3pointstance: April 2008

Sunday, April 27, 2008

Day 2 Utterings

- Detroit goes RB finally
After spending the night examining their board and roster, Detroit traded up to the top of the third to grab RB Kevin Smith of UCF. Smith will have the chance to start straight away.

- Panthers get top value
By nabbing Penn St LB Dan Connor in the middle of the third, the Panther get a steal. Some draft gurus had the panthers taking Connor in the first, so a huge win for Carolina.

- Manningham finally off the board
It took the 32nd pick of the 3rd round, but WR Mario Manningham is heading to the Giants. I would say this could be one of potentially best value picks for first round talent, obviously something concerned teams to have him slide.

- Ravens get a fighter
Notre Dame Safety Tom Zbikowski heads to Baltimore. with the Ravens getting one of the toughest rookies around. It will be on special teams early that TZ gets a chance.

- Slaton to play a role in Houston
The Texans chose former Heisman candidate Steve Slaton to add depth and variety to their backfield. Expect them to use him as a third down back early.

- Patriots go QB
Many thought the Patriots would consider a QB in this draft and Kevin O'Connell in the 3rd was an interesting pick. The Pats have a good eye for QB talent mid to late, just see Brady, so O'Connell showed his sleeper value here. Some believe O'Connell has the game and smarts to develop into Brady's eventual replacement.

- More WR in Stripes
With the WR group in flux, the Bengals added Florida's Andre Caldwell. Caldwell is not only a strong player, but of sound character, avoiding issues the Bengals don't need.

- Great CB Value in 4th
Justin King to the Rams in the 4th is a steal for St Louis. The Penn State defender was highly rated on many boards, I had him with a 2nd round grade. The Eagles made one of the most interesting picks, one with amazing upside, going for Jack Ikegwuonu of Louisville. Ikegwuonu was rated the #1 CB in NCAA until a broken leg at the start of his senior year, so first round talent the reward at the risk of a 4th. I would take that risk.

- 2 RB for Dallas
The Cowboys, after adding Felix Jones on Day 1, picked up another of the best in the draft with Georgia Tech's Tashard CHoice. Choice is potentially an every downs back as a backup option. Still no WR drafting for Big D.

- QB's emerge in Round 5
JD Booty finally got the nod, a bit later than expected, heading to Minnesota at the top of Round 5. This is a good fit for the Vikings, getting a Pro ready QB for their West Coast offense. Booty should be competing for the #2 spot by the start of the year and giving Tarvaris Jackson some young competition. Pittsburgh took the punt on Dennis Dixon who was in the middle of a standout senior year in Oregon before a blown out knee cost him a Heisman. It will be interesting to see how they project him. Tampa got another QB, choosing Josh Johnson of SD State to add to their stable. Erik Ainge gave the Jets some value in late 5th, although I am surprised of all QB's the Jets went for Ainge, who reminds me of Pennington. Hawaii's Colt Brennan found his way to Washington, where he should fit Jim Zorn's offense.

- LB's still on the board
Wesley Woodyard, Erin Henderson, Nick Watkins, J Leman, Ali Highsmith, Ben Moffitt all remain on the board late in the 6th. Very interesting. I had Woodyard and Henderson gone 2/3rd round. Most amazingly is the plight of Ali Highsmith, the All American National Championship winner, who since the end of the season has plummeted due to poor workouts and measurables. But he is a player and someone will get some value in the 7th.

- UFA Scramble Likely
With some good players still out there late in the 6th, expect the UFA phones to run hot. Safeties like Jamar Adams and Josh Barrett (who i can't believe is still there) would be prime targets.

- I picked it
Mike Hart to Indianapolis. I thought he would be a perfect fit as backup to Addai with Zone running skills and pass catching ability. I also picked another of the Colts players - OL Steve Justice (I did have him going 3 rounds earlier though).

- Woodson = Slider
Andre' Woodson, once considered a 1st round pick, has finally been taken late in the sixth, by the Giants. He will have a chance to win the 3rd QB job.

- Matt Flynn to Packers...
Another QB to the Pack? Can they really have 3 guys who have never started a game on their roster? Flynn would have made sense on his own in the 7th for depth behind Rodgers and a veteran, but Flynn probably wishes he was elsewhere with at least a chance to compete for the 3rd QB job.

Saturday, April 26, 2008

Second Round Utterings - The Final Stages

- Didn't see that coming
The Redskins attacked need head on by going for Malcolm Kelly, the WR of Oklahoma. Before his Pro Day, quite a few had him as the top WR, now the Redskins get him and Devin Thomas in the second to complement Santana Moss. This makes for a highly competitive training camp.

- The Bucs are on the clock
I wouldn't be shocked to see a QB taken, but I expect Manningham or Sweed to come off the board right here.

