Nothing we didn't already know.
Alabama's defense was as dominant as it has been all season, shutting out LSU en route to a 21-0 victory in the BCS National Championship Game in New Orleans, Louisiana.
The Crimson Tide suffocated Tigers QB Jordan Jefferson and the rest of their attack, allowing 92 - 92! - yards of total offense in the game. The Tigers recorded just five first downs and didn't cross midfield until the fourth quarter.
As the game progressed, the nation got an opportunity to watch a team that could produce four or five first-round draft picks, most of which were on defense. The entire front seven could be a day one roll call (meaning the old day one, rounds one through three).
Leading the way was LB Courtney Upshaw, who recorded six tackles and one sack and earned defensive MVP honors. Defensive back Dre Kirkpatrick showed his versatility, flying all over the field to make plays.
One Alabama player who has gone a bit under the radar, but had a strong game last night, was defensive back De'Quan Menzie. He hasn't showcased the same playmaking ability as Kirkpatrick, but to the naked eye - watching on television without the benefit of coaches' tape - he seemed to turn in a strong game.
Then, of course, there's surefire top-10 pick Trent Richardson. The running back finished with 20 carries for 96 yards and the put-away touchdown, a 34-yard run in the fourth quarter to make it 21-0 Crimson Tide. It wasn't Richardson's best game - prior to the long scoring run, he had just 62 yards on 19 carries, one of which was a 20-yard rush. But he was effective in helping establish a ground game that accounted for 150 yards.
Upshaw, Kirkpatrick and Richardson are certain first round picks. Safety Mark Barron also should be selected in the first round. Linebacker Dont'a Hightower hasn't received a lot of recognition as a potential first-rounder, but a strong Combine could allow him to sneak into the end of the round.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Playoff Teams, but Help Needed
Four teams saw their post-season ended in the first round of the NFL playoffs. Each team had a critical flaw exposed, one that could be addressed in the April draft. Here's a look at each team, and an area of need.
Cincinnati Bengals: The Bengals' storybook season came to an end on Saturday in a 31-10 loss to the Houston Texans. They won nine games, led by strong performances from rookies Andy Dalton and A.J. Green. But Cincinnati allowed over 150 yards rushing and an untimely breakdown in the secondary to put the game away in Houston. The Bengals could look to use their lower-half pick in the first round on a defensive player, perhaps someone who can make an impact on a rotational basis while learning the ropes as a future starter. Cornerbacks Adam "Pacman" Jones and Nate Clements could benefit from an influx of youth in the secondary.
Detroit Lions: Detroit is another team that could use some help in the secondary. The Lions ranked 22nd in the league in passing yards allowed in the regular season and watched Saints QB Drew Brees throw the ball all over the field on Saturday night. They also could consider upgrading the running game, which ranked 29th in the league in total rushing yards during the regular season.
Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons do not have a first round pick in 2012 after trading it to the Cleveland Browns during last year's draft. Atlanta traded up to the sixth overall pick to select wide receiver Julio Jones. The trade sent last year's first-, second- and fourth-round picks as well as this year's first- and fourth-rounders to Cleveland. Atlanta might want to consider using its first pick of the draft - a second-rounder - on a defensive lineman with pass-rushing abilities. The Falcons tied for 19th in the league in sacks during the regular season.
Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers allowed the fewest passing yards in the league during the regular season, but they allowed over 300 to Broncos QB Tim Tebow in their 29-23 overtime loss on Sunday. Cornerback Ike Taylor had a less-than-stellar game, and the Steelers aren't getting any younger in the secondary. They could add a defensive back in the first round of the draft.
Cincinnati Bengals: The Bengals' storybook season came to an end on Saturday in a 31-10 loss to the Houston Texans. They won nine games, led by strong performances from rookies Andy Dalton and A.J. Green. But Cincinnati allowed over 150 yards rushing and an untimely breakdown in the secondary to put the game away in Houston. The Bengals could look to use their lower-half pick in the first round on a defensive player, perhaps someone who can make an impact on a rotational basis while learning the ropes as a future starter. Cornerbacks Adam "Pacman" Jones and Nate Clements could benefit from an influx of youth in the secondary.
Detroit Lions: Detroit is another team that could use some help in the secondary. The Lions ranked 22nd in the league in passing yards allowed in the regular season and watched Saints QB Drew Brees throw the ball all over the field on Saturday night. They also could consider upgrading the running game, which ranked 29th in the league in total rushing yards during the regular season.
Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons do not have a first round pick in 2012 after trading it to the Cleveland Browns during last year's draft. Atlanta traded up to the sixth overall pick to select wide receiver Julio Jones. The trade sent last year's first-, second- and fourth-round picks as well as this year's first- and fourth-rounders to Cleveland. Atlanta might want to consider using its first pick of the draft - a second-rounder - on a defensive lineman with pass-rushing abilities. The Falcons tied for 19th in the league in sacks during the regular season.
Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers allowed the fewest passing yards in the league during the regular season, but they allowed over 300 to Broncos QB Tim Tebow in their 29-23 overtime loss on Sunday. Cornerback Ike Taylor had a less-than-stellar game, and the Steelers aren't getting any younger in the secondary. They could add a defensive back in the first round of the draft.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Jones Heading Back to School
Oklahoma announced earlier today that quarterback Landry Jones is returning to school for his senior season.
Jones, who at the start of the season was considered by some to be the No. 2 QB prospect behind Stanford's Andrew Luck, did not have the stellar season many expected. He threw for fewer yards and touchdowns and recorded a lower completion percentage than his sophomore campaign.
His 28-14 touchdown-to-interception ratio was off of his 38-12 total from a year ago.
Jones will likely challenge USC quarterback Matt Barkley for the top quarterback spot - and possibly the No. 1 overall pick - in the 2013 NFL Draft.
Jones, who at the start of the season was considered by some to be the No. 2 QB prospect behind Stanford's Andrew Luck, did not have the stellar season many expected. He threw for fewer yards and touchdowns and recorded a lower completion percentage than his sophomore campaign.
His 28-14 touchdown-to-interception ratio was off of his 38-12 total from a year ago.
Jones will likely challenge USC quarterback Matt Barkley for the top quarterback spot - and possibly the No. 1 overall pick - in the 2013 NFL Draft.
Suitors for Jeffery: Cardinals, Eagles, Jets?
South Carolina WR Alshon Jeffery will garner a lot of attention from teams picking in the middle of the first round. Which of those teams could use a wide receiver, and might be inclined to select Jeffery?
Arizona Cardinals (No. 13): Regardless of who becomes the Cardinals' starting quarterback next season (Kevin Kolb, John Skelton or perhaps a late entrant), Arizona is going to need another wide receiver across from the all-world Larry Fitzgerald. After Fitzgerald's 80 catches for 1411 yards and eight touchdowns, no receiver had more than 54 catches and 689 yards. Jeffery would provide a big red zone upgrade for Arizona.
Philadelphia Eagles (No. 15): The Eagles finished the 2011 season at a disappointing 8-8 for a number of reasons. One of those was the inconsistent play of WR DeSean Jackson, who could test the free agent waters this offseason. Jackson finished with 58 catches for 961 yards and four touchdowns after posting back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons. Jackson also caught just four touchdowns, his lowest total since his rookie season, when he scored twice. Jeffery would provide Michael Vick with a big-time target and would fit in nicely alongside Jeremy Maclin and Brent Celek.
New York Jets (No. 16): There are a lot of questions surrounding the Jets' receiving corps in 2012. Will Plaxico Burress return? Will Santonio Holmes still be on the roster? Who will Mark Sanchez throw to? The answer might be Jeffery, who could make one of the league's best red zone teams even better in that department. He can stretch the field and provide the Jets with a big-play outlet.
Arizona Cardinals (No. 13): Regardless of who becomes the Cardinals' starting quarterback next season (Kevin Kolb, John Skelton or perhaps a late entrant), Arizona is going to need another wide receiver across from the all-world Larry Fitzgerald. After Fitzgerald's 80 catches for 1411 yards and eight touchdowns, no receiver had more than 54 catches and 689 yards. Jeffery would provide a big red zone upgrade for Arizona.
Philadelphia Eagles (No. 15): The Eagles finished the 2011 season at a disappointing 8-8 for a number of reasons. One of those was the inconsistent play of WR DeSean Jackson, who could test the free agent waters this offseason. Jackson finished with 58 catches for 961 yards and four touchdowns after posting back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons. Jackson also caught just four touchdowns, his lowest total since his rookie season, when he scored twice. Jeffery would provide Michael Vick with a big-time target and would fit in nicely alongside Jeremy Maclin and Brent Celek.
New York Jets (No. 16): There are a lot of questions surrounding the Jets' receiving corps in 2012. Will Plaxico Burress return? Will Santonio Holmes still be on the roster? Who will Mark Sanchez throw to? The answer might be Jeffery, who could make one of the league's best red zone teams even better in that department. He can stretch the field and provide the Jets with a big-play outlet.
