

31. Chicago - Joe Staley

Their tackles are 34 and 32. Staley (wouldn't that be ironic if he went to the Bears) would be mentored by two of the best and ready to take over in a year or two.

32. San Diego - Brandon Meriweather

The Chargers have built a pretty solid roster comprised of guys with question marks (See: Castillo, Luis and Merriman, Shawne). From what I've read, his character concerns are overblown.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Glad to see you're all stunned to silence by my brilliance.

 

[Chaos Commish]

Glad to see you're all stunned to silence by my brilliance.

 

[aardball44]

Killer Kowalski said in his Lions blog this week that the Lions are angling for Gaines Adams in the first round. I didn't like hearing it then, and I don't like hearing it now.



If they don't take the Wisconsin OT, they should take JaMarcus. Screw Brady Quinn.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Killer Kowalski said in his Lions blog this week that the Lions are angling for Gaines Adams in the first round. I didn't like hearing it then, and I don't like hearing it now. If they don't take the Wisconsin OT, they should take JaMarcus. Screw Brady Quinn.

Like I said in my writeup, I just can't see them spending all that money on the tackles. They gave Backus something like a $50 million contract didn't they? Maybe that number's high..

 

[Chaos Commish]

Killer Kowalski said in his Lions blog this week that the Lions are angling for Gaines Adams in the first round. I didn't like hearing it then, and I don't like hearing it now. If they don't take the Wisconsin OT, they should take JaMarcus. Screw Brady Quinn.

Like I said in my writeup, I just can't see them spending all that money on the tackles. They gave Backus something like a $50 million contract didn't they? Maybe that number's high..

I have no problem with the Lions passing on Thomas. I'm not as high on Thomas as I was on D'Brick, Justice or McNeill a year ago. I think he fits in nicely with thost guys but doesn't have quite the potential. My problem is watching Adams closely. He's a very nice player. I can see why all the preseason talk for best defender was between Adams and Moses. They are pretty much the EXACT same guy. Moses is a little better athlete. Adams is a little stronger. Adams at #2 and Moses in round 2 makes no sense to me. I had Moses 23rd because I want him in Dallas, but I'm pretty sure I let him fall too far. I had Adams 8th and that felt about right, but early if anything. There's a half dozen of these Adams/Moses players this year and you absolutely can have one early in the second round. There are irreplaceable pieces available when Detroit drafts. Fun mock Andy. I like seeing Russell at the very top after last night. I'm a believer. He goes before Brady and by draft week there will be no doubts like there were with Young Leinart.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

My problem is watching Adams closely. He's a very nice player. I can see why all the preseason talk for best defender was between Adams and Moses. They are pretty much the EXACT same guy. Moses is a little better athlete. Adams is a little stronger. Adams at #2 and Moses in round 2 makes no sense to me. I had Moses 23rd because I want him in Dallas, but I'm pretty sure I let him fall too far. I had Adams 8th and that felt about right, but early if anything. There's a half dozen of these Adams/Moses players this year and you absolutely can have one early in the second round. There are irreplaceable pieces available when Detroit drafts.

We'll have to see how Moses does in the post-season activities. And if Charles Johnson declares, it could be HIM in the top part of round 1 instead of Moses. I almost put Moses to the Vikings. Then I couldn't find anywhere for him at all.And while it may be a stretch for Adams at #2, it's just the type of "let's just stop a minute and outthink ourselves here" type of pick that Millen and the Lions would make.

 

[The_Man]

Great mock. But I see you're still giving Troy Smith to the Ravens.

I feel like there is almost no way this will happen. The team's Scouting Director is on the record saying he's not a starting NFL QB, and the team (Ozzie and Billick both) still think Boller could be a legit NFL QB.

I think the Ravens' biggest needs are at CB and RB, and maybe LB with Ray getting old and Adalius Thomas a likely free agency departure. The Ravens are very good at picking RBs and LBs, so I'd look for them to grab one here.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Great mock. But I see you're still giving Troy Smith to the Ravens.I feel like there is almost no way this will happen. The team's Scouting Director is on the record saying he's not a starting NFL QB, and the team (Ozzie and Billick both) still think Boller could be a legit NFL QB.I think the Ravens' biggest needs are at CB and RB, and maybe LB with Ray getting old and Adalius Thomas a likely free agency departure. The Ravens are very good at picking RBs and LBs, so I'd look for them to grab one here.