- Another trade by the Jags
Clearly keen to address DE, the Jags have traded up to get pass rushing specialist Quentin Groves of Auburn. Apparently the Jags gave up a fifth and next year's 7th to swap second rounders. But a two DE first day is interesting, with only two 5ths tomorrow. I wonder what they could get for Matt Jones?

- Pittsburgh Steals Second
Limas Sweed in the middle of the second is massive for the Steelers, who amazingly, with a need at OL, end up with arguably the best RB in the first (Mendenhall) and aruguably one of the top 3 WR (Sweed) in the second. No excuses now for the Steelers.

- Who is Jason Jones?
The Titans drafted Jason Jones. Is he the DE from Eastern Michigan or the WR from Arkansas-Pine Bluff? I hope its the DE. Manningham is still on the board folks.

- Ok, confirmation is here
Jason Jones the DE it is. I didn't have him until the 4th. Oh well, different strokes for different folks. Call me a Michigan homer, but Manningham and Henne are still on the board.

- Someone has to move up...
With two of the best two QB's on the board still, including the one I think will be the best pro (Henne) a team will surely take a move up. Green Bay will be very tempted to move to early 3rd if they both survive the day.

- Rutgers Rice to Ravens
Baltimore looked for some support for Willis McGahee, drafting Ray Rice, a solid second round pick for the Ravens. They must have been tempted to go WR here. In hindsight also, you can think they could have waited till now to draft Flacco or one of the other QBs.

- Well, I thought so
The Packers couldn't resist a QB and now there is a genuine QB Controversy in the works in Green Bay with Brian Brohm going to the Pack. Rodgers has the inside running, but now the Packers will also get a chance for a situation like San Diego had with Rivers and Brees and the Browns with Anderson and Quinn. Interesting.

- Henne Options
With Chad Henne still on the board, but Brohm gone, teams who want him, will have to go get him. How committed to Beck are Miami? Do Carolina want to come up and grab him? What about the Jets?

- Henne reunited
Chad Henne will be a Dolphin, joining teammate Jake Long in Miami. John Beck should feel very nervous about his spot. I predict that Henne starts by mid-season. Now if only the Fins can get back up to take Manningham, add Mike Hart in the 3rd/4th and they will be Michigan South (insert tongue in cheek here).

- Appalachian State beats Michigan again!
This time it is WR Dexter Jackson outdrafting Mario Manningham. The Bucs grabbed the speedy Jackson who is a poor man's Steve Smith. Jackson should boost the return game straight away.

- Two Biggest Slides =
Manningham and Dan Connor represent real surprises as undrafted players. Both were sprouted as 1st rounders, but no such luck even in the second so far!

- Colts Finally Amongst it
After one of the longest draft waits (Cleveland is already snoozing until the 4th), the Colts have chalked up Centre Mike Pollack of ASU who should become Jeff Saturday's successor in time. I really like this fit and Pollack has the skill set and smarts for the Colts.

- Packers get good CB depth
Pat Lee of Auburn will be the #3 CB in Green Bay behind Charles Woodson and Al Harris and could grow into a starter. A nice pick here.

- Dallas replaces Fasano
In a strange move, the Cowboys used a 2nd round pick to replace a player they traded with another for a 4th round pick. The Cowboys tabbed Martellus Bennett from Texas A & M to backup Jason Witten. With some strong WR still on the board, it was interesting to see them steer clear. Manningham's marijuana issue must really have scared teams.

- CB Help Arrived for the Patriots
They need to replace Asante Samuel, so can Terrence Wheatly, the PAtriots second round pick do that? Probably not, but he will given the chance to earn some time.

- Giants sure to end the day with Connor
New York considered him at the end of the first, and now they can get him with the final Day 1 pick.

- Ok, wrong again.
Connor slides out of the first day as the G-men go back to the secondary to get Terrell Thomas of USC. Their 7th of the first day.

More Second Round Utterings

- Vikings get rising Safety
Many viewed Tyrell Johnson as physically the top safety, and the Vikings continue to make headway with his selection to work with Darren Sharper.

- WR Absence still mystifying
With playmakers coveted, the fact that DeSean Jackson, Mario Manningham and Limas Sweed are on the board is amazing. Look for some movement to fill needs with the Eagles and Titans sure to pounce on these guys who many thought would draft them in the first.

- So much for the value board of gurus
Now the Lions have shocked by getting LB Jordan Dizon of Colorado. Most gave a 3/4th round grade. The Lions have him valued over Dan Connor, Erin Henderson and some other standout guys. I would have thought Connor was a really safe pick. Some team will get a steal. I wouldn't be surprised to see Giants, Washington or Philadelphia attack them.

- More WR Shocks.
Jerome Simpson of small Coastal Carolina is a nice player, but to overlook Manningham, Sweed, Jackson and Doucet in his favour is amazing. The Bengals needed WR help and I guess they went for a reliable pick. I would think that character was big in this one. Eagles are on the clock. WR MUST be the pick. Sweed, Jackson or Manningham would be a steal here.