Alshon Jeffery to Enter NFL Draft
ESPN's Joe Schad just tweeted a few moments ago that South Carolina WR Alshon Jeffery will enter the NFL Draft.
Jeffery has the physical tools to be a top-notch wide receiver at the next level - he stands at 6-4, 229, and has made some highlight-reel catches during his tenure at South Carolina.
From a numbers standpoint, his junior season pales in comparison to his outstanding sophomore season (49 catches, 762 yards, eight touchdowns versus 88 catches, 1517 yards, nine touchdowns). But Jeffery saved his best game for last, catching four balls for 148 yards and a touchdown in the Gamecocks' 30-13 Capital One Bowl win over Nebraska.
Jeffery is without question, at the moment, a top-20 pick in the first round of the draft. He can make an immediate impact as a red zone target and over time, develop into a receiver with the complete skill set.
Jeffery has the physical tools to be a top-notch wide receiver at the next level - he stands at 6-4, 229, and has made some highlight-reel catches during his tenure at South Carolina.
From a numbers standpoint, his junior season pales in comparison to his outstanding sophomore season (49 catches, 762 yards, eight touchdowns versus 88 catches, 1517 yards, nine touchdowns). But Jeffery saved his best game for last, catching four balls for 148 yards and a touchdown in the Gamecocks' 30-13 Capital One Bowl win over Nebraska.
Jeffery is without question, at the moment, a top-20 pick in the first round of the draft. He can make an immediate impact as a red zone target and over time, develop into a receiver with the complete skill set.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Update on NFL Draft Entrants
I am going to give this another go. It has been a long time since I updated this blog (the last post was on January 5th, 2011, about Andrew Luck being the odds-on favorite to be the No. 1 overall pick if he declares for the draft), but I'm back with news, notes, information and analysis. Enjoy.
Earlier today, ProFootballTalk.com (which, by the way, is a terrific source of football knowledge) posted about a number of players who have declared for the NFL Draft. Among the interesting names: Arizona State LB Vontaze Burfict and Rutgers WR Mohamed Sanu.
Burfict has all the talent in the world to be a top-notch linebacker, but questions have arisen about his work ethic and his ability to remain calm on the field. He has drawn a number of personal foul penalties in his Arizona State career and could be a liability on the field.
Sanu starred for the Scarlet Knights, catching 115 balls for 1,206 yards and seven touchdowns. He set the school and conference record for receptions. Sanu stands at 6-2, 215, according to the Rutgers website.
Earlier today, ProFootballTalk.com (which, by the way, is a terrific source of football knowledge) posted about a number of players who have declared for the NFL Draft. Among the interesting names: Arizona State LB Vontaze Burfict and Rutgers WR Mohamed Sanu.
Burfict has all the talent in the world to be a top-notch linebacker, but questions have arisen about his work ethic and his ability to remain calm on the field. He has drawn a number of personal foul penalties in his Arizona State career and could be a liability on the field.
Sanu starred for the Scarlet Knights, catching 115 balls for 1,206 yards and seven touchdowns. He set the school and conference record for receptions. Sanu stands at 6-2, 215, according to the Rutgers website.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Luck Should Be No. 1
Monday's Orange Bowl proved once again why Stanford QB Andrew Luck is the best draft-eligible quarterback in college football. The Cardinal signal-caller went 18-for-23 for 287 yards, four touchdowns and one interception on his way to MVP honors.
The game was just the latest in a string of phenomenal performances by the 6-4, 235-pound quarterback. He finished the season with 3,338 yards passing, 32 touchdowns and just eight interceptions. His QB rating was third among quarterbacks with qualifying statistics, trailing only Heisman Trophy winner Cam Newton and Heisman finalist Kellen Moore.
Luck finished with a 70.7 completion percentage, fifth in the nation. His 4:1 TD-to-INT ratio was among the best in the country as well.
Where does this put Luck if he decides to leave school and declare for the NFL Draft? At the very top.
If Luck enters the 2011 NFL Draft, he immediately becomes the top available prospect in the draft and the surefire, can't-miss No. 1 overall pick.
He has a strong arm and he's extremely accurate. Luck can make all the throws, and he makes good decisions with the football. He's an incredibly intelligent quarterback who is patient in the pocket and rarely forces throws. He doesn't let mistakes snowball, either. Luck was intercepted at least once in only six of the 13 games the Cardinal played this season, but only two of those games were multi-interception performances.