I think it's a smoke screen.But you're right. The other options I considered were Hughes/McCauley at CB and someone like Buster Davis or Quentin Moses at LB.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Fun mock Andy. I like seeing Russell at the very top after last night. I'm a believer. He goes before Brady and by draft week there will be no doubts like there were with Young Leinart.

Hey wait a minute...When you say "fun", does that imply "but not very accurate?"

 

[Milwaukees_best]

Killer Kowalski said in his Lions blog this week that the Lions are angling for Gaines Adams in the first round. I didn't like hearing it then, and I don't like hearing it now. If they don't take the Wisconsin OT, they should take JaMarcus. Screw Brady Quinn.

Like I said in my writeup, I just can't see them spending all that money on the tackles. They gave Backus something like a $50 million contract didn't they? Maybe that number's high..

I have no problem with the Lions passing on Thomas. I'm not as high on Thomas as I was on D'Brick, Justice or McNeill a year ago. I think he fits in nicely with thost guys but doesn't have quite the potential. My problem is watching Adams closely. He's a very nice player. I can see why all the preseason talk for best defender was between Adams and Moses. They are pretty much the EXACT same guy. Moses is a little better athlete. Adams is a little stronger. Adams at #2 and Moses in round 2 makes no sense to me. I had Moses 23rd because I want him in Dallas, but I'm pretty sure I let him fall too far. I had Adams 8th and that felt about right, but early if anything. There's a half dozen of these Adams/Moses players this year and you absolutely can have one early in the second round. There are irreplaceable pieces available when Detroit drafts. Fun mock Andy. I like seeing Russell at the very top after last night. I'm a believer. He goes before Brady and by draft week there will be no doubts like there were with Young Leinart.

Great Mock Draft! Little more on the Adams vs Moses debate. Just my opinion, but Adams clearly has the frame to add more weight to withstand the NFL. Moses frame is a little longer and wirey and he might end up as a dreaded "Tweener" although thats not always bad.

 

[Chaos Commish]

My problem is watching Adams closely. He's a very nice player. I can see why all the preseason talk for best defender was between Adams and Moses. They are pretty much the EXACT same guy. Moses is a little better athlete. Adams is a little stronger. Adams at #2 and Moses in round 2 makes no sense to me. I had Moses 23rd because I want him in Dallas, but I'm pretty sure I let him fall too far. I had Adams 8th and that felt about right, but early if anything. There's a half dozen of these Adams/Moses players this year and you absolutely can have one early in the second round. There are irreplaceable pieces available when Detroit drafts.

We'll have to see how Moses does in the post-season activities. And if Charles Johnson declares, it could be HIM in the top part of round 1 instead of Moses. I almost put Moses to the Vikings. Then I couldn't find anywhere for him at all.And while it may be a stretch for Adams at #2, it's just the type of "let's just stop a minute and outthink ourselves here" type of pick that Millen and the Lions would make.

It is rumored the Saints would have taken Hawk if Bush didn't fall in their laps. So, Adams at #2 would happen for almost the same reasoning... bad reasoning I think.

 

[Chaos Commish]

Great mock. But I see you're still giving Troy Smith to the Ravens.I feel like there is almost no way this will happen. The team's Scouting Director is on the record saying he's not a starting NFL QB, and the team (Ozzie and Billick both) still think Boller could be a legit NFL QB.I think the Ravens' biggest needs are at CB and RB, and maybe LB with Ray getting old and Adalius Thomas a likely free agency departure. The Ravens are very good at picking RBs and LBs, so I'd look for them to grab one here.

I think it's a smoke screen.But you're right. The other options I considered were Hughes/McCauley at CB and someone like Buster Davis or Quentin Moses at LB.