- Ok I was wrong...
The Eagles go for DT TRevor Laws of Notre Dame. A fine player, but surely WR is more of a need. Amazing.

- Make it 6 for USC
TE Fred Davis goes to Washington. I am amazed by this pick as well. No doubt Davis is a worthy player, but the Skins already have Pro Bowler Chris Cooley and have needs at LB and certainly Calais Campbell would have been of merit here as well. Davis could allow new coach Jim Zorn some versatility.

- Ooh, Eagles again on the clock...WR right????

- Henne and Brohm still there
No teams who have needs are left in the second right? MAybe Miami still has a look, but I think St Louis, Carolina or the Jets will seriously entertain the thought of trading up to get one of them. It would be interesting to see what the Packers do if they had a chance.

- Woohoo, a WR for the Eagles!
DeSean Jackson, who many had going in the first round to the Eagles will join McNabb and co in Philly after all. This is either clever or lucky for the Eagles who now don't have to may 1st round money.

- Campbell Heads to the Desert
Many had him in the first round, bu Calais Campbell is going to Arizona in the second and I have to believe that Washington would have taken him with the next pick. Arizona can use Campbell as an end in either 4-3 or 3-4 scheme. Look for the Skins to draft Quentin Groves instead.

Second Round Utterings

- Merling to the Dolphins at the top of the second.
Not sure if he is a fit in their 3-4, but the best player on the board still

- Donnie Avery is the top WR??.
With all the other players on the board, the Rams went for Donnie Avery in the second. Over Devin Thomas? Over Limas Sweed? Over Mario Manningham? Over James Hardy? Insane.

- Redskins sharp.
They traded out and still get the WR that many thought they would choose at 21. Shrewd work that amazingly paid off for the Skins. Devin Thomas gives Jason Campbell a nice big target. Who needs Chad Johnson, Anquan Boldin or Roy Williams!

- Chiefs Further Bolster Defense
Brandon Flowers comes in to boost the Chiefs secondary which was certainly a need. Brodie Croyle takes another deep breath as the Chiefs pass up Brohm and Henne.

- WR Boost for the Packers
The Packers added the big threat Jordy Nelson from Kansas State as the run on WR continues. Look for more to come off the board. Some team is going to get a steal with Limas Sweed or Mario Manningham here. Expect Dallas, Houston, Chicago, Philadephia and others to get in this race.

- Lofton is a need and value pick
Curtis Lofton heads to ATL to boost the birds defense. After addressing QB in the first, it was time to take defense and one of the best linebackers gets the call. It could have been Dan Connor who is slipping, but instead it is the Oklahoma guy. I wouldn't have been shocked to see Calais Campbell here.

- The Seahawks have their TE
They were desperately needing one, but instead of USC's Fred Davis, it is Notre Dame's John Carlson, something of a surprise.

- USC gets #5
San Francisco gets the OL help it needed with Chilo Rachal being the next USC player off the board. A good value and need combo.

- CB Pickup for Saints
Most pundits had the Saints getting a first round CB, but after going DT, the Saints grab the next best CB with Tracey Porter who should compete as #3 CB immediately

- Back to back Indiana
Just after they saw CB Porter drafted, the Bills made James Hardy, also of Indiana, their 2nd round pick in a fantastic pickup for the Bills who most thought would go WR in the first. Hardy should start immediately opposite Lee Evans and is my favourite second round pick so far

- More Speed to Burn
Denver addressed their glaring WR need with the explosive Eddie Royal of Va tech. Injuries and trades have made the position a need and Royal could compete for a start immediately.

- Sweed and Manningham still on the board is a big surprise

- Bears off and running
The Bears took care of their RB need opting for Matt Forte of Tulane. Forte's Senior Bowl probably got him into the second ahead of the likes of Kevin Smith, Ray Rice and co. With WR's still on the board, this was an interesting statement.

First Round in Review

Here are some thoughts so far.

1) No WR taken. I had 4 going in the first, but now none got taken. We knew it wasn’t an outstanding class at the top, but there was some depth, so perhaps that is what teams were thinking, they could get plenty of value in the second.

2) RB Mayhem. We certainly didn’t think we’d see that many go in the first, but once the run started, look out.

3) Need before value. It seems that this is still the drafting strategy of many teams.

4) Who goes for a QB? Henne and Brohm are on the board, who wants them?

5) Where is Merling? He was touted as a first rounder, but slipped out. It won’t be long though I am sure.

Draft Analysis - Picks 26-31

Trades aplenty so far. An indicator of the differing views. For the second straight year, the Eagles have traded out of the first round, although they collected a first for 2009. With 10 trades already, the mock drafts fall apart. I have been comfy with some predictions as we go, but like most, have battled with all the movement.

