If you were expecting anything earth-shattering from USC's Pro Day today, you didn't get it. But what transpired at Cromwell Field should bode well for the Trojans expecting to hear their name called next month at the NFL Draft.
Safety Taylor Mays didn't help his stock tremendously, but he didn't hurt it, either. He arrived for the workouts looking a little slimmer than he has been, but he looked just as athletic on the field. Mays looked good in coverage drills and displayed good hands.
He chose not to run the 40-yard dash, letting his NFL Combine time stand. When asked why he didn't run today, he said: "Didn't need to." Easy enough. Mays also said he wasn't quite sure where he's going to be on draft day, adding that he hadn't ruled out the possibility of being in New York.
Another possible first round pick, DE Everson Griffen, turned in a solid Pro Day as well. He ran a 4.59 40-yard dash, showcasing the speed that makes him a viable threat as an edge rusher in the NFL. Griffen also looked good in the other agility drills. He showed great bursts of speed and strength off the blocks. He should hear his name called on Thursday night.
The offense:
- WR Damian Williams looked good as well. He runs solid routes and has sound hands, making him an ideal second-round pick.
- RB Stafon Johnson continues to impress, running a 4.62 40 time. Not exactly blazing speed, but considering where he's coming from, it's pretty good. Johnson also displayed some good hands catching passes.
- Fellow RB Joe McKnight did not have a great day. He stumbled a bit in the agility drills, but it was unclear how much of that had to do with the cleats he was wearing and the synthetic surface at Cromwell Field. Either way, he was not sharp.
- It was a mixed day for the offensive line. OT Charles Brown pulled up on his second 40, grabbing at his left hamstring. He sat out the rest of the day. Jeff Byers looked good, turning in a 5.09 40 time and solid runs in the agility drills.
The defense:
- CB Kevin Thomas had a phenomenal day. He ran a 4.43 40 time and looked smooth in coverage drills, displaying good hands as well. Thomas should be a fourth- or fifth-round pick.
- S Will Harris ran a 4.59 40 and certainly helped his stock, given that he wasn't invited to the NFL Combine.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
MOCK DRAFT V 1.0
1. ST. LOUIS RAMS: Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska
I may be the only one still sold on Suh as a can't-miss, sure-fire number one overall pick. The Rams need a defensive stopper in the middle of the front seven, and Suh is that guy. He's an all-world talent with tremendous athleticism. Think about teams that have had great defenses. The Ravens had Tony Siragusa and now Haloti Ngata; the Titans struggled after losing Albert Haynwsworth; the Bucs of the past had Warren Sapp clogging up the middle; the dominant Pats had Vince Wilfork. You get the idea. It makes no sense to me to draft either QB at number one overall. Sam Bradford's shoulder still concerns me, and Jimmy Clausen isn't the number one pick. Suh is going to be a stud at the next level.
2. DETROIT LIONS: Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma
I already made my case for drafting a start DT and putting him directly into your lineup. The Lions D would get an immediate boost from adding McCoy. How good is he? Some have him rated higher than Suh. Enough said.
3. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS: Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State
The Bucs are hoping either Suh or McCoy falls to them, but if not, Okung should be their guy. He has the skills to be a stud offensive tackle for years in the league, one who can help protect Josh Freeman.
4. WASHINGTON REDSKINS: Eric Berry, S, Tennessee
As much as the Bucs want a DT, the 'Skins want an OT. But if they can't grab Okung, why not Berry? He's the top safety in the draft with a phenomenal skill and the ability to start from day one. I don't see Washington taking a QB. I get the feeling head coach Mike Shanahan will give Jason Campbell one more try.
5. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS: Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers
KC needs help along the offensive line in a big way. Davis is a top-tier tackle with great size.
6. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS: Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame
I've said it before and I'll say it again: I think Clausen is going to make a better QB than Bradford. That being said, Pete Carroll and company need a QB of the future and Clausen is their man.
7. CLEVELAND BROWNS: Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida
The Browns' offensive fire sale continues, and if they dump Brady Quinn, who knows? It could be Bradford here. But Eric Mangini is a defensive coach, and PIerre-Paul is the top DE available.
8. OAKLAND RAIDERS Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa
The Raiders need an OT and might reach here, especially if Okung and Davis are gone. Bulaga is the next best tackle available. Oakland could draft Bradford here, but Al Davis seems to love JaMarcus Russell and they'll probably give him another shot.