Every fan who sees Troy Smith as first rounder for their team will probably protest. Those of us willing to try and mock this thing are in a tough spot. This will all be easier if Leak outplays him and Florida blows out the Buckeyes.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Every fan who sees Troy Smith as first rounder for their team will probably protest.

Nobody will want Smith & Ginn until they're on the other guy's team.

 

[diesel7982]

Killer Kowalski said in his Lions blog this week that the Lions are angling for Gaines Adams in the first round. I didn't like hearing it then, and I don't like hearing it now. If they don't take the Wisconsin OT, they should take JaMarcus. Screw Brady Quinn.

Like I said in my writeup, I just can't see them spending all that money on the tackles. They gave Backus something like a $50 million contract didn't they? Maybe that number's high..

I think Ive written this in every mock draft thread that has Thomas going that highBackus is being paid as a top 7-8 OT in the league. Hes not a RT. Why pay Thomas #2 OA money to play RT?They will not take him. And the Lions taking Russell would be a ridiculously bad fit. Put a big QB who's strength is going downfield in an offense mainly based on shorter timing routes. Excellent.

 

[Chaos Commish]

And if Charles Johnson declares,

Charles Johnson declared (about three hours after I predicted it here) He showed up Moses (barely) and that's what he needed to do. Moses was also very good though. Deep down, I have to confess, the Georgia bookend racehorses are the two best DEs I've seen. Moses napped some this year and mostly took it easy, but he is now and always has been better than Adams. Whew, feels good to get that off my chest.

 

[diesel7982]

Every fan who sees Troy Smith as first rounder for their team will probably protest.

Nobody will want Smith & Ginn until they're on the other guy's team.

Smith will be an all-time bust if he goes in the 1st round. I can't believe hes being mocked there.Ginn will probably also go too highly, and remind people of what a reach Troy Williamson was, for the exact same reasons.

 

[Kilgore Trout]

14. Carolina - Justin Blalock

With Morgan cleared to play, the pick of Blalock allows them to move their line around in whatever way fits best.

This sounds right for the Panthers, but they may also look at Reggie Nelson (or Landry if available) with their current safeties due to recieve social security next year.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

And if Charles Johnson declares,

Charles Johnson declared (about three hours after I predicted it here) He showed up Moses (barely) and that's what he needed to do. Moses was also very good though. Deep down, I have to confess, the Georgia bookend racehorses are the two best DEs I've seen. Moses napped some this year and mostly took it easy, but he is now and always has been better than Adams. Whew, feels good to get that off my chest.

I'll have to watch these guys more closely. The best case scenario for my Vikings is that the DE's perform well enough to warrant being taken at the #7. As I fan, I'd rather see them go DE/WR with their 1st and 2nds than any other combination.

 

[Chaos Commish]

And if Charles Johnson declares,

Charles Johnson declared (about three hours after I predicted it here) He showed up Moses (barely) and that's what he needed to do. Moses was also very good though. Deep down, I have to confess, the Georgia bookend racehorses are the two best DEs I've seen. Moses napped some this year and mostly took it easy, but he is now and always has been better than Adams. Whew, feels good to get that off my chest.

I'll have to watch these guys more closely. The best case scenario for my Vikings is that the DE's perform well enough to warrant being taken at the #7. As I fan, I'd rather see them go DE/WR with their 1st and 2nds than any other combination.

It's funny now but I got ripped a new one by a Vikes fan (in a nasty PM) for mocking Kiwanuka to them a year ago.

 

[diesel7982]

Killer Kowalski said in his Lions blog this week that the Lions are angling for Gaines Adams in the first round. I didn't like hearing it then, and I don't like hearing it now. <_< If they don't take the Wisconsin OT, they should take JaMarcus. Screw Brady Quinn.

Like I said in my writeup, I just can't see them spending all that money on the tackles. They gave Backus something like a $50 million contract didn't they? Maybe that number's high..