26) Houston selects Duane Brown
Well here is a pick from left field. Brown was a late second round prospect who benefited from the run on OL players. The Texans needed help, but with ALL WR still on the board, surely a wideout would have been better value.

27) San Diego takes Antoine Cason
Antoine Cason fills the 3rd CB role left by Drayton Florence and is a solid pick for a team in good shape. I would have thought that an OL would have been their first priority, but with no value, they play safe. Still, I thought Kenny Phillips would have been better value.

28) Seattle selects Lawrence Jackson
USC get 4 first round selections with the DE making a climb into the first round. The Seahawks needed DL help, and get some DE youth in an every downs form with Jackson. The Seahawks had 3 solid players to choose from on DL with Kentwan Balmer and Phillip Merling, who has dropped more than was predicted, so perhaps his workout wasn't tops.

29) San Francisco selects Kentwan Balmer
The Niners play the 3-4, so do they believe Balmer can be a 3-4 end? He probably isn;t a nose tackle. With any of the WR still on the board, it is surprising they didn't pull the trigger. Balmer represents very good value at this pick.

* I wouldn't be surprised to see a team move up to take a QB here.

30) New York Jets select Dustin Keller
They moved up to get their guy and it is an interesting move for the Jets. I was sure they were moving up to get a QB or at worst the top WR. Well, Keller is an athlete and a productive guy, but I have to think he would have been there at their second round spot. New York Giants will surely be receiving some calls now for the next best QB.

31) New York Giants take Kenny Phillips
He is the top safety and the Giants have a need, so make the pick quite easily. The final pick in the first round should start early to take over for Gibril Wilson. Phillips offers some range and athleticism, although there is some concern over his senior season.

Draft Analysis - Picks 21-25

21) Atlanta Trades up to get Sam Baker
A big run on OL sees the Falcons jump back into the first to get the next best Tackle. That is also 3 USC guys in the first round. Here it is a bit of a reach, but here the need to get a player overwhelms the value.

22) Dallas chooses Felix Jones
Nobody thought Dallas could have its pick of RB and WR at 21 and here they get one of the most explosive RB's. He is a perfect complement to Marion Barber. Mendenhall is probably the better RB, but not as a complement to Barber. Dallas was able to sit and get a top player. Look for a WR or CB at their next pick.

23) Pittsburgh selects Rashard Mendenhall
They wanted OL, but couldn't get one dropping to them. The Steelers went into the draft wanting a RB, but maybe were thinking second round. Instead, they get the player I think is the best RB in the draft to complement Willie Parker. With Parker injured for the playoffs, the Steelers lacked punch, now they have a fine tandem. They must have considered WR also.

24) Tennessee takes Chris Johnson
Look at the run on RB here. The Titans overlooked a clear need at WR to go for a speedy RB. Johnson has 4.24 speed and will be the speed complement to Lendale White. I still think with no WR taken that the Titans could have had their pick of them. You can't, however, deny Johnson's skills and as a speed option, there is no quicker.

25) Dallas trades up to select Mike Jenkins
Dallas wanted another CB and they move up to secure the guy they wanted. Jenkins is a top talent and should be a strong player. The Cowboys will have a stocked secondary now and should be even more competitive. The Seahawks traded out, possibly to get a TE later.

Draft Analysis - Picks 16-20

Ok, so 5 picks right so far...

16) Arizona Cardinals take Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie
The Cardinals needed a CB and they get one, although they must've been tempted with Mendenhall on the board. Antrel Rolle moves to Safety, so Rodgers-Cromartie will have to start immediately as a corner.

17) Gosder Cherilus to Detroit
Well, they did it. They overlooked Mendenhall, I can't believe it. Cherilus is a fine player, but hey, who is carrying the ball in Detroit now???? You gotta think they will try to get a back in the next round.

18) Ravens Trade Up to get Joe Flacco
The Ravens are bold in their bid to get the QB they wanted. Not sure Flacco is the second best QB in the draft, but you have to admire the Ravens working the boards. I still can't believe they got Flacco into the first, although with a better supporting cast, perhaps he has Roethlisberger style chance. But you know that the Ravens needed somebody. Well done to the Texans for moving out with some extra picks.

19) Carolina trades up to take Jeff Otah
The Panthers got the RB and wanted to add a power blocker to help drive the run game. No word on the compensation, but the Panthers knew what they wanted. The Eagles get another pick and can take any of the WR later. Look for them to trade back into the first round.

20) Tampa chooses Aqib Talib
The Bucs wanted a CB. We thought they might go after Lito Sheppherd in a trade from Philly. Not sure if Talib is a Cover 2 fit, but the Bucs like him and he is an athletic and talented player who will take some refinement.