When the play breaks down, he can run with the football. Luck carried 55 times for 453 yards and three touchdowns this season after carrying 61 times for 354 yards and two touchdowns last season. He has not fumbled the ball in two years.
There should be no questions about his durability and strength. Luck has delivered his fair share of bruising hits, including one on USC defensive back Shareece Wright as he returned a fumble against Stanford.
There should be no questions about his ability to handle the spotlight, either. Luck has said all the right things leading up to his decision about the draft. One just has to look at his maturity during the post-Orange Bowl press conference, when he deflected questions about his future and chose to focus on the performance of his team.
Luck has proven he has the necessary skills to succeed at the next level, and if he does enter the draft, there's no doubt he should be the first overall pick.
The game was just the latest in a string of phenomenal performances by the 6-4, 235-pound quarterback. He finished the season with 3,338 yards passing, 32 touchdowns and just eight interceptions. His QB rating was third among quarterbacks with qualifying statistics, trailing only Heisman Trophy winner Cam Newton and Heisman finalist Kellen Moore.
Luck finished with a 70.7 completion percentage, fifth in the nation. His 4:1 TD-to-INT ratio was among the best in the country as well.
Where does this put Luck if he decides to leave school and declare for the NFL Draft? At the very top.
If Luck enters the 2011 NFL Draft, he immediately becomes the top available prospect in the draft and the surefire, can't-miss No. 1 overall pick.
He has a strong arm and he's extremely accurate. Luck can make all the throws, and he makes good decisions with the football. He's an incredibly intelligent quarterback who is patient in the pocket and rarely forces throws. He doesn't let mistakes snowball, either. Luck was intercepted at least once in only six of the 13 games the Cardinal played this season, but only two of those games were multi-interception performances.
When the play breaks down, he can run with the football. Luck carried 55 times for 453 yards and three touchdowns this season after carrying 61 times for 354 yards and two touchdowns last season. He has not fumbled the ball in two years.
There should be no questions about his durability and strength. Luck has delivered his fair share of bruising hits, including one on USC defensive back Shareece Wright as he returned a fumble against Stanford.
There should be no questions about his ability to handle the spotlight, either. Luck has said all the right things leading up to his decision about the draft. One just has to look at his maturity during the post-Orange Bowl press conference, when he deflected questions about his future and chose to focus on the performance of his team.
Luck has proven he has the necessary skills to succeed at the next level, and if he does enter the draft, there's no doubt he should be the first overall pick.
Monday, January 3, 2011
NFL Draft Order Officially Announced
The end of Week 17 marks an important point in the NFL season. The regular season is complete, the playoff picture is set, and the draft order begins to take shape.
Earlier today, the NFL officially announced the order for the 2011 draft from picks 1-20. Here is the list, according to NFL.com.
1. Carolina Panthers (2-14)
2. Denver Broncos (4-12)
3. Buffalo Bills (4-12)
4. Cincinnati Bengals (4-12)
5. Arizona Cardinals (5-11)
6. Cleveland Browns (5-11)
7. San Francisco 49ers (6-10)
8. Tennessee Titans (6-10)
9. Dallas Cowboys (6-10)
10. Washington Redskins (6-10)
11. Houston Texans (6-10)
12. Minnesota Vikings (6-10)
13. Detroit Lions (6-10)
14. Miami Dolphins (7-9)
15. St. Louis Rams (7-9)
16. Jacksonville Jaguars (8-8)
17. New England Patriots (from Oakland Raiders) (8-8)
18. San Diego Chargers (9-7)
19. New York Giants (10-6)
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-6)
A few notes about the draft order:
- The top 20 picks in this year's draft features two 10-6 teams, the Giants and Buccaneers. This is the first time the top 20 has a 10-6 team since the 2006 NFL Draft, when the Chiefs picked 20th after going 10-6 during the 2005 season and missing the playoffs.
- Three of the top 10 teams - the Panthers, Browns and 49ers - will have new head coaches in 2011. The Bengals, TItans, Dolphins and Jaguars could also fire their head coach. The Cowboys and Vikings appear close to removing the interim title from their current coaches.
Earlier today, the NFL officially announced the order for the 2011 draft from picks 1-20. Here is the list, according to NFL.com.