I think Ive written this in every mock draft thread that has Thomas going that highBackus is being paid as a top 7-8 OT in the league. Hes not a RT. Why pay Thomas #2 OA money to play RT?They will not take him. And the Lions taking Russell would be a ridiculously bad fit. Put a big QB who's strength is going downfield in an offense mainly based on shorter timing routes. Excellent.

from rotoworld.com

The Lions are reportedly not interested in drafting a running back, quarterback, or wide receiver in the first round of the 2007 NFL Draft.Kevin Jones (foot) is reportedly on track for Week 1 and Detroit will target Clemson DE Gaines Adams to play opposite James Hall, or Wisconsin’s Joe Thomas, who’d presumably play right tackle or guard instead of moving Jeff Backus. An inside linebacker is another possibility at No. 2.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Smith will be an all-time bust if he goes in the 1st round. I can't believe hes being mocked there.

"All-time" busts don't occur from the last part of the first.And regardless, he won't bust.

Ginn will probably also go too highly, and remind people of what a reach Troy Williamson was, for the exact same reasons.

Williamson is not a good comparison for Ginn.

 

[diesel7982]

Smith will be an all-time bust if he goes in the 1st round. I can't believe hes being mocked there.

"All-time" busts don't occur from the last part of the first.And regardless, he won't bust.

Ginn will probably also go too highly, and remind people of what a reach Troy Williamson was, for the exact same reasons.

Williamson is not a good comparison for Ginn.

Jim Druckenmiller would disagree.And yes, Troy Smith is not an NFL QB.

Williamson is as good a comparison as there is for Ginn, except Troy might have better hands.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

And if Charles Johnson declares,

Charles Johnson declared (about three hours after I predicted it here) He showed up Moses (barely) and that's what he needed to do. Moses was also very good though. Deep down, I have to confess, the Georgia bookend racehorses are the two best DEs I've seen. Moses napped some this year and mostly took it easy, but he is now and always has been better than Adams. Whew, feels good to get that off my chest.

I'll have to watch these guys more closely. The best case scenario for my Vikings is that the DE's perform well enough to warrant being taken at the #7. As I fan, I'd rather see them go DE/WR with their 1st and 2nds than any other combination.

It's funny now but I got ripped a new one by a Vikes fan (in a nasty PM) for mocking Kiwanuka to them a year ago.

In fairness, Erasmus James hadn't torn his ACL a year ago either.He was really coming on in the pre-season. His recovery would mean that Udeze could go back to his regular position on the other side and the Vikes could use the 1st rounder elsewhere.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Jim Druckenmiller would disagree.And yes, Troy Smith is not an NFL QB.

You include Jim Druckenmiller in your list of all time busts? Pretty liberal criteria I guess.

Williamson is as good a comparison as there is for Ginn, except Troy might have better hands.

Wow. Harsh.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

Williamson is as good a comparison as there is for Ginn, except Troy might have better hands.

Wow. Harsh.

and Ginn has no problems with hand/eye coordination - ball tracking, which is a bigger problem for Williamson than his hands.Otherwise, I think the comparison is apt, both are burners with elite quickness.

 

[The_Man]

I heard the Ravens Scouting Director talk about Troy Smith one night about a month ago when he filled in on Billick's weekly Tuesday night radio talk show because Billick was too busy prepping the team on a short week for the Thursday Night game vs. Cincy.

A fan called in and asked about him. The Scouting Director said that he thought that somebody would take Smith late in the 2nd or somewhere in the 3rd round, that he had better arm strength than a lot of people thought, but that he did not project (in the Ravens' opinion) as an NFL starter, but would be a good back-up.

Didn't sound like a smokescreen at all to me, just an honest opinion when asked. The Ravens have a great first round draft history, with the glaring exception of Kyle Boller. I don't see them rushing to take another iffy QB. The last two times they had late first round picks, they ended up with Ed Reed and Todd Heap. They also got Ray Lewis at #27 or 28.

Their philosophy is always to take the best player available, regardless of position, and I think that's been particularly true when picking late in the first round -- there are still outstanding players there, particularly if you aren't worried about trying to fill a need.

I'm really thinking they might end up going RB. Jamal is done (and is playing on what is essentially a 1-year deal anyway), Mike Anderson is old, and Musa Smith is always hurt. They should be able to get a quality RB at #32.