Draft Analysis - Picks 11-15

Ok so it seems my early mock drafts were closer than my more recent. Seems like most pundits, I got caught up in the trends.

11) Leodis McKelvin to Buffalo
A lot of talk about the Bills needing a CB, but many mocks (mine included) had them reaching for WR. A smart pick with McKelvin because not only do they get a CB, but also a return guy who should contribute immediately.

12) Ryan Clady to the Broncos
A zone blocking fit for the Broncos who needed a tackle desperately. They were fortunate to get the second best guy with this pick and should have an early contributor, even if it is at Right tackle.

13) Jonathon Stewart to the Panthers
The first surprise for me. The Panthers needed RB, but I didn't believe they would use a first rounder, especially with Brandon Albert on the board to fill value and need. Stewart should be a very good back and coming off his surgery may take a little time, but he should complement D'Angelo Williams well.

14) Chris Williams to the Bears
OLine need trumps for the Bears who have plenty of needs. The Bears are old at Tackle and the Vanderbilt OL will be a good value and need pick. With Rashard Mendenhall on the board still, it would have been very tempting, but Williams can start now.

15) Chiefs trade up to get Brandon Albert
Wow, I can't believe Detroit traded down with Mendenhall on the board. The Chiefs use their plethora of picks to move up to get the top guard and a very successful first round so far. They had an urgent OL need and get one of the top players on the board. Detroit were obviously looking for more picks, but with an urgent need at RB, you gotta take Mendenhall.

Draft Analysis Picks 1-10

1) Jake Long to the Dolphins
It happened before the draft and is a smart and safe choice. I didn't predict it, but I can definitely see why. The Dolphins get a high character guy and an instant starter. Pencil him in and leave him for years.

2) Chris Long to the Rams
With Jake Long gone it was left to a choice between Chris Long and Dorsey. The DE need is strong and now the Rams have it filled with the standout. Long doesn't have to convert to LB and can be a pure Defensive End. Two white DL for the Rams in consecutive years, interesting.

3) Matt Ryan to the Falcons
Well, they did it. I am pleased they did. He was needed as a face and QB for the rebuilding Falcons and despite Dorsey and the talk he was the guy, I have to believe Ryan maybe was the guy all along. A sound pick and it will be interested to see whether he is thrown into the fire immediately.

4) Darren McFadden to the Raiders
Al Davis's love of speed players led to this pick. Not a need at all for the Raiders, but look for them to deal one of their backs today. With Dorsey also on the board here this would have been a real tough decision for the Raiders, but it will be interesting in Oakland.

5) Glen Dorsey to the Chiefs
Great pick by the Chiefs. DL was a need and they were fortunate to have Dorsey fall to them. They may have considered Gholston here, but Dorsey is an instant every down contributor. Look for the Chiefs to go OL with their next first rounder.

6) Vernon Gholston to the Jets.
All of their other targets are gone and Gholston fits need and value here. The Jets get an explosive pass rusher off the edge to play opposite Calvin Pace. With McFadden and Ryan off the boardl, this was the clear pick, although Ellis could have been possible.

7) Saints trade up to get Sedrick Ellis
They wanted a DT. They traded up 3 picks to get him. The Saints dealt their 10th overall pick and a 3rd rounder to get the Patriots selection using it on the DT from USC. Another instant contributor and a player the Saints need to get to where they need to be.

8) Jaguars trade up for Derek Harvey
Wow! What a huge move. To go up 18 places took 3 other picks to get them there, but the Jags need at DE was enormous and the value with Harvey is there, an every down DE. They may have sacrificed some depth, with the loss of picks, but you can't fault the Jags motives. Baltimore moves out because they couldn't get Ryan, and I see them using the Jags pick on the next QB off the board, Brohm or Henne.

9) Keith Rivers to the Bengals
The defense needed work and it was going to be a USC guy. With Ellis off the board, it was LB Keith RIvers who will be a good fit and high character player for Marvin Lewis.

10) Jerod Mayo to the Patriots
No denying the Patriots LB need, but Mayo was a late climber and perhaps a reach at 10, however the Patriots do this drafting thing well. Mayo will fit perfectly inside for the Pats and make them younger and faster on D.

25 APR - 2008

1) Parcells Impressive

I have to say that i have been very impressed with Bill Parcells work in reshaping the Miami roster. He has brought in some familiar faces from Dallas, has a franchise Left Tackle with the first overall pick and continues to wheel and deal for the team's advantage. The latest move I am impressed with is the trade of a 4th round pick for 2 players from Dallas - LB Akin Ayodele and TE Anthony Fasano. Ayodele has been a starter in the 3-4 being used in Miami and should fill the same role alongside Channing Crowder with the Dolphins. Fasano was a 2nd round pick and Jason Witten's backup in Dallas, so should compete as a starter straight away. Either way, the Tuna is the toast of Miami.

