Top 8 picks in the 2006 NFL draft (1 Viewer)

[Chaos Commish]

Nobody else likes this stuff?

Or am I just so far off that I've killed the thread?

I love this stuff. I've become addicted to this stuff. I spend more time studying the draft than I do on fantasy football. I've never watched so much college football in my life. I've never paid such close attention to LBs and OLs before. This is an extraordinarily deep draft. Maybe as talented as any in memory, though it has a couple weak spots (DB and WR). If the concerns over the CBA prove valid, then expect very few draft eligible high quality Juniors to stay in school at any position, and a host of underclassmen DBs and WRs to jump in and compete with the thin senior class. I don't think you're far off at all. I personally disagree with you about Houston and Bush and D'Brick, but that's just my opinion. Your opinion is more inline with what I am hearing. I write for a fantasy site, and what few connections/sources I had have been parlayed into a couple very good ones for draft info. The following is a quote from my email and from a very respected scout.

2) As for Steve Hutchinson, from what I am told there is no way the Seahawks are letting him go and they are prepared to franchise him if they have to. Also on this front, were they to take Ferguson in the Top 3 picks he could end up costing around the same or even less than Hutchinson because he certainly won't get the same type of money as an offensive lineman that the quarterbacks have received the last couple of years.

3) I totally agree that the Texans won't snag D'Brick #1 overall, the value of the pick is greater than that. I just don't project trades. I think Leinart is still an option there depending on what they do with Carr, but I don't think Bush is a possibility for them (although they might play it likes he is for the sake of trade discussions). If Houston does indeed end up with that top pick they will almost certainly deal down with an eye towards getting Ferguson a little later.

 

[Chaos Commish]

1. Houston Texans - Reggie Bush, RB/KR, USC

2. New York Jets - Matt Leinart, QB, USC

3. Detroit Lions (from SF) - D'brickashaw Ferguson, OT, UVA

4. Green Bay Packers - A.J. Hawk, LB, OSU

5. Tennessee Titans - Marcus McNeill, OT, Auburn

6. New Orleans Saints - Chad Greenway, LB, Iowa

7. Arizona Cardinals - Jimmy Williams, CB, Va Tech

8. Baltimore Ravens - Omar Jacobs, QB, Bowling Green

9. Buffalo Bills - Eric Winston, OT, Miami

10. San Francisco 49ers - Mario Williams, DE, NC St.

We are in a small and disrespected minority by believing Houston should nab Bush there, but I do agree nonetheless, and everyone else can bite me. However, in the real world, and as of now, it appears both the Jets and Texans would likely trade the rights to Bush and Leinart in order to meet needs, stockpile, manage the cap, etc. If it works out this way, I'm very curious as to which teams will move up to grab them.

Apparentley the Jets would have a bigger interest in Bush than Leinart, because of the aforementioned Pennington concerns. There is a long and intriguing list of fine QBs in this draft. Chad will be given another shot to heal and to play, but if his rehab is problematic then the Jets situation could change quickly.

You're one of the first I have seen to slip McNeill ahead of Winston, and to have all three in the top 10. This I agree with, but the remaining depth may hurt the elite OL prospects' value. Eg., Jimmy Williams is more valuable this year because of the weakness at DB, whereas the stud lineman could fall because there's a dozen very good ones that will linger into round three. I'll even guess some team finds a quality starter for there 0-line in the 4th. That is rare.

I think Mario Williams will declare. He has a shot at to be the first defensive player chosen by making a very positive impression in testing (which he should, he's a monster). LB like OL is very deep this year, while supreme pass rushers are a little higher valued on the weaker teams and in this draft.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

I am starting to wonder if Bush is going to have so much hype around him that the Texans will feel forced to take him, despite the glaring needs on the O-line. I think its becoming clearer that they wont take Leinart, and ideally would want to trade down and take a guy like Ferguson, Winston, or McNeill - but now the Bush hype train is in full force, and you're hearing names like Sayers and Faulk routinely thrown out in comparisons, the Texans could get crucified in the local sports press if they pass on him. I think McNair is severely concerned about lack of interest in the team locally, and Ferguson, while meeting a need, won't put butts in the seats. Bush will. As of right now, i would have Bush going to Houston.

Bush would be a short term fix for team interest. Wins are needed or the long term health of his franchise. Bush may put cheeks in the seats for the first half of the season, but if they're 1-7 at that point and people are talking "our o-line STILL sucks" then the polish is off the Bush selection. But if they actually put an O-Line together and at the halfway point are even .500, then people will start believing the franchise is moving in the right direction.But they could hardly be faulted for taking Bush. The man is electric.