9. BUFFALO BILLS: Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma
No Aaron Rodgers here. Bradford will go in the top 10, that is almost certain. Buffalo needs a QB with that position a big question: Is Trent Edwards healthy? Is Ryan Fitzpatrick good enough? Brian Brohm? No, Bradford.
10. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS: Earl Thomas, S, Texas
Thomas is primarily a safety but he's versatile - he can play CB too. Jacksonville needs a ton of help on defense, and the Jags will start here in the first round.
11. DENVER BRONCOS (from CHI): Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State
Even if Brandon Marshall stays, Denver still needs another receiver to play opposite him. Bryant is the top man in this class.
12. MIAMI DOLPHINS: Jared Odrick, DT, Penn State
The Dolphins need a DT after the Jason Ferguson news came down, and Odrick is a big player. He can play DT and DE, helping Miami in multiple situations.
13. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS: Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma
The 49ers have a number of positions of need, but tackle is at the top. Williams is a big player with great skills.
14. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (from DEN): Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech
This would be a dream scenario for the Seahawks: Grab a franchise QB with their first pick, then take a stud pass rusher with their second.
15. NEW YORK GIANTS: Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama
The Giants defense fell apart at times last year, and McClain could end up being the best defensive player in this draft outside of Suh and McCoy.
16. TENNESSEE TITANS: Joe Haden, CB, Florida
Haden's stock slipped a bit after the Combine, but he didn't get near the top of big boards by accident. He's a solid cover corner, and he would be a great addition to the Titans' defense.
17. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (from CAR): Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas
This would also be a dream scenario for the Niners: addressing two of their biggest needs in the first round. OT at 13, and now a big-time LB at 17.
18. PITTSBURGH STEELERS: Taylor Mays, S, USC
Mays is another guy whose stock has fallen tremendously, but he's a gifted athlete and an imposing figure. He could provide the Steelers with an imposing figure at a safety or, possibly, as a linebacker.
19. ATLANTA FALCONS: Everson Griffen, DE, USC
Griffen has the potential to be a consistent 10-sack player in the league for years. He's that good when he's on his game.
20. HOUSTON TEXANS: C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson
The Texans need a steady running back who can carry a big workload. Spiller can run, catch out of the backfield and do everything the Texans need him to. He's a very versatile back.
21. CINCINNATI BENGALS: Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois
If the Bengals don't add T.O., they'll add another downfield target in Benn. They also have a number of needs on defense, but for now, it's Benn.
22. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS: Brandon Graham, DE/OLB, Michigan
The Patriots are getting old on defense, and Graham is a hybrid player who can wreak havoc in the backfield.
23. GREEN BAY PACKERS: Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State
Wilson would be a steal at 22. He's an underrated corner with big-play potential.
24. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES: Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida
Dunlap is another guy who started high on draft boards and has since fallen. But he's a talented player with a solid skill set.
25. BALTIMORE RAVENS: Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame
Tate is very underrated as a playmaker. He can play receiver, running back, throw the ball and return punts and kicks. He would be a nice complement to Anquan Boldin.
26. ARIZONA CARDINALS: Demaryius Thomas, WR, Georgia Tech
The Cardinals need a replacement for Boldin, and Thomas is a big, physical receiver who has a knack for the big play. He would be a great addition to play with Larry Fitzgerald.
27. DALLAS COWBOYS: Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee
What a steal for Dallas. Williams is regarded as a top 15 pick on a lot of boards, and he's an excellent DT. He can make an immediate impact for the Cowboys defense.
28. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS: Jahvid Best, RB, Cal
With the departure of LT, the Chargers need another big-play back. Best is an explosive runner with breakaway speed and he can catch out of the backfield.
29. NEW YORK JETS: Mike Iupati, G, Idaho
If a stud pass rusher isn't available at 29, the Jets have the luxury of being able to add offensive line depth. Iupati is a big guard who could learn well under Alan Faneca.
30. MINNESOTA VIKINGS: Brian Price, DT, UCLA
Price is another underrated player. He's a talented DT and would fit right in to the Minnesota defense.
31. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS: Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland
The Colts need some help along the offensive line, and Campbell is a big tackle. He provides depth and could start as a rookie.
32. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS: Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers
New Orleans could use some depth in the secondary, and McCourty is the best cornerback available at this spot.
TOP PLAYERS AVAILABLE:
Ryan Matthews, RB, Fresno State
Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma
Maurkice Pouncey, C, Florida
Sean Weatherspoon, LB, Missouri
Jerry Hughes, LB, TCU
I may be the only one still sold on Suh as a can't-miss, sure-fire number one overall pick. The Rams need a defensive stopper in the middle of the front seven, and Suh is that guy. He's an all-world talent with tremendous athleticism. Think about teams that have had great defenses. The Ravens had Tony Siragusa and now Haloti Ngata; the Titans struggled after losing Albert Haynwsworth; the Bucs of the past had Warren Sapp clogging up the middle; the dominant Pats had Vince Wilfork. You get the idea. It makes no sense to me to draft either QB at number one overall. Sam Bradford's shoulder still concerns me, and Jimmy Clausen isn't the number one pick. Suh is going to be a stud at the next level.
2. DETROIT LIONS: Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma
I already made my case for drafting a start DT and putting him directly into your lineup. The Lions D would get an immediate boost from adding McCoy. How good is he? Some have him rated higher than Suh. Enough said.
3. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS: Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State
The Bucs are hoping either Suh or McCoy falls to them, but if not, Okung should be their guy. He has the skills to be a stud offensive tackle for years in the league, one who can help protect Josh Freeman.
4. WASHINGTON REDSKINS: Eric Berry, S, Tennessee
As much as the Bucs want a DT, the 'Skins want an OT. But if they can't grab Okung, why not Berry? He's the top safety in the draft with a phenomenal skill and the ability to start from day one. I don't see Washington taking a QB. I get the feeling head coach Mike Shanahan will give Jason Campbell one more try.
5. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS: Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers
KC needs help along the offensive line in a big way. Davis is a top-tier tackle with great size.
6. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS: Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame
I've said it before and I'll say it again: I think Clausen is going to make a better QB than Bradford. That being said, Pete Carroll and company need a QB of the future and Clausen is their man.
7. CLEVELAND BROWNS: Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida
The Browns' offensive fire sale continues, and if they dump Brady Quinn, who knows? It could be Bradford here. But Eric Mangini is a defensive coach, and PIerre-Paul is the top DE available.
8. OAKLAND RAIDERS Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa
The Raiders need an OT and might reach here, especially if Okung and Davis are gone. Bulaga is the next best tackle available. Oakland could draft Bradford here, but Al Davis seems to love JaMarcus Russell and they'll probably give him another shot.
9. BUFFALO BILLS: Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma
No Aaron Rodgers here. Bradford will go in the top 10, that is almost certain. Buffalo needs a QB with that position a big question: Is Trent Edwards healthy? Is Ryan Fitzpatrick good enough? Brian Brohm? No, Bradford.
10. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS: Earl Thomas, S, Texas
Thomas is primarily a safety but he's versatile - he can play CB too. Jacksonville needs a ton of help on defense, and the Jags will start here in the first round.
11. DENVER BRONCOS (from CHI): Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State
Even if Brandon Marshall stays, Denver still needs another receiver to play opposite him. Bryant is the top man in this class.
12. MIAMI DOLPHINS: Jared Odrick, DT, Penn State
The Dolphins need a DT after the Jason Ferguson news came down, and Odrick is a big player. He can play DT and DE, helping Miami in multiple situations.
13. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS: Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma
The 49ers have a number of positions of need, but tackle is at the top. Williams is a big player with great skills.
14. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (from DEN): Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech
This would be a dream scenario for the Seahawks: Grab a franchise QB with their first pick, then take a stud pass rusher with their second.
15. NEW YORK GIANTS: Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama
The Giants defense fell apart at times last year, and McClain could end up being the best defensive player in this draft outside of Suh and McCoy.
16. TENNESSEE TITANS: Joe Haden, CB, Florida
Haden's stock slipped a bit after the Combine, but he didn't get near the top of big boards by accident. He's a solid cover corner, and he would be a great addition to the Titans' defense.
17. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (from CAR): Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas
This would also be a dream scenario for the Niners: addressing two of their biggest needs in the first round. OT at 13, and now a big-time LB at 17.