2) Receivers Demand Trade, But not likely moving

Chad Johnson, Anquan Boldin and Roy Williams are all big name wideouts who have been seeking trades from their current teams. None appear likely to be changing teams anytime soon, although the Redskins have chased all of them, offering their 21st overall pick. We will see if the draft weekend brings any surprises in this regard.

3) Shockey Shifting to Seattle or Saints

It seems Jeremy Shockey will bring his game and mouth to one of these two places soon. Perhaps a 3rd round pick could be enough of an enticement to move Shockey who didn't even play in the Giants playoff and Superbowl run. Both Saints and Seahawks have been in need of a receiving threat at TE and Shockey is keen to contribute anywhere else but NYC.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Final Mock Draft

After taking into account the Jared Allen Trade and the signing of Jake Long, here is the final mock.

1. Miami Dolphins – Jake Long, OT, Michigan

They just went and picked him, easy as that. It is in the books.

2. St. Louis Rams –Chris Long, DE, Virginia

The Rams have had to change tack and look to the D Line.

3. Atlanta Falcons – Glen Dorsey, DT, LSU

The Falcons would have looked to trade down if Dorsey wasn't here, but instead take the DT.

4. Oakland Raiders – Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas

With his speed and production, Al Davis can't resist.

5. Kansas City Chiefs – Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio State

With the Jake Long pick and trade of Jared Allen, this becomes a very safe pick and they don’t have to reach for OL help.

6. New York Jets – Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC

They would have loved to take Gholston, but things have changed, although Defense remains the priority.

7. New England Patriots – Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy

Two CB starters are gone and the process of replacing them starts here.

8. Baltimore Ravens – Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College

Defensive help could be used, but the QB issue is urgent for the Ravens, for whom Troy Smith isn't the answer. Ravens are even more determined to use this pick on a QB with Ryan there for the taking.

9. Cincinnati Bengals – Keith Rivers, LB, USC

Thought they would have a chance at Sedrick Ellis, but instead it is his LB teammate.

10. New Orleans Saints – Dominique Rodgers Cromartie, CB, Tennessee State

Defense is where the holes are for the Saints. Cornerback is a primary need and the Saints can get a top CB, although many have a LB going here.

11. Buffalo Bills – Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan State

Plenty of areas of need for the Bills. More OL help, CB, WR are all priority spots, but look for a WR here now that Rivers is off the board.

12. Denver Broncos – Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State

Hard to see the Broncos passing on a perfect fit on OL.

13. Carolina Panthers – Brandon Albert, OL, Virginia

If Rivers was still there, I could see them going for him, but now things change. RB is a need, along with LB and OL. I see Brandon Albert the Guard from Virginia heading up to this spot.

14. Chicago Bears - Jeff Otah, OL, Pittsburgh

Endless possibilities for the Bears who need WR, RB, OL, QB help. OL is possibly the safest and the big guy from Pittsburgh gets the call.

15. Detroit Lions – Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois

A few need areas, but RB is an immediate need for the Lions.

16. Arizona Cardinals – Mike Jenkins, CB, USF

The Cards are moving Antrel Rolle to Safety and need a CB. They also need a RB, so don’t be surprised to see Felix Jones name called.

17. Kansas City Chiefs – Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt

The Chiefs picked up this pick in the Jared Allen trade and now long to address need and value with the OL pick.

18. Houston Texans – Limas Sweed, WR, Texas

The signing of Chris Brown took the RB need back a round, so a target opposite Andre Johnson becomes vital and Sweed stays in state. Some consider OL a need area.

19. Philadelphia Eagles – DeSean Jackson, WR, Cal

An explosive playmaker is what the Eagles needed, and they get one.

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Derek Harvey, DE, Florida

Hard for the Buccs to resist Harvey after he amazingly gets this far. Don’t be surprised to see Jacksonville make a run at a trade up for Harvey.

21. Washington Redskins – Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson

A pass rusher is the likely option, but the Redskins need to replace the departed Sean Taylor, and Kenny Phillips could be a candidate there, but the speedy pass rusher gets the nod after an outsanding combine workout. Some concern about sports hernia, but all should check out.

22. Dallas Cowboys – Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas

The RB they desire fell into their lap, so the Cowboys add the speed with Marion Barber’s inside running.

23. Pittsburgh Steelers – Godser Cherilus, OL, Boston College

The aging Steelers OLine struggled this past season as evidenced by the Jags domination. Time to bring in some youth.

24. Tennessee Titans – James Hardy, WR, Indiana

WR is the option here, but a first round pass rusher could add plenty to the Titans who are likely to have high turnover at the position.

25. Seattle Seahawks – Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina

RB is no longer a need for Seattle after their FA work, so Hasselbeck could use a reliable TE, but the interior DL of the Seahawks needs help and Balmer arrives.