Here's a tentative top 10, with an order that might very well be off:

1. Houston Texans - Reggie Bush, RB/KR, USC

2. New York Jets - Matt Leinart, QB, USC

3. Detroit Lions (from SF) - D'brickashaw Ferguson, OT, UVA

4. Green Bay Packers - A.J. Hawk, LB, OSU

5. Tennessee Titans - Marcus McNeill, OT, Auburn

6. New Orleans Saints - Chad Greenway, LB, Iowa

7. Arizona Cardinals - Jimmy Williams, CB, Va Tech

8. Baltimore Ravens - Omar Jacobs, QB, Bowling Green

9. Buffalo Bills - Eric Winston, OT, Miami

10. San Francisco 49ers - Mario Williams, DE, NC St.

That would be a coup for the Lions and may actually keep the fans from burning down Ford Field.What happened to DeAngelo Williams. Wasn't he considered top 10 before last week. If so, why not the Packers?

You think Denny would pass on Omar Jacobs? I know we heard Warner was coming back next year, but Jacobs playing behind him would be an ideal situation for th Cards - similar to Palmer sitting behind Kitna.

 

[Buckna]

I am starting to wonder if Bush is going to have so much hype around him that the Texans will feel forced to take him, despite the glaring needs on the O-line.

I think this is an astute observation and a possibility that scares me. As a Houston homer, all I am hearing from the other casual fans is Reggie Bush this and Reggie Bush that right now. Whomever assumes the coaching position and/or GM spot is going to have to make a tough sell if they decide to trade down or take anyone other than Bush. The hype machine is in full force right now, imagine what it might be after the national championship game if Reggie goes off?Hopefully one of the OT's like Ferguson grades out ridiculously high and will make it a much easier sell to fans and the media.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Hopefully one of the OT's like Ferguson grades out ridiculously high and will make it a much easier sell to fans and the media.

Texans game plan if I'm GM - a) If I can't trade out of #1, draft Ferguson in the first. Eslinger (center, U of MN) in the second.

b) If I trade out of the first, make sure it's not out of the first ten picks. Take McNeill or any of the other top OTs available (Winston, McNeill). Eslinger in the second.

If Ferguson goes #1, and an o-lineman at that position isn't going to get Alex Smith type money, what does that do to Bush and Leinart in financial terms?

If either of them go after a lineman, I have to imagine it costs them quite a bit in terms of where they're slotted, doesn't it?

 

[Bloom]

I am starting to wonder if Bush is going to have so much hype around him that the Texans will feel forced to take him, despite the glaring needs on the O-line. I think its becoming clearer that they wont take Leinart, and ideally would want to trade down and take a guy like Ferguson, Winston, or McNeill - but now the Bush hype train is in full force, and you're hearing names like Sayers and Faulk routinely thrown out in comparisons, the Texans could get crucified in the local sports press if they pass on him. I think McNair is severely concerned about lack of interest in the team locally, and Ferguson, while meeting a need, won't put butts in the seats. Bush will. As of right now, i would have Bush going to Houston.

Bush would be a short term fix for team interest. Wins are needed or the long term health of his franchise. Bush may put cheeks in the seats for the first half of the season, but if they're 1-7 at that point and people are talking "our o-line STILL sucks" then the polish is off the Bush selection. But if they actually put an O-Line together and at the halfway point are even .500, then people will start believing the franchise is moving in the right direction.But they could hardly be faulted for taking Bush. The man is electric.

Here's a tentative top 10, with an order that might very well be off:

1. Houston Texans - Reggie Bush, RB/KR, USC

2. New York Jets - Matt Leinart, QB, USC

3. Detroit Lions (from SF) - D'brickashaw Ferguson, OT, UVA

4. Green Bay Packers - A.J. Hawk, LB, OSU

5. Tennessee Titans - Marcus McNeill, OT, Auburn

6. New Orleans Saints - Chad Greenway, LB, Iowa

7. Arizona Cardinals - Jimmy Williams, CB, Va Tech

8. Baltimore Ravens - Omar Jacobs, QB, Bowling Green

9. Buffalo Bills - Eric Winston, OT, Miami

10. San Francisco 49ers - Mario Williams, DE, NC St.

That would be a coup for the Lions and may actually keep the fans from burning down Ford Field.What happened to DeAngelo Williams. Wasn't he considered top 10 before last week. If so, why not the Packers?

You think Denny would pass on Omar Jacobs? I know we heard Warner was coming back next year, but Jacobs playing behind him would be an ideal situation for th Cards - similar to Palmer sitting behind Kitna.