Which is where I hope they'll be picking.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

I heard the Ravens Scouting Director talk about Troy Smith one night about a month ago when he filled in on Billick's weekly Tuesday night radio talk show because Billick was too busy prepping the team on a short week for the Thursday Night game vs. Cincy.A fan called in and asked about him. The Scouting Director said that he thought that somebody would take Smith late in the 2nd or somewhere in the 3rd round, that he had better arm strength than a lot of people thought, but that he did not project (in the Ravens' opinion) as an NFL starter, but would be a good back-up.Didn't sound like a smokescreen at all to me, just an honest opinion when asked. The Ravens have a great first round draft history, with the glaring exception of Kyle Boller. I don't see them rushing to take another iffy QB. The last two times they had late first round picks, they ended up with Ed Reed and Todd Heap. They also got Ray Lewis at #27 or 28.Their philosophy is always to take the best player available, regardless of position, and I think that's been particularly true when picking late in the first round -- there are still outstanding players there, particularly if you aren't worried about trying to fill a need.I'm really thinking they might end up going RB. Jamal is done (and is playing on what is essentially a 1-year deal anyway), Mike Anderson is old, and Musa Smith is always hurt. They should be able to get a quality RB at #32.Which is where I hope they'll be picking.

Okay, fine. In future mocks, I promise not to put Troy Smith to the Ravens.As far as late 1st RBs go, I have difficulty seeing anyone outside Peterson & Lynch cracking the first round. Who would you see as an option?

 

[WampusCat43]

18. Cincinnati - Amobi Okoye

Hope you enjoyed the success while it lasted, Bengals fans. Your team is about to sink back into the abyss. Are those Tiger stripes on the helmets or fingerprint ridges from the police blotter?

I like the pick (a lot), but this is just an ignorant, pointless statement. Check their schedule for next year.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

18. Cincinnati - Amobi Okoye

Hope you enjoyed the success while it lasted, Bengals fans. Your team is about to sink back into the abyss. Are those Tiger stripes on the helmets or fingerprint ridges from the police blotter?

I like the pick (a lot), but this is just an ignorant, pointless statement. Check their schedule for next year.

I don't care what their schedule is. The defensive side of the ball is on the verge of implosion. Losing Thurman and likely Pollack is not good. And the well documented character issues cannot be discounted.Too bad too. I like Ocho Cinco, Palmer, and Rudi.

 

[Chaos Commish]

I heard the Ravens Scouting Director talk about Troy Smith one night about a month ago when he filled in on Billick's weekly Tuesday night radio talk show because Billick was too busy prepping the team on a short week for the Thursday Night game vs. Cincy.A fan called in and asked about him. The Scouting Director said that he thought that somebody would take Smith late in the 2nd or somewhere in the 3rd round, that he had better arm strength than a lot of people thought, but that he did not project (in the Ravens' opinion) as an NFL starter, but would be a good back-up.Didn't sound like a smokescreen at all to me, just an honest opinion when asked. The Ravens have a great first round draft history, with the glaring exception of Kyle Boller. I don't see them rushing to take another iffy QB. The last two times they had late first round picks, they ended up with Ed Reed and Todd Heap. They also got Ray Lewis at #27 or 28.Their philosophy is always to take the best player available, regardless of position, and I think that's been particularly true when picking late in the first round -- there are still outstanding players there, particularly if you aren't worried about trying to fill a need.I'm really thinking they might end up going RB. Jamal is done (and is playing on what is essentially a 1-year deal anyway), Mike Anderson is old, and Musa Smith is always hurt. They should be able to get a quality RB at #32.Which is where I hope they'll be picking.

Okay, fine. In future mocks, I promise not to put Troy Smith to the Ravens.As far as late 1st RBs go, I have difficulty seeing anyone outside Peterson & Lynch cracking the first round. Who would you see as an option?