18. PITTSBURGH STEELERS: Taylor Mays, S, USC
Mays is another guy whose stock has fallen tremendously, but he's a gifted athlete and an imposing figure. He could provide the Steelers with an imposing figure at a safety or, possibly, as a linebacker.
19. ATLANTA FALCONS: Everson Griffen, DE, USC
Griffen has the potential to be a consistent 10-sack player in the league for years. He's that good when he's on his game.
20. HOUSTON TEXANS: C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson
The Texans need a steady running back who can carry a big workload. Spiller can run, catch out of the backfield and do everything the Texans need him to. He's a very versatile back.
21. CINCINNATI BENGALS: Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois
If the Bengals don't add T.O., they'll add another downfield target in Benn. They also have a number of needs on defense, but for now, it's Benn.
22. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS: Brandon Graham, DE/OLB, Michigan
The Patriots are getting old on defense, and Graham is a hybrid player who can wreak havoc in the backfield.
23. GREEN BAY PACKERS: Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State
Wilson would be a steal at 22. He's an underrated corner with big-play potential.
24. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES: Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida
Dunlap is another guy who started high on draft boards and has since fallen. But he's a talented player with a solid skill set.
25. BALTIMORE RAVENS: Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame
Tate is very underrated as a playmaker. He can play receiver, running back, throw the ball and return punts and kicks. He would be a nice complement to Anquan Boldin.
26. ARIZONA CARDINALS: Demaryius Thomas, WR, Georgia Tech
The Cardinals need a replacement for Boldin, and Thomas is a big, physical receiver who has a knack for the big play. He would be a great addition to play with Larry Fitzgerald.
27. DALLAS COWBOYS: Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee
What a steal for Dallas. Williams is regarded as a top 15 pick on a lot of boards, and he's an excellent DT. He can make an immediate impact for the Cowboys defense.
28. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS: Jahvid Best, RB, Cal
With the departure of LT, the Chargers need another big-play back. Best is an explosive runner with breakaway speed and he can catch out of the backfield.
29. NEW YORK JETS: Mike Iupati, G, Idaho
If a stud pass rusher isn't available at 29, the Jets have the luxury of being able to add offensive line depth. Iupati is a big guard who could learn well under Alan Faneca.
30. MINNESOTA VIKINGS: Brian Price, DT, UCLA
Price is another underrated player. He's a talented DT and would fit right in to the Minnesota defense.
31. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS: Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland
The Colts need some help along the offensive line, and Campbell is a big tackle. He provides depth and could start as a rookie.
32. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS: Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers
New Orleans could use some depth in the secondary, and McCourty is the best cornerback available at this spot.
TOP PLAYERS AVAILABLE:
Ryan Matthews, RB, Fresno State
Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma
Maurkice Pouncey, C, Florida
Sean Weatherspoon, LB, Missouri
Jerry Hughes, LB, TCU
Saturday, March 6, 2010
The Blind Side
OK, sorry, I had to. Call it a cop out.
But when it comes to the NFL Draft, offensive tackles are on every team's radar. You can never have enough depth on the offensive line, especially at OT. Last year was an exceptionally strong class of tackles, with three going in the first eight picks and four in the first round. Each tackle had a case to be the first one off the board.
This year's class is on par with last year's in terms of depth. It's not as talented as last year's, at least in my opinion, but there are some excellent players available. First, the rankings. Then, the explanation.
1) Russell Okung, Oklahoma State
2) Anthony Davis, Rutgers
3a) Bryan Bulaga, Iowa
3b) Trent Williams, Oklahoma
There are two clear tiers in this year's class. Okung and Davis are the top tier tackles, both worthy of top 10 picks. Bulaga and Williams are the second tier tackles, and could go anywhere from 11-25. Some believe Bruce Campbell (Maryland) is worthy of joining that second tier, but on my board, he's just outside the top 25 and possibly outside the top 32.
Okung is the tallest and smallest of the group at 6-8, 299. He has tremendous overall athletic ability and is a well-rounded blocker. Davis is slightly behind on my board because of a couple of red flags. Make no mistake, he's a monster at 6-5, 323, and he can block. But he has dealt with some weight issues in the past. The Seattle Times' Danny O'Neil wrote about how Davis showed up to Rutgers weighing 360 pounds, but worked his way down to a manageable weight with hard work. Still, that is a slight concern. He's only a shade below Okung.