Jacobs to Arizona would also completely make sense. Warner being the QB next year shouldnt discourage them from taking him if they like him. Williams to the Pack also makes complete sense need wise - i just wonder if he's a quality enough prospect to merit that high of a pick - i guess that he is if brown, caddy, and benson were. I do think that #3 is a likely pick to trade up or down from, especially if they are held by GB and SF. Ferguson looks like the man at #3 as long as his workout confirm his immense athletic ability for such a big man. If Houston is holding #1, either could trade up to snag Bush, and Houston could still get Ferguson + a bevy of extra picks - although i honestly wonder if the Texans image would survive passing on a guy that has the most hype of anyone coming out since Vick, imo. If GB and SF are at 3 and Houston doesnt want to trade down that pick, then they trade down to a team that wants ferguson. OT isnt even in the top 3 needs for either of these teams.

 

[Kiddnets]

So what would it take to trade up and get Bush from the #2-5 picks. I doubt that Houston would want to drop down any further. To flip flop with the #2 pick - maybe a 2nd rd pick? basically 2 picks out of the 1st rd#3 same as above - maybe a sweetener - 4th or 5th#4 and up - 2nd rd this year and #1 pick next year ala NYGiants/EliNot sure how Houston could pass any of these options up.Any thoughts?

 

[Andy Dufresne]

So what would it take to trade up and get Bush from the #2-5 picks. I doubt that Houston would want to drop down any further.

a) To flip flop with the #2 pick - maybe a 2nd rd pick? basically 2 picks out of the 1st rd

b) #3 same as above - maybe a sweetener - 4th or 5th

c) #4 and up - 2nd rd this year and #1 pick next year ala NYGiants/Eli

Not sure how Houston could pass any of these options up.

Any thoughts?

a) If I had assurances that the #2 wasn't trading up to get Ferguson (who would do that anyway?) I'd swap for just about anything. I'd ask for the second rounder, be happy with a third, and settle for anything 4th or higher. What's the difference if you're getting the guy you want, don't have to pay #1 overall money, and end up with an extra pick/picks.b) This year's #1 and #2 and #2 next year.

c) This year's #1 and #2 and next year's #1.

I'd start there and negotiate. But anything that didn't drop me out of the top 5 and got me additional picks I'd entertain.

 

[Chaos Commish]

So what would it take to trade up and get Bush from the #2-5 picks. I doubt that Houston would want to drop down any further.

To flip flop with the #2 pick - maybe a 2nd rd pick? basically 2 picks out of the 1st rd

#3 same as above - maybe a sweetener - 4th or 5th

#4 and up - 2nd rd this year and #1 pick next year ala NYGiants/Eli

Not sure how Houston could pass any of these options up.

Any thoughts?

I've asked this question on sites dedicated to this type of stuff, and I cannot get an answer. Apparently, much of this depends on final scouting grades and who declares as much as the final draft order. Guys like Vince Young and Joe Thomas could really change the picture of the first half of the draft.

 

[Kiddnets]

So what would it take to trade up and get Bush from the #2-5 picks.  I doubt that Houston would want to drop down any further. 

a) To flip flop with the #2 pick - maybe a 2nd rd pick?  basically 2 picks out of the 1st rd

b) #3 same as above - maybe a sweetener - 4th or 5th

c) #4 and up - 2nd rd this year and #1 pick next year ala NYGiants/Eli

Not sure how Houston could pass any of these options up.

Any thoughts?

a) If I had assurances that the #2 wasn't trading up to get Ferguson (who would do that anyway?) I'd swap for just about anything. I'd ask for the second rounder, be happy with a third, and settle for anything 4th or higher. What's the difference if you're getting the guy you want, don't have to pay #1 overall money, and end up with an extra pick/picks.b) This year's #1 and #2 and #2 next year.

c) This year's #1 and #2 and next year's #1.

I'd start there and negotiate. But anything that didn't drop me out of the top 5 and got me additional picks I'd entertain.

This is what I think will happen - If the order ends up as is with NYJ at #2 and SF#3 - I think Houston can get them in a bidding war for Bush and get the same player they want at a better price (and picks) while dropping no lower than #3 since it is practically a given that #2 would be Leinart.

If the Jets are in the #2 spot it will be an interesting decision. Keep the pick and go with the QB and another early 2nd rd pick to help the offense.

or

Send a 2nd rd pick for Bush.

Media will have a frenzy in NY

 

[Andy Dufresne]

When do players have to declare for the draft? I'm very interested in seeing if Quinn, Jacobs, and Young are going to enter.I doubt Young will, but am not certain of the others.I also doubt that the Jets would move out of the #2 spot. They need all the extra picks they can get and I think would stay put at #2 and take whomever the #1 doesn't between Bush and Leinart.