Why. I love the young version of McNair being tutored by the old worn out version. We have one quote being reported about early comments from one source in the organization. One thing I reported last year about the Ravens is they have a ton of talent in that scouting department and all opinions are carefully weighed all the way through April. These guys have just begun to really study the tape and they've probably gone through more tape than any other team. One thing I can guarantee you is no one outside or inside of the Ravens organization knows for a fact that Troy Smith will or won't be a first rounder in Baltimore no matter what the current inside analysis. We don't have as far to go as we did a month ago, but the real draft season has not yet begun.

 

[rascal]

Okoye needs to fall to denver @ 21. I think DT/DE is a bigger need then CB. They still have foxworth and paymah at CB who were both getting lots of playing time towards the end of the season.

I think at SS they are okay with Sam Brandon as the apparent heir, but they need a FS for the future. I kinda wish they would after D Grant of Jags or K Hamlin of seattle.

Not sure about Lynch going to Denver though after looking at some tape recently. I can't remember who it was on here, but they pointed out his style wasn't suited for the Broncos and after watching I think I agree.

 

[johnnyfb]

Not sure about Lynch going to Denver though after looking at some tape recently. I can't remember who it was on here, but they pointed out his style wasn't suited for the Broncos and after watching I think I agree.

Very true. Trying not to be a Cal homer here, but I would die if Lynch ended up in Denver - there's just too much to be sorted out there. I agree that Houston's pick might be too early for him... maybe Green Bay or the Jets?I also liked the original Daymeion Hughes draft pick by New England - the Pats have had some success drafting Cal players, especially on the O-Line - and they may be tempted to take him in the first (or early in the 2nd).

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Not sure about Lynch going to Denver though after looking at some tape recently. I can't remember who it was on here, but they pointed out his style wasn't suited for the Broncos and after watching I think I agree.

Very true. Trying not to be a Cal homer here, but I would die if Lynch ended up in Denver - there's just too much to be sorted out there. I agree that Houston's pick might be too early for him... maybe Green Bay or the Jets?

Seriously? He seemed perfectly suited from what I can tell.

I also liked the original Daymeion Hughes draft pick by New England - the Pats have had some success drafting Cal players, especially on the O-Line - and they may be tempted to take him in the first (or early in the 2nd).

Throw some names in a hat and pick two. You probably have as good of a chance of being right as any. Pats are tough to mock.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

32. San Diego - Brandon Meriweather Robert Meachem

The Chargers have built a pretty solid roster comprised of guys with question marks (See: Castillo, Luis and Merriman, Shawne). From what I've read, his character concerns are overblown.

Gotta like the idea of pairing Meachem with an emerging Vincent Jackson. How would you defend this team with Jackson/Meachem/Gates/Tomlinson on the field. This team is young and has the makings of a dynasty.

Altered. Chargers can get their FS in the 2nd. Possibly a guy like John Wendling from Wyoming.

 

[QUEZILLA]

Simeon Rice is going to end up in Detroit.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Simeon Rice is going to end up in Detroit.

Free agency is going to affect a lot of this. What if they got Rice and drafted Alan Branch. It appears that that would be two extremely significant upgrades to that awful defense.How did the Lions DTs play this year?

 

[QUEZILLA]

Simeon Rice is going to end up in Detroit.

Free agency is going to affect a lot of this. What if they got Rice and drafted Alan Branch. It appears that that would be two extremely significant upgrades to that awful defense.How did the Lions DTs play this year?

I could see the Buc's trading Detroit Simeon to move up 1 or 2 spots to secure CJ or Joe Thomas. Simeon is under contract for 1 more year, and it's the last year of a back loaded contract. 10 mil hit The Buc's might as well get something for him, because he will definitely bolt for FA next year.

 

[Chaos Commish]

32. San Diego - Brandon Meriweather Robert Meachem

The Chargers have built a pretty solid roster comprised of guys with question marks (See: Castillo, Luis and Merriman, Shawne). From what I've read, his character concerns are overblown.

Gotta like the idea of pairing Meachem with an emerging Vincent Jackson. How would you defend this team with Jackson/Meachem/Gates/Tomlinson on the field. This team is young and has the makings of a dynasty.

Altered. Chargers can get their FS in the 2nd. Possibly a guy like John Wendling from Wyoming.