Bulaga and Williams are even on my board in the second tier. The former checks in at 6-6, 311, while the latter is 6-5, 306. The biggest question about Bulaga is his injury history. He missed a few games in 2009 with a thyroid condition, and suffered a shoulder injury a couple of years ago. They're both solid blockers, but a notch below Okung and Davis.
But when it comes to the NFL Draft, offensive tackles are on every team's radar. You can never have enough depth on the offensive line, especially at OT. Last year was an exceptionally strong class of tackles, with three going in the first eight picks and four in the first round. Each tackle had a case to be the first one off the board.
This year's class is on par with last year's in terms of depth. It's not as talented as last year's, at least in my opinion, but there are some excellent players available. First, the rankings. Then, the explanation.
1) Russell Okung, Oklahoma State
2) Anthony Davis, Rutgers
3a) Bryan Bulaga, Iowa
3b) Trent Williams, Oklahoma
There are two clear tiers in this year's class. Okung and Davis are the top tier tackles, both worthy of top 10 picks. Bulaga and Williams are the second tier tackles, and could go anywhere from 11-25. Some believe Bruce Campbell (Maryland) is worthy of joining that second tier, but on my board, he's just outside the top 25 and possibly outside the top 32.
Okung is the tallest and smallest of the group at 6-8, 299. He has tremendous overall athletic ability and is a well-rounded blocker. Davis is slightly behind on my board because of a couple of red flags. Make no mistake, he's a monster at 6-5, 323, and he can block. But he has dealt with some weight issues in the past. The Seattle Times' Danny O'Neil wrote about how Davis showed up to Rutgers weighing 360 pounds, but worked his way down to a manageable weight with hard work. Still, that is a slight concern. He's only a shade below Okung.
Bulaga and Williams are even on my board in the second tier. The former checks in at 6-6, 311, while the latter is 6-5, 306. The biggest question about Bulaga is his injury history. He missed a few games in 2009 with a thyroid condition, and suffered a shoulder injury a couple of years ago. They're both solid blockers, but a notch below Okung and Davis.
Draft Impact: Safeties on the Move
The New York Giants desperately needed help in their secondary. Enter safety Antrel Rolle. The Cardinals had a void. Hello, Kerry Rhodes. Now, both teams can focus on other key positions.
New York picks 15th in the first round - a prime position to make a pick on the defensive line. UCLA DT Brian Price would be a great grab at that spot, as would USC DE Everson Griffen. The Giants have long believed that you can never have enough pass rushers, and Griffen excels at getting to the QB. If Alabama ILB Rolando McClain somehow slips to 15th, the Giants should pounce.
And what about the Arizona Cardinals? After letting Rolle go and trading Boldin, they made another trade today, sending a 2010 fourth rounder and a 2011 seventh rounder to the New York Jets for Rhodes.
The Cardinals pick 26th, with a number of options. Acquiring Rhodes means they almost certainly won't use their pick on USC S Taylor Mays. On the offensive side of the ball, they've been so successful because of a three-receiver attack. They lost Boldin, but they do have Jerheme Urban and Early Doucet. Both showed flashes of brilliance in the playoffs.
It seems likely at this point that they'll try to draft a linebacker, given the recent departure of Karlos Dansby to the Miami Dolphins. If possible, they'll look toward Texas LB Sergio Kindle, and possibly use some of their latter round picks to trade up to grab him.
New York picks 15th in the first round - a prime position to make a pick on the defensive line. UCLA DT Brian Price would be a great grab at that spot, as would USC DE Everson Griffen. The Giants have long believed that you can never have enough pass rushers, and Griffen excels at getting to the QB. If Alabama ILB Rolando McClain somehow slips to 15th, the Giants should pounce.
And what about the Arizona Cardinals? After letting Rolle go and trading Boldin, they made another trade today, sending a 2010 fourth rounder and a 2011 seventh rounder to the New York Jets for Rhodes.
The Cardinals pick 26th, with a number of options. Acquiring Rhodes means they almost certainly won't use their pick on USC S Taylor Mays. On the offensive side of the ball, they've been so successful because of a three-receiver attack. They lost Boldin, but they do have Jerheme Urban and Early Doucet. Both showed flashes of brilliance in the playoffs.