 

[Chaos Commish]

When do players have to declare for the draft?

January 31stETA: That's wrong. I was dyslexic. January 13th.

 

[Chaos Commish]

I'm very interested in seeing if Quinn, Jacobs, and Young are going to enter.

I doubt Young will, but am not certain of the others.

I also doubt that the Jets would move out of the #2 spot. They need all the extra picks they can get and I think would stay put at #2 and take whomever the #1 doesn't between Bush and Leinart.

Quinn has been very adamant about staying. I don't think there is any chance of him declaring. Jacobs and Young are much more likely to come out. Young said he wasn't, but he's also going to talk to the NFL Draft Advisory Board after the Rose Bowl. Several juniors have made comments like Young ("I'm coming back") to deflect the question during the season then changed their minds. Many insiders are very confident Young will declare for the draft despite his comments a few weeks back. Jacobs was a guarantee before the shoulder injury and some think that may have downgraded him enough to stay, but he's losing his best receivers and lineman, and will also be discussing his situation with the Advisory Board. The injury is nothing to worry about. I'd say it's still 50-50 with both of them and 0-100 with Quinn, who wants a national title in the worse way.

 

[cstu]

If the Texans end up in th first pick, they'd be in a tough position.

Do you pay #1 overall money to an offensive lineman? And if you don't, do you take Leinart and gamble that you could keep him alive behind that line.

No way they take a RB.

Their best option would be to trade out of the spot which appears to be much easier to do this year than last as there would be many teams needing the type of player that deserves to go #1 - Leinart or Bush.

I was about to say the same thing here. Houston's new GM will deal down, still get his OL that he wants and get extra picks. They have a lot of holes to fill.As for whomever brought up the OL from Texas, ah I don't think teams will touch any OL after guys like Mike Williams and others have failed terribly in the NFL.

Mike Williams is a good run blocker, but isn't quick enough to be a good pass blocker. The Bills got what they wanted in him (run blocking), but didn't realize his pass blocking would be as bad as it is.

 

[cstu]

I am starting to wonder if Bush is going to have so much hype around him that the Texans will feel forced to take him, despite the glaring needs on the O-line. I think its becoming clearer that they wont take Leinart, and ideally would want to trade down and take a guy like Ferguson, Winston, or McNeill - but now the Bush hype train is in full force, and you're hearing names like Sayers and Faulk routinely thrown out in comparisons, the Texans could get crucified in the local sports press if they pass on him. I think McNair is severely concerned about lack of interest in the team locally, and Ferguson, while meeting a need, won't put butts in the seats. Bush will. As of right now, i would have Bush going to Houston.

Bush would be a short term fix for team interest. Wins are needed or the long term health of his franchise. Bush may put cheeks in the seats for the first half of the season, but if they're 1-7 at that point and people are talking "our o-line STILL sucks" then the polish is off the Bush selection. But if they actually put an O-Line together and at the halfway point are even .500, then people will start believing the franchise is moving in the right direction.But they could hardly be faulted for taking Bush. The man is electric.

Here's a tentative top 10, with an order that might very well be off:

1. Houston Texans - Reggie Bush, RB/KR, USC

2. New York Jets - Matt Leinart, QB, USC

3. Detroit Lions (from SF) - D'brickashaw Ferguson, OT, UVA

4. Green Bay Packers - A.J. Hawk, LB, OSU

5. Tennessee Titans - Marcus McNeill, OT, Auburn

6. New Orleans Saints - Chad Greenway, LB, Iowa

7. Arizona Cardinals - Jimmy Williams, CB, Va Tech

8. Baltimore Ravens - Omar Jacobs, QB, Bowling Green

9. Buffalo Bills - Eric Winston, OT, Miami

10. San Francisco 49ers - Mario Williams, DE, NC St.

That would be a coup for the Lions and may actually keep the fans from burning down Ford Field.What happened to DeAngelo Williams. Wasn't he considered top 10 before last week. If so, why not the Packers?

You think Denny would pass on Omar Jacobs? I know we heard Warner was coming back next year, but Jacobs playing behind him would be an ideal situation for th Cards - similar to Palmer sitting behind Kitna.

Jacobs to Arizona would also completely make sense. Warner being the QB next year shouldnt discourage them from taking him if they like him. Williams to the Pack also makes complete sense need wise - i just wonder if he's a quality enough prospect to merit that high of a pick - i guess that he is if brown, caddy, and benson were. I do think that #3 is a likely pick to trade up or down from, especially if they are held by GB and SF. Ferguson looks like the man at #3 as long as his workout confirm his immense athletic ability for such a big man. If Houston is holding #1, either could trade up to snag Bush, and Houston could still get Ferguson + a bevy of extra picks - although i honestly wonder if the Texans image would survive passing on a guy that has the most hype of anyone coming out since Vick, imo. If GB and SF are at 3 and Houston doesnt want to trade down that pick, then they trade down to a team that wants ferguson. OT isnt even in the top 3 needs for either of these teams.