Wendling is going to do an Archuleta impersonation at the Combine, but I can assure you this is a SS special teams physical freak. All the speed in the world isn't going to help him cover wide receivers with the ability to change direction even in the slightest, or even those rascally wide receivers who fake like they might change directions! Those dirty dogs make Wendling fall down go boom.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

32. San Diego - Brandon Meriweather Robert Meachem

The Chargers have built a pretty solid roster comprised of guys with question marks (See: Castillo, Luis and Merriman, Shawne). From what I've read, his character concerns are overblown.

Gotta like the idea of pairing Meachem with an emerging Vincent Jackson. How would you defend this team with Jackson/Meachem/Gates/Tomlinson on the field. This team is young and has the makings of a dynasty.

Altered. Chargers can get their FS in the 2nd. Possibly a guy like John Wendling from Wyoming.

Wendling is going to do an Archuleta impersonation at the Combine, but I can assure you this is a SS special teams physical freak. All the speed in the world isn't going to help him cover wide receivers with the ability to change direction even in the slightest, or even those rascally wide receivers who fake like they might change directions! Those dirty dogs make Wendling fall down go boom.

Oooookay. So count CC as one of those not in Wendling's camp.

 

[Chaos Commish]

32. San Diego - Brandon Meriweather Robert Meachem

The Chargers have built a pretty solid roster comprised of guys with question marks (See: Castillo, Luis and Merriman, Shawne). From what I've read, his character concerns are overblown.

Gotta like the idea of pairing Meachem with an emerging Vincent Jackson. How would you defend this team with Jackson/Meachem/Gates/Tomlinson on the field. This team is young and has the makings of a dynasty.

Altered. Chargers can get their FS in the 2nd. Possibly a guy like John Wendling from Wyoming.

Wendling is going to do an Archuleta impersonation at the Combine, but I can assure you this is a SS special teams physical freak. All the speed in the world isn't going to help him cover wide receivers with the ability to change direction even in the slightest, or even those rascally wide receivers who fake like they might change directions! Those dirty dogs make Wendling fall down go boom.

Oooookay. So count CC as one of those not in Wendling's camp.

Not as a FS. He is like Archuleta, and he can make it as a run support SS with great measureables, and maybe be a very good pro in that capacity. Archuleta did okay for himself. He just doesn't have the hips and fluid coordination needed to play FS, imo.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

I like Meachem in the first, he's likely to be there in the next Bloomock

 

[Chaos Commish]

I like Meachem in the first, he's likely to be there in the next Bloomock

I agree. I'm toying with the idea of a "bunch" of wide receivers going in round one. If it's how they grade. If it's a weak class elsewhere. Why not? Few NFL teams are totally set and happy at WR, and this class could be unreal with a few more declaring eligible.

 

[Ilov80s]

Simeon Rice is going to end up in Detroit.

Free agency is going to affect a lot of this. What if they got Rice and drafted Alan Branch. It appears that that would be two extremely significant upgrades to that awful defense.How did the Lions DTs play this year?

The Lions DT situation was kind of a mess. Shaun Rogers, who is one of the most talented DTS in the league is also one of the laziest and most unprofessional DTs in the league. He only played in 6 games this year- mostly due to off-field issues. Cory Redding (a lifelong DE) converted to DT and actually was one of the few defensive brightspots for the Lions. As for DE, the Lions just gave a massive contract to Kalimba Edwards- who is nothing more then a situational pass rusher. Can they afford to invest even more into the DE position?I am still favoring LT Thomas. The Lions' o-line has been the teams biggest weakness during the Millen regime. I don't see any reason why not to move Backus to the right and start Thomas on the left.

 

[Ilov80s]

Killer Kowalski said in his Lions blog this week that the Lions are angling for Gaines Adams in the first round. I didn't like hearing it then, and I don't like hearing it now.



If they don't take the Wisconsin OT, they should take JaMarcus. Screw Brady Quinn.

Like I said in my writeup, I just can't see them spending all that money on the tackles. They gave Backus something like a $50 million contract didn't they? Maybe that number's high..