It seems likely at this point that they'll try to draft a linebacker, given the recent departure of Karlos Dansby to the Miami Dolphins. If possible, they'll look toward Texas LB Sergio Kindle, and possibly use some of their latter round picks to trade up to grab him.
Clausen or Bradford?
We began the college football season with four QBs on the first round radar: Sam Bradford, Colt McCoy, Tim Tebow and Jevan Snead. Now, we're down to two: Bradford and Jimmy Clausen.
Bradford is ahead on many big boards, including ESPN's Big 2 (Scouts Inc. has Bradford at 9 and Clausen nowhere to be found; Mel Kiper Jr. has Clausen at 4 and Bradford 5). But on this big board, it's clear cut: Clausen is ahead.
Before I explain, let's take a look at the numbers:
Make no mistake about it, Sam Bradford had a phenomenal college career. He put up incredible numbers two years ago before missing most of this past season with an arm injury. He's going to make a good QB at the next level.
But Clausen has a few things that Bradford doesn't. He has a stronger arm and pretty good accuracy on the deep ball. He played in a more pro-style system at Notre Dame than Bradford did at Oklahoma, and threw the ball very well. Clausen has much more experience playing under center than Bradford, a major plus when it comes to the next level.
And Bradford scares me a bit with the injury. Clausen is a tougher QB than Bradford, and much more durable. Clausen fought through turf toe for a good portion of the season and continued to play for the Irish.
Bradford will still be a first round pick, and it would be surprising right now to see him fall out of the top 20. But the first QB off the board should be Clausen.
Bradford is ahead on many big boards, including ESPN's Big 2 (Scouts Inc. has Bradford at 9 and Clausen nowhere to be found; Mel Kiper Jr. has Clausen at 4 and Bradford 5). But on this big board, it's clear cut: Clausen is ahead.
Before I explain, let's take a look at the numbers:
Make no mistake about it, Sam Bradford had a phenomenal college career. He put up incredible numbers two years ago before missing most of this past season with an arm injury. He's going to make a good QB at the next level.
But Clausen has a few things that Bradford doesn't. He has a stronger arm and pretty good accuracy on the deep ball. He played in a more pro-style system at Notre Dame than Bradford did at Oklahoma, and threw the ball very well. Clausen has much more experience playing under center than Bradford, a major plus when it comes to the next level.
And Bradford scares me a bit with the injury. Clausen is a tougher QB than Bradford, and much more durable. Clausen fought through turf toe for a good portion of the season and continued to play for the Irish.
Bradford will still be a first round pick, and it would be surprising right now to see him fall out of the top 20. But the first QB off the board should be Clausen.
Friday, March 5, 2010
Draft Impact: Ravens Get Boldin
Finally, Baltimore Ravens QB Joe Flacco has his man.
The Ravens acquired former Arizona Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin Friday in exchange for picks in the third and fourth rounds. Baltimore also acquired Arizona's fifth round pick.
The teams pick back-to-back at the end of the first, with Baltimore selecting 25th and Arizona 26th. The trade does not mean, however, that the Ravens are definitely out of the receiver race.
Baltimore could use the pick to grab Illinois' Arrelious Benn or Notre Dame's Golden Tate. That would give Flacco and company a pair of playmaking receivers, an upgrade over the current group. The other option is to make a selection to bolster the secondary, with a group of talented corners available in the second half of the first round. Among the possibilities are Boise State's Kyle Wilson and Rutgers' Devin McCourty.
The Ravens acquired former Arizona Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin Friday in exchange for picks in the third and fourth rounds. Baltimore also acquired Arizona's fifth round pick.
The teams pick back-to-back at the end of the first, with Baltimore selecting 25th and Arizona 26th. The trade does not mean, however, that the Ravens are definitely out of the receiver race.
Baltimore could use the pick to grab Illinois' Arrelious Benn or Notre Dame's Golden Tate. That would give Flacco and company a pair of playmaking receivers, an upgrade over the current group. The other option is to make a selection to bolster the secondary, with a group of talented corners available in the second half of the first round. Among the possibilities are Boise State's Kyle Wilson and Rutgers' Devin McCourty.
Draft Impact: Bears Add Three
The Chicago Bears have been very busy in the free agent market, signing a trio of players: DE Julius Peppers, RB Chester Taylor and TE Brandon Manumaleuna.