1. Carolina Panthers (2-14)
2. Denver Broncos (4-12)
3. Buffalo Bills (4-12)
4. Cincinnati Bengals (4-12)
5. Arizona Cardinals (5-11)
6. Cleveland Browns (5-11)
7. San Francisco 49ers (6-10)
8. Tennessee Titans (6-10)
9. Dallas Cowboys (6-10)
10. Washington Redskins (6-10)
11. Houston Texans (6-10)
12. Minnesota Vikings (6-10)
13. Detroit Lions (6-10)
14. Miami Dolphins (7-9)
15. St. Louis Rams (7-9)
16. Jacksonville Jaguars (8-8)
17. New England Patriots (from Oakland Raiders) (8-8)
18. San Diego Chargers (9-7)
19. New York Giants (10-6)
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-6)
A few notes about the draft order:
- The top 20 picks in this year's draft features two 10-6 teams, the Giants and Buccaneers. This is the first time the top 20 has a 10-6 team since the 2006 NFL Draft, when the Chiefs picked 20th after going 10-6 during the 2005 season and missing the playoffs.
- Three of the top 10 teams - the Panthers, Browns and 49ers - will have new head coaches in 2011. The Bengals, TItans, Dolphins and Jaguars could also fire their head coach. The Cowboys and Vikings appear close to removing the interim title from their current coaches.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
AFC Grades
BALTIMORE RAVENS
GRADE: A
EXPLANATION: Baltimore's success over the years has been predicated on defense, so they went out and drafted two top-notch defenders. Texas LB Sergio Kindle (No. 43) is a very good pass rusher and a steal in the second round. The Ravens skillfully traded out of the first round with Denver, acquiring three picks. Alabama DT Terrence Cody (No. 57), another second round pick, is a monster in the middle. If he gets into shape, he and Haloti Ngata will wreak havoc on defense. Tight ends Ed Dickson (No. 70) of Oregon and Dennis Pitta (No. 114) of BYU are very good pass-catching TEs. Both were selected with picks acquired in that first round trade.
BEST REMAINING PICK: DT Arthur Jones, Syracuse (R5/157)
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
GRADE: B+
EXPLANATION: Indianapolis' first three picks were very good. OLB Jerry Hughes (No. 31), the Colts' first round pick, was an All-American at TCU. He had 26 sacks over his final two seasons. Iowa ILB Patrick Angerer (No. 63), their second round pick, is another solid player. He had over 100 tackles his junior and senior years, and had six interceptions over those two seasons. USC CB Kevin Thomas (No. 94), their third round pick, has the size and agility to be a good CB in the NFL. He sometimes gets beat off the line, but overall, he's a good player. The rest of the Colts' picks will look to compete for backup positions.
BEST REMAINING PICK: OLB Kavell Conner, Clemson (R7/240)
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
GRADE: B+
EXPLANATION: The Patriots added a lot of depth, and some skill too. CB Devin McCourty (No. 27) was a solid but unspectacular pick in the first round. The selection of TEs Rob Gronkowski (No. 42) in the second round and Aaron Hernandez (No. 113) in the fourth round give the Patriots two pairs of great hands. Both are legitimate threats at the position. Florida LBs Jermaine Cunningham (No. 53) and Brandon Spikes (No. 62), both second round picks, have some work to do, but will have the chance to learn in Bill Belichick's system.
BEST REMAINING PICK: QB Zac Robinson, Oklahoma State (R7/250)
TENNESSEE TITANS
GRADE: B+
EXPLANATION: Tennessee came away with two great picks, and a few others who could pan out as well. DE Derrick Morgan was a great grab at No. 16 in the first round. He's adept at rushing the passer and a disruptive force against the run as well. The Titans added WR Damian Williams (No. 77) in the third round. He runs very good routes and excels at holding on to the football, making him an ideal #2 receiver. He reminds me of the Giants' Steve Smith. He's not particularly fast, but he's a solid all-around receiver. LB Rennie Curran (No. 97), a third round pick, and CB Alterraun Verner (No. 104), a fourth round pick, both have a lot of potential.
BEST REMAINING PICK: S Myron Rolle, Florida State (R6/207)
CINCINNATI BENGALS
GRADE: B/B+
EXPLANATION: Nothing about the Bengals' draft sticks out as a great pick, but Cincinnati turned in a solid draft. If first round Oklahoma TE Jermaine Gresham (No. 21) is healthy, he's a great pass-catching TE. Texas WR Jordan Shipley (No. 84) is quick and has good hands, but he'll have to prove he can do it at the pro level. The Bengals also made four hit or miss picks on defense, drafting Florida DE Carlos Dunlap (No. 54), Wake Forest CB Brandon Ghee (No. 96), Georgia DT Geno Atkins (No. 120) and Texas LB Roddrick Muckelroy (No. 131). Dunlap has great upside but major consistency issues. The same can be said for Atkins. If two of those four hit, this is a very solid draft.