It worked out for the Chargers. As hard as it is to do, the smart move is to get whatever they can out of their draft position and still get the player they need the most (Ferguson).

 

[noneother]

.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

It worked out for the Chargers. As hard as it is to do, the smart move is to get whatever they can out of their draft position and still get the player they need the most (Ferguson).

How much of a dropoff is it from Ferguson to McNeill, et al?

 

[cstu]

It worked out for the Chargers. As hard as it is to do, the smart move is to get whatever they can out of their draft position and still get the player they need the most (Ferguson).

How much of a dropoff is it from Ferguson to McNeill, et al?

Ferguson is far better than the rest of the linemen available and hasn't had the injury problems that Winston and McNeill have had.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

It worked out for the Chargers.  As hard as it is to do, the smart move is to get whatever they can out of their draft position and still get the player they need the most (Ferguson).

How much of a dropoff is it from Ferguson to McNeill, et al?

Ferguson is far better than the rest of the linemen available and hasn't had the injury problems that Winston and McNeill have had.

I thought Ferguson had some injury problems of his own this year.

 

[cstu]

It worked out for the Chargers. As hard as it is to do, the smart move is to get whatever they can out of their draft position and still get the player they need the most (Ferguson).

How much of a dropoff is it from Ferguson to McNeill, et al?

Ferguson is far better than the rest of the linemen available and hasn't had the injury problems that Winston and McNeill have had.

I thought Ferguson had some injury problems of his own this year.

I missed that but looked it up and he did miss a couple games due to a knee injury this year.

 

[Jason Wood]

It worked out for the Chargers.  As hard as it is to do, the smart move is to get whatever they can out of their draft position and still get the player they need the most (Ferguson).

How much of a dropoff is it from Ferguson to McNeill, et al?

Ferguson is far better than the rest of the linemen available and hasn't had the injury problems that Winston and McNeill have had.

I thought Ferguson had some injury problems of his own this year.

I missed that but looked it up and he did miss a couple games due to a knee injury this year.

It's been tough for OLs in that regard this season...entering 2005's college campaign it was believed this could be the best OL class in ages, but injuries and poor performance has let the air out of that balloon, at least until some of these guys can start rising back up the ranks with solid Pro Days and the Combine.

 

[slimflop]

http://www.gbnreport.com/juniorscoreboard.html

This may help

 

[Chaos Commish]

http://www.gbnreport.com/juniorscoreboard.html

This may help

GBN does a nice job. At least they agree with me on Mario Williams if he declares (top 5, before Hawk). I noticed the declaration date is the 15th. The 13th falls on a Friday, so the NFL is giving them the whole weekend to consider things. Smart. Also notice in that link that 15 of the underclassmen are projected 1st rounders and only two of them are OLs. The point is the more of the underclassmen who declare, the further they drive this talented crop of lineman down the draft board. They're also projecting three DBs into the 2nd if they declare, and I guarantee one of them (Bing, Landry or Gordon) goes in the first because of the scarcity of good DBs.

 

[gufs99]

Updated guess on the order as of today:

HOU

NYJ

GBP

SF

NOS

TEN

DET

OAK

I still say the Texans move that pick. If they can't, the obvioius pick is Ferguson. Not Bush. Not Leinart. Ferguson.If I were the GM and I had to pick at the spots shown here, here's my guess:

HOU - Ferguson (Sounds like they're keeping Carr.)

NYJ - Leinart (Duh. Pennington's done. Deal with it.)

GBP - Bush (Even bigger duh.)

SF - Hawk (Worst D in the league takes best defensive playmaker)

NOS - Greenway (Ditto)

TEN - Jimmy Williams (They play in a division with the Colts. More pass D, please.)

DET - Joe Thomas/Marcus McNeill (QB play dealt with through free agency)

OAK - Mathias Kiwanuka (Run dominated division dictates more defense)

If Brady Quinn and Omar Jacobs declare, this changes.

on the order - i think SF and NYJ are very close in SOS for the 2 spot, but GB is definitely the 4 right now. TEN and NO are also very close in SOS right now. in the 4-8 tier, BAL, BUF, ARI, DET, all look very close. OAK is getting killed by being in the tough AFC west.I am starting to wonder if Bush is going to have so much hype around him that the Texans will feel forced to take him, despite the glaring needs on the O-line. I think its becoming clearer that they wont take Leinart, and ideally would want to trade down and take a guy like Ferguson, Winston, or McNeill - but now the Bush hype train is in full force, and you're hearing names like Sayers and Faulk routinely thrown out in comparisons, the Texans could get crucified in the local sports press if they pass on him. I think McNair is severely concerned about lack of interest in the team locally, and Ferguson, while meeting a need, won't put butts in the seats. Bush will. As of right now, i would have Bush going to Houston.