There are two camps forming after these moves. One is the "Primed For a Title Run" camp, the other is the "When Did Daniel Snyder Take Over?" camp. There are some out there who believe the Bears just went on a terrible spending spree, and won't be rewarded for it.
But what does this mean for Chicago's drafting strategy? Not a whole lot. The Bears don't have a first round pick (the 11th overall selection belongs to Denver as part of the Jay Cutler trade). The Bears don't have a second round pick, either (the 42nd overall pick belongs to Tampa Bay as part of the Gaines Adams trade).
The Bears do have a third round pick, but by the time they make the 75th pick of the draft, a lot will have changed. It's a bit early to say that the Peppers, Taylor and Manumaleuna signings have drastically altered Chicago's draft day plans. There's a lot that can happen between now and the 75th pick.
There are two camps forming after these moves. One is the "Primed For a Title Run" camp, the other is the "When Did Daniel Snyder Take Over?" camp. There are some out there who believe the Bears just went on a terrible spending spree, and won't be rewarded for it.
But what does this mean for Chicago's drafting strategy? Not a whole lot. The Bears don't have a first round pick (the 11th overall selection belongs to Denver as part of the Jay Cutler trade). The Bears don't have a second round pick, either (the 42nd overall pick belongs to Tampa Bay as part of the Gaines Adams trade).
The Bears do have a third round pick, but by the time they make the 75th pick of the draft, a lot will have changed. It's a bit early to say that the Peppers, Taylor and Manumaleuna signings have drastically altered Chicago's draft day plans. There's a lot that can happen between now and the 75th pick.
Draft Impact: Jets Get Cromartie From SD
Welcome back to Grant Tunkel Mock Draft. I apologize for the long absence of content, but now I'm back and ready to go. We're under two months away from the NFL Draft, so it's time to get things rolling.
This is the first in a series of "Draft Impact" posts. These posts will talk about the draft implications of trades, signings and cuts.
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Before I even get to the draft impact of the New York Jets trade with the San Diego Chargers for CB Antonio Cromartie, Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum deserves a standing ovation.
This trade is a coup for New York, which now has the best CB tandem in the NFL. With Darrelle Revis on one side and Cromartie on the other, the Jets are saying to opponents: "I dare you to throw the football." Not many teams are going to take the bait. Cromartie also came at a remarkably low cost. The Jets gave up a third round pick in the 2011 draft for a former All-Pro CB. What a steal.
As far as the draft goes, it's now safe to say the Jets will not use the 29th overall pick on a CB. Boise State CB Kyle Wilson and Rutgers CB Devin McCourty were among those rumored to be options at 29, but not anymore. Now, it seems likely that the Jets will use 29 on a WR. Arrelious Benn (Illinois) and Golden Tate (Notre Dame) are possibilities that late in the first round. It's also possible the Jets will ship their 1st rounder to the Denver Broncos and acquire Brandon Marshall.
Where do the Chargers go from here? They pick 28th in the first round, and may target Wilson or McCourty to fill the void at CB. The Chargers also could draft an offensive tackle to provide depth.
This is the first in a series of "Draft Impact" posts. These posts will talk about the draft implications of trades, signings and cuts.
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Before I even get to the draft impact of the New York Jets trade with the San Diego Chargers for CB Antonio Cromartie, Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum deserves a standing ovation.
This trade is a coup for New York, which now has the best CB tandem in the NFL. With Darrelle Revis on one side and Cromartie on the other, the Jets are saying to opponents: "I dare you to throw the football." Not many teams are going to take the bait. Cromartie also came at a remarkably low cost. The Jets gave up a third round pick in the 2011 draft for a former All-Pro CB. What a steal.
As far as the draft goes, it's now safe to say the Jets will not use the 29th overall pick on a CB. Boise State CB Kyle Wilson and Rutgers CB Devin McCourty were among those rumored to be options at 29, but not anymore. Now, it seems likely that the Jets will use 29 on a WR. Arrelious Benn (Illinois) and Golden Tate (Notre Dame) are possibilities that late in the first round. It's also possible the Jets will ship their 1st rounder to the Denver Broncos and acquire Brandon Marshall.
Where do the Chargers go from here? They pick 28th in the first round, and may target Wilson or McCourty to fill the void at CB. The Chargers also could draft an offensive tackle to provide depth.
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