28. Jacksonville Jaguars – Calais Campbell, DE, Miami

D Line depth was a problem last year and need meets value with Calais Campbell.

27. San Diego Chargers – Kenny Phillips, S, Miami

Not too many huge needs for the Chargers. More speed and athleticism would help greatly and Phillips will be an eventual upgrade to the secondary.

28. Dallas Cowboys – Mario Manningham, WR, Michigan

Plenty of options for the Cowboys. Picking up Pacman should mean WR is the priority and the Cowboys have two solid players to choose from, in the end they go for the size and playmaking of Manningham.

29. San Francisco 49'ers– Dan Connor, LB, Penn State

With Manningham on the board, he will be hard to resist, but instead the Niners look to plug in Connor next to Patrick Willis.

30. Green Bay Packers – Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas

TE could be a chance, but the next best CB and return man is the pick.

*31 New England Patriots – Pick forfeited due to Spygate

32. New York Giants – Jerod Mayo, LB, Tennessee

There is no bigger need for the Giants than LB.

Second Round Mock

32. Miami Dolphins – Trevor Laws, DL, Notre Dame

33. Atlanta – Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville

34. Kansas City Chiefs – Justin King, CB, Penn State

35. New York Jets – Quentin Groves, OLB, Auburn

36. Atlanta Falcons – Wesley Woodyard, LB, Kentucky

37. Baltimore Ravens – Tracey Porter, CB, Indiana

38. San Francisco 49ers - Early Doucet, WR, LSU

39. New Orleans Saints – Curtis Lofton, LB, Oklahoma

40. Buffalo Bills – Brandon Flowers, CB, Virginia Tech

41. Denver Broncos – Andre Caldwell, WR, Florida

42. Carolina Panthers – Jonathon Stewart, RB, Oregon

43. Chicago Bears – Jamaal Charles, RB, Texas

44. Detroit Lions – Chilo Rachal, OL, USC

45. Cincinnati Bengals – Fred Davis, TE, USC

46. Minnesota Vikings – John Carlson, TE, Notre Dame

47. Atlanta Falcons – Oniel Cousins, OL, UTEP

48. Philadelphia Eagles – Tyrell Johnson, S, Arkansas St

49. Arizona Cardinals – Ray Rice, RB, Rutgers

50. Washington Redskins – Reggie Smith, S, Oklahoma

51. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Malcolm Kelly, WR, Oklahoma

52. Pittsburgh Steelers – DaJuan Morgan, S, NC State

53. Tennessee Titans – Erin Henderson, LB, Maryland

54. Seattle Seahawks – Chad Henne, QB, Michigan

55. Green Bay – Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona

56. Miami Dolphins – Lavelle Hawkins, WR, Cal

57. Jacksonville Jaguars – Pat Sims, DT, Auburn

58. Indianapolis Colts – Lawrence Jackson, DE, USC

59. Green Bay Packers – Sam Baker, OL, USC

60. Dallas Cowboys – Red Bryant, DT, Texas A & M

61. New York Giants – Mike Pollack, OL, Arizona State

62. New England Patriots – Duane Brown, OL, Texas A & M

Third Round Mock

65. Miami- Frank Okam, NT, Texas

66. St. Louis- Eric Young, OL, Tennessee

67T. New England (OAK)- Shawn Crable, LB, Michigan

68T. Atlanta- Cliff Avril, OLB/DE, Purdue

69T. Kansas City- Dustin Keller, TE, Purdue

70. Carolina- Joe Flacco, QB, Delaware

71. Chicago- Ahtya Rubin, DT, Iowa St

72. Buffalo (BAL)- Mike McGlynn, OL, Pittsburgh

73. Cincinnati- Phillip Wheeler, LB, Georgia Tech

74. New York Jets- Dexter Jackson, WR, Appalachian State

75T. Jacksonville- Roy Scheuning, OL, Oregon St

76T. Kansas City – Geoff Schwartz, OL, Oregon

77. Carolina- Marcus Harrison, DT, Arkansas

78T. Detroit- Chris Ellis, DE, Virginia Tech

79T. San Francisco – Carl Nicks, OL, Nebraska

80. Arizona- Tarvares Gooden, LB, Miami

81. Kansas City- Jamar Adams, S, Michigan

82. Houston- Kevin Smith, RB, UCF

83. Philadelphia- Eddie Royal, WR, Virginia Tech

84. Tampa Bay- Chris Johnson, RB, East Carolina

85P. Washington- Donnie Avery, WR, Houston

86. Detroit- Anthony Collins, OL, Kansas

87P. Seattle- John Greco, OL, Toledo

88P. Pittsburgh- Drew Radovich, OL, USC

89P. Tennessee- Thomas Williams, CB, USC

90P. New York Giants- Trae Williams, CB, South Florida

91P. Chicago – Jordy Nelson, WR, Kansas State

92P. Jacksonville- Josh Barrett, S, Arizona State

93P. Green Bay- Pat Lee, CB, Auburn

94P. Indianapolis- Steve Justice, OL, Wake Forest

95P. Dallas- Andre' Woodson, QB, Kentucky

96P. New England- Peyton Hillis, RB/FB, Arkansas

23 APR - 2008

1) Long Goes #1...Just not the one I thought!