I also think the 2nd most likely team to end up #1, the Niners, would also take Bush for a lot of the same reasons. It doesnt hurt that Bush and Alex Smith were teammates. The 3rd most likely #1 team, the Jets , well thats much tougher. Leinart and Bush both fill huge needs. The Jets are perfectly poised to jump on Leinart if Bush goes #1, either by having the #2, or trading up from a likely #3 or 4 to Texans or Niners, who would want Bush, but not Leinart.

The Pack is sitting pretty to take the best of the rest - either their #1 rated RB (Williams?), Hawk, Mario Williams (although i think they like Kampman). Im not sure how pressing a need OT is right now with Tauscher and Clifton signed long term, so they could be a very good candidate to trade down with a team that is hot for one of the OTs.

TEN and NO are in perfect position to grab either Hawk or one of the top OTs.

Here's a tentative top 10, with an order that might very well be off:

1. Houston Texans - Reggie Bush, RB/KR, USC

2. New York Jets - Matt Leinart, QB, USC

3. Detroit Lions (from SF) - D'brickashaw Ferguson, OT, UVA

4. Green Bay Packers - A.J. Hawk, LB, OSU

5. Tennessee Titans - Marcus McNeill, OT, Auburn

6. New Orleans Saints - Chad Greenway, LB, Iowa

7. Arizona Cardinals - Jimmy Williams, CB, Va Tech

8. Baltimore Ravens - Omar Jacobs, QB, Bowling Green

9. Buffalo Bills - Eric Winston, OT, Miami

10. San Francisco 49ers - Mario Williams, DE, NC St.

Why the &^%$ would GB take a LB???? We've already got Nick Barnett and Nai'l Diggs and I highly doubt Ted Thompson would be dumb enough to let them go. The Pack has to address either the RB need or the OL need. If not, Curly, Vince and Reggie will be rolling in their graves!

 

[Thorpe]

Winston makes sense for the Bills, but I think they may be a little gun shy about taking an o lineman with their first pick, after the Mike Williams fiasco.I think they go defensive line, and take Haloti Ngata from Oregon, if he is still there. This guy is mammoth, and if he shows any athleticicsm at all at the combine, he could easily find himself in the top 5 (where the Bills would not get him)The Bills are very bad against the run, and a huge run stopper like Ngata would help that a lot, in the tradition of Ted Washington, Sam Adams, and Pat Williams. I don't think Adams will be on the team next year, either.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Winston makes sense for the Bills, but I think they may be a little gun shy about taking an o lineman with their first pick, after the Mike Williams fiasco.

I've never understood that point. Because Mike Williams hasn't played well, they shouldn't draft another o-lineman at the spot he was taken? The Chargers should never draft a QB in the first round because Leaf was a bust?Makes no sense.

 

[Bloom]

Winston makes sense for the Bills, but I think they may be a little gun shy about taking an o lineman with their first pick, after the Mike Williams fiasco.

I think they go defensive line, and take Haloti Ngata from Oregon, if he is still there. This guy is mammoth, and if he shows any athleticicsm at all at the combine, he could easily find himself in the top 5 (where the Bills would not get him)

The Bills are very bad against the run, and a huge run stopper like Ngata would help that a lot, in the tradition of Ted Washington, Sam Adams, and Pat Williams. I don't think Adams will be on the team next year, either.

I love Ngata - although I think he's better suited to play NT in a 3-4. He would be perfect for a team like Cleveland.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Draft order through week 13:1 Houston 1-11 .547 2 New York Jets 2-10 .526 *3 San Francisco 2-10 .552 *4 Green Bay 2-10 .552 5 Tennessee 3-9 .510 6 New Orleans 3-9 .526 7 Buffalo 4-8 .490 8 Cleveland 4-8 .500 *9 Arizona 4-8 .510 *10 Baltimore 4-8 .510 *11 Detroit 4-8 .510 12 Oakland 4-8 .52613 Miami 5-7 .464 14 St. Louis 5-7 .484 15 Philadelphia 5-7 .526 16 Denver (f/WAS) 6-6 .557 17 Minnesota 7-5 .490 18 Atlanta 7-5 .495 19 Pittsburgh 7-5 .500 20 New England 7-5 .505 21 Dallas 7-5 .526 22 Tampa Bay 8-4 .448 *23 New York Giants 8-4 .500 *24 Kansas City 8-4 500 25 San Diego 8-4 .547 26 Chicago 9-3 .443 27 Carolina 9-3 .453 28 Jacksonville 9-3 .458 29 Cincinnati 9-3 .464 30 Denver 9-3 .505 31 Seattle 10-2 .427 32 Indianapolis 12-0 .448 * = Teams Tied The Vikings need to quit this winning crap.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Unless it's a blockbuster, the only teams I can see trading up are Green Bay, Baltimore, or Detroit.Millen could get the city back on his side a bit if he traded for the #1 and took Leinart.