And the Lions taking Russell would be a ridiculously bad fit. Put a big QB who's strength is going downfield in an offense mainly based on shorter timing routes. Excellent.

Martz's offense is certainly not based on short timing routes. Martz likes to go downfield.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

I like Meachem in the first, he's likely to be there in the next Bloomock

I agree. I'm toying with the idea of a "bunch" of wide receivers going in round one. If it's how they grade. If it's a weak class elsewhere. Why not? Few NFL teams are totally set and happy at WR, and this class could be unreal with a few more declaring eligible.

It certainly bodes well for my Vikings. I'll take a helping of Jarrett in the first and whoever falls/emerges in the second (Meachem, Bowe, Higgins) for dessert please.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Mini-update:

1. Oakland - Jamarcus Russell

2. Detroit - Gaines Adams

3. Tampa Bay - Calvin Johnson

4. Cleveland - Brady Quinn

5. Arizona - Joe Thomas

6. Washington - Alan Branch

***7. Minnesota - Jamaal Anderson

Dwayne Jarrett out. Addition of Rice & Meachem makes the Vikes think they can wait until round 2 or later for WR.

8. Houston - Adrian Peterson

9. Miami - Darrelle Revis

10. Atlanta - Laron Landry

***11. San Francisco - Dwayne Jarrett

Antoine Cason out. Yes, the team needs defense, but also needs offensive playmakers.

12. Buffalo - Lawrence Timmons

13. St. Louis - Quinn Pitcock

14. Carolina - Justin Blalock

15. Pittsburgh - Levi Brown

***16. Green Bay - Sidney Rice

Ted Ginn out. Rice is a better fit for that offense.

17. Jacksonville - Reggie Nelson

18. Cincinnati - Amobi Okoye

19. Tennessee - Patrick Willis

20. New York Giants - Leon Hall

***21. Denver - DeMarcus Tyler

Marshawn Lynch out. Need more help on d-line.

***22. Dallas - Antoine Cason

Anthony Spencer out. Other than Newman, they have nothing in that D-backfield. At this point, Cason is a placeholder as it could be someone like McCauley or Hughes.

***23. Kansas City - Glen Dorsey

Demarcus Tyler out (taken). They better hope he declares or they will miss out on an area of dire need (DT) in a year with a lot of blue chippers.

24. New England (from Seattle) - Michael Griffin

25. New Orleans - Paul Pozluszny

***26. New York Jets - Marshawn Lynch

Adam Carriker out. Washington has looked okay, but is not an every down back. This is a match made in heaven.

27. Philadelphia - Eric Weddle

28. New England - Lemarr Woodley

29. Indianapolis - Rufus Alexander

***30. Baltimore - Anthony Spencer

Troy Smith out. This assumes Thomas leaving.

31. Chicago - Joe Staley

32. San Diego - Robert Meachem

Bumped out of the 1st

Troy Smith

Adam Carriker

Ted Ginn Jr.

 

[-OZ-]

4. Cleveland - Brady Quinn8. Houston - Adrian PetersonBumped out of the 1stTed Ginn Jr.

Cleveland and Houston seem to be the easiest to agree on. The rest seem a mess to me. Not your mock, but overall. I can't make much sense of the draft at this point. Certainly not enough to put together a good mock. (so kudos to those who can)Why did you bump Ginn out of the 1st? Seems a lock IMO.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Cleveland and Houston seem to be the easiest to agree on. The rest seem a mess to me. Not your mock, but overall. I can't make much sense of the draft at this point. Certainly not enough to put together a good mock. (so kudos to those who can)

A lot of it will be rendered moot after free agency anyway. But in the meantime, it's fun (to me) to speculate because it makes me know who the guys are that are coming out that I didn't pay attention to during the season.

Why did you bump Ginn out of the 1st? Seems a lock IMO.

I didn't bump him out. Sidney Rice and Robert Meachem did. I really don't know where he'll end up. Some people wonder what you do with a drunken sailor, where I wonder what to do with Ted Ginn. I think his questionable hands could scare teams away.