So there was no smokescreen as Jake Long was the Dolphins favourite, the team agreeing to terms with the Michigan OT. Effectively now this makes St Louis on the clock. How will this affect the draft? In a decent way I think. Stay tuned for my final mock draft tomorrow!

2) Allen a Viking

Speculation has come to fruition as Jared Allen was traded to the Vikings for 3 picks, in a great move for the Chiefs. The Chiefs, although losing a star player (who they were probably going to lose next year anyway), get the chance to pick 3 new players in the first and two in the 3rd.

3) More Movement

Pacman to Dallas is now a formality, for suprisingly only a 4th rounder. The delays in reinstatement talks probably brought value down. Seattle has released Shaun Alexander. Not overly suprising and discussed in this blog a few times after the acquisition of Duckett and Julius Jones. Look for Alexander to appear in Tampa Bay (my hot tip).

Monday, April 21, 2008

Latest Mock Draft

1. Miami Dolphins – Chris Long, DE, Virginia

Dolphins would consider trading down if they had the right offer, but Long is the perfect pick in Sparano’s 34 defense if they remain, despite the Jake Long talk.

2. St. Louis Rams – Jake Long, OL, Michigan

Time to find a replacement for Orlando Pace. Meet Jake Long.

3. Atlanta Falcons – Glen Dorsey, DL, LSU

The Falcons need QB help but perhaps aren't sure they want to make that commitment to Matt Ryan. I would not be surprised if Ryan was the pick, but a healthy Dorsey now and a QB in the second is possible.

4. Oakland Raiders – Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas

With his speed and production, Al Davis can't resist.

5. Kansas City Chiefs – Ryan Clady, OL, Boise

Needs all over the place for the Chiefs. Offensive line is definitely very high on the list and they were hoping Jake Long would get to them. A trade down would be a possibility to get one of the next tier O Linemen, but instead they stay and take the next best player.

6. New York Jets – Vernon Gholston, DE/OLB, Ohio State

The pass rusher is too explosive to pass up for the Jets. If Matt Ryan is on the board it will be very interesting to see what they do.

7. New England Patriots – Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy

Two CB starters are gone and the process of replacing them starts here.

8. Baltimore Ravens – Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College

Defensive help could be used, but the QB issue is urgent for the Ravens, for whom Troy Smith isn't the answer. Ravens are even more determined to use this pick on a QB with Ryan there for the taking.

9. Cincinnati Bengals – Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC

Free agency saw some big improvements on defense and Ellis becomes the latest.

10. New Orleans Saints – Dominique Rodgers Cromartie, CB, Tennessee State

Defense is where the holes are for the Saints. Cornerback is a primary need and the Saints can get a top CB, although many have a LB going here.

11. Buffalo Bills – Keith Rivers, LB, USC

Plenty of areas of need for the Bills. More OL help, CB, WR are all priority spots, but look for a LB here.

12. Denver Broncos – Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt

Hard to see the Broncos passing on a perfect fit on OL.

13. Carolina Panthers – Brandon Albert, OL, Virginia

If Rivers was still there, I could see them going for him, but now things change. RB is a need, along with LB and OL. I see Brandon Albert the Guard from Virginia heading up to this spot.

14. Chicago Bears - Jeff Otah, OL, Pittsburgh

Endless possibilities for the Bears who need WR, RB, OL, QB help. OL is possibly the safest and the big guy from Pittsburgh gets the call.

15. Detroit Lions – Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois

A few need areas, but RB is an immediate need for the Lions.

16. Arizona Cardinals – Mike Jenkins, CB, USF

The Cards are moving Antrel Rolle to Safety and need a CB. They also need a RB, so don’t be surprised to see Felix Jones name called.

17. Minnesota Vikings – Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida

Defensive End is a need spot for the Vikings, along with LB. Look for the Vikes to address Defensive End early and they are rapt to have Harvey still there.

18. Houston Texans – Limas Sweed, WR, Texas

The signing of Chris Brown took the RB need back a round, so a target opposite Andre Johnson becomes vital and Sweed stays in state. Some consider OL a need area.

19. Philadelphia Eagles – DeSean Jackson, WR, Cal

Not too many huge needs for the Chargers. More speed and athleticism would help greatly and Phillips will be an eventual upgrade to the secondary.

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan State

Playmakers on offense is what the Bucs are saying, so look for Thomas. LB or RB could also be a chance.