 

[noneother]

Unless it's a blockbuster, the only teams I can see trading up are Green Bay, Baltimore, or Detroit.

Millen could get the city back on his side a bit if he traded for the #1 and took Leinart.

as long as EVERY Free Agent OL is in town too, I would agree. I would hate to see Leinart get destroyed ALA david carr

 

[norseman9375]

Vikings get into the top 10, let the draft timer expire and miss out Hawk/Greenway/ Ryans.

I had almost forgot how funny this joke was.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Vikings get into the top 10, let the draft timer expire and miss out Hawk/Greenway/ Ryans.

I had almost forgot how funny this joke was.

I rememberd exactly how funny that joke was.Speaking of our beloved Vikings. I've changed my mind, they need a running back. Moore just can't stay healthy as a featured back.

 

[BigJim®]

Texans will not have the first pick

First 9 games 5 were against teams 7-2 or better

Last 7 games 4 against 2-7 teams, and only 2 have better than a .500 record

No way that L. White goes ahead of Maroney.

As I've said is a prior post, I could very easily see Maroney sliding, and that's assuming he even comes out after this disappointing season. Maroney had the 3rd highest YPC on his own Gopher team this year (G.Russell 6.6, A. Pinnix 6.1, Maroney 5.5). In addition, Maroney didn't carry the full load this season as expected (shared significant carries with a surprisingly effective Greg Russell) and missed 3+ games with a dinged ankle. I've seen Maroney for 3 years and there's no question he has great skills, but I find it hard to believe any NFL team would have comfort taking this guy as a featured HB, expecting him to stay healthy getting 20-25 carries per game. I would not say the same regarding L.White, who has a more prototypical build to take a pounding as a featured back.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

As I've said is a prior post, I could very easily see Maroney sliding, and that's assuming he even comes out after this disappointing season. Maroney had the 3rd highest YPC on his own Gopher team this year (G.Russell 6.6, A. Pinnix 6.1, Maroney 5.5). In addition, Maroney didn't carry the full load this season as expected (shared significant carries with a surprisingly effective Greg Russell) and missed 3+ games with a dinged ankle. I've seen Maroney for 3 years and there's no question he has great skills, but I find it hard to believe any NFL team would have comfort taking this guy as a featured HB, expecting him to stay healthy getting 20-25 carries per game. I would not say the same regarding L.White, who has a more prototypical build to take a pounding as a featured back.

Maroney, L. 248/1394/10 Russell, Gary 147/968/17

Pinnix, Amir 74/457/1

It's unfair to compare YPC against Pinnix as he's only had 74 total carries. But I agree, this has been a disappointing year for Maroney. He very likely slips in the draft into the 15+ pick category.

 

[Bloom]

Vikings get into the top 10, let the draft timer expire and miss out Hawk/Greenway/ Ryans.

I had almost forgot how funny this joke was.

I rememberd exactly how funny that joke was.Speaking of our beloved Vikings. I've changed my mind, they need a running back. Moore just can't stay healthy as a featured back.

lll keep beating the drum for the Maroney/Vikes marriage. I think it works for many reasons.

 

[cstu]

As I've said is a prior post, I could very easily see Maroney sliding, and that's assuming he even comes out after this disappointing season. Maroney had the 3rd highest YPC on his own Gopher team this year (G.Russell 6.6, A. Pinnix 6.1, Maroney 5.5). In addition, Maroney didn't carry the full load this season as expected (shared significant carries with a surprisingly effective Greg Russell) and missed 3+ games with a dinged ankle. I've seen Maroney for 3 years and there's no question he has great skills, but I find it hard to believe any NFL team would have comfort taking this guy as a featured HB, expecting him to stay healthy getting 20-25 carries per game. I would not say the same regarding L.White, who has a more prototypical build to take a pounding as a featured back.

Maroney, L. 248/1394/10 Russell, Gary 147/968/17

Pinnix, Amir 74/457/1

It's unfair to compare YPC against Pinnix as he's only had 74 total carries. But I agree, this has been a disappointing year for Maroney. He very likely slips in the draft into the 15+ pick category.

to a very lucky team.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

As I've said is a prior post, I could very easily see Maroney sliding, and that's assuming he even comes out after this disappointing season. Maroney had the 3rd highest YPC on his own Gopher team this year (G.Russell 6.6, A. Pinnix 6.1, Maroney 5.5). In addition, Maroney didn't carry the full load this season as expected (shared significant carries with a surprisingly effective Greg Russell) and missed 3+ games with a dinged ankle. I've seen Maroney for 3 years and there's no question he has great skills, but I find it hard to believe any NFL team would have comfort taking this guy as a featured HB, expecting him to stay healthy getting 20-25 carries per game. I would not say the same regarding L.White, who has a more prototypical build to take a pounding as a featured back.

Maroney, L. 248/1394/10 Russell, Gary 147/968/17

Pinnix, Amir 74/457/1

It's unfair to compare YPC against Pinnix as he's only had 74 total carries. But I agree, this has been a disappointing year for Maroney. He very likely slips in the draft into the 15+ pick category.

to a very lucky team.

The biggest question on him coming into the season (I think) was whether or not he could be a home run runner. He answered that with his 93 yard TD run.Now the biggest question is durability. But lots of running backs miss some time with sprained ankles. I think Maroney makes a good pro.

 

[Chaos Commish]

As I've said is a prior post, I could very easily see Maroney sliding, and that's assuming he even comes out after this disappointing season. Maroney had the 3rd highest YPC on his own Gopher team this year (G.Russell 6.6, A. Pinnix 6.1, Maroney 5.5). In addition, Maroney didn't carry the full load this season as expected (shared significant carries with a surprisingly effective Greg Russell) and missed 3+ games with a dinged ankle. I've seen Maroney for 3 years and there's no question he has great skills, but I find it hard to believe any NFL team would have comfort taking this guy as a featured HB, expecting him to stay healthy getting 20-25 carries per game. I would not say the same regarding L.White, who has a more prototypical build to take a pounding as a featured back.

Maroney, L. 248/1394/10 Russell, Gary 147/968/17

Pinnix, Amir 74/457/1

It's unfair to compare YPC against Pinnix as he's only had 74 total carries. But I agree, this has been a disappointing year for Maroney. He very likely slips in the draft into the 15+ pick category.

Pinnix had 30 carries in one game and went over 200 yards. I think that makes the comparison interesting at least. It supports the "system" argument anyway. Maroney needs to post a blazing 40 to support a high pick. I've also heard recently that LenDale will be a top ten pick before Maroney and Williams-- who both have a lot more mileage and health issues.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

It supports the "system" argument anyway.

I don't understand the whole "it's the system" thing. At the very least, it's a combination of both the athlete and the system.If not, teams with crappy players could institute these amazing systems themselves and still compete.

I'm a believer that the players make the system moreso than the system makes the players.

 

[s_ezy]

nice article on yahoo ragarding the upcoming off-season

who the top free agents are

who has money to spend

and other tid-bits

here you go

 

[Kiddnets]

Update with the Houston win? Since Houston/SF play each other - how will that change the top few picks. As a Jet fan who should I root for in this game? Any changes to the big board as far as top players and team needs? Houston sure doesn't look like they need a RB the past few weeks - both DD and Wells look very solid.

 

[Balco]

Hawk isn't even the best linebacker in the draft. That player currently starts for Alabama.

 

[Toxic Gatorade]

Update with the Houston win?

Since Houston/SF play each other - how will that change the top few picks. As a Jet fan who should I root for in this game?

Any changes to the big board as far as top players and team needs? Houston sure doesn't look like they need a RB the past few weeks - both DD and Wells look very solid.

You need to root for the Texans to win.........but it won't happen. And if it does (Capers will screw the team on the way out the door?), the picture gets really cloudy and alot of things can happen. It is possible that the Texans, Packers, Jets, Saints and 49ers end up tied with 3-13 records...........meaning the Saints would jump to the #1 slot due to "lack thereof" strength of schedule.So without complicating things more, as a Jets fan, you want the Saints, Packers, & Texans to win. The Jets have the easier schedule than the 49ers. Here is the strength of schedule percentage.

New Orleans -- .507

Green Bay --- .520

NYJets --- .547

Houston --- .556

San Fran --- .573

New Orleans should lose to TBay today.........GBay has a chance to send Favre out as a winner..........NYJets will have to lose to BUFF, not sure if that will happen........and the Texans/49ers go .

Fun stuff huh????????