BEST REMAINING PICK: WR Dezmon Briscoe, Kansas (R6/191)
CLEVELAND BROWNS
GRADE: B
EXPLANATION: The success of this draft will be based solely on Cleveland's third round pick, QB Colt McCoy. If he succeeds, it's an A, but if not, it's a bad grade. For now, the Browns get a B. The McCoy pick was a great one, waiting all the way until No. 85 to snag him. Florida CB Joe Haden, their first round choice at No. 7, is a flashy player with a knack for picks (8 in 3 seasons), but he still has work to do to be more consistent. Oregon S T.J. Ward was a reach in the early second round, and Tennessee RB Montario Hardesty is a bit injury prone, making him a risky pick in the late second round. But again, as McCoy goes, so goes this draft.
BEST REMAINING PICK: G Shawn Lauvao, Arizona State (R3/92)
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
GRADE: B
EXPLANATION: Safety Eric Berry (No. 5) will be a star in this league for years to come. He's got the perfect combination of size, speed and skill for the position. CB Javier Arenas (No. 50) was another good pick in the third round, although some question his ability to be a starter in the NFL. Still, he has great speed and should make an impact in the return game. The same can be said for RB Dexter McCluster (No. 36), the Chiefs' second round pick. He's undersized, but he has great speed and he can be a playmaker with the ball.
BEST REMAINING PICK: TE Tony Moeaki, Iowa (R3/93)
MIAMI DOLPHINS
GRADE: B
EXPLANATION: The Dolphins traded down from No. 12 to No. 28 and got three picks from the Chargers (one of which they traded away to the Cowboys), a very good move. They used that No. 28 pick to take Penn State DT Jared Odrick, a solid player. The Dolphins need help on their aging defensive line, and Odrick can step in immediately and work in the rotation. But nothing else about the Dolphins' draft stood out. LB Koa Misi (No. 40) was a good pick in the second round, but not a great one. Guard John Jerry (No. 73) was also a decent pick in the third round. There was nothing spectacular about the Dolphins' draft.
BEST REMAINING PICK: LB Austin Spitler, Ohio state (R7/252)
NEW YORK JETS
GRADE: B
EXPLANATION: The Jets got a big-time CB in Kyle Wilson (No. 29) in the first round. He's a playmaker who can be a star in the return game as well. But the "B" stands for a lot of things here. It stands for bold, as in the decision to cut Alan Faneca and draft Vladimir Ducasse (No. 61) in the second round was bold. The decision to trade Leon Washington and draft Joe McKnight (No. 112) was also bold. "B" stands for Bill, as in Bill Callahan. If the Jets' offensive line coach can't groom Ducasse into a solid replacement for Faneca, this draft will be far worse than a "B." The lack of draft depth isn't an issue in this grade, considering New York traded picks for WRs Braylon Edwards and Santonio Holmes.
BEST REMAINING PICK: FB John Conner, Kentucky (R5/139)
OAKLAND RAIDERS
GRADE: B
EXPLANATION: The Raiders' draft wasn't bad at all, considering their recent track record. Alabama ILB Rolando McClain (No. 8) was a little bit of a reach, but he's a better player than people give him credit for. He's a tough player and a big hitter. DT Lamarr Houston (No. 44) was a very good pick in the second round as well. The Raiders grabbed OT Bruce Campbell (No. 106) in the fourth round, a lineman with good size at 6-6 314 and big upside. Some thought Oakland would reach for him, but the team stayed patient and grabbed him on day three.
BEST REMAINING PICK: WR Jacoby Ford, Clemson (R4/108)
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
GRADE: B
EXPLANATION: The Steelers needed to come out of this draft with offensive line depth, linebacking depth and playmakers. They satisfied two of those needs. Florida lineman Maurkice Pouncey, their first round pick at No. 18, is a good player with versatility. He'll compete for a starting job and be a very viable backup. Pittsburgh chose three linebackers, including Virginia Tech's Jason Worilds in the second round (No. 52), but none who stand out. Ohio State's Thaddeus Gibson (No. 116), a fourth round pick, could end up being the best of the three, but he has work to do. The Steelers failed to grab an immediate impact playmaker on offense. All three skill position players they selected will need some work to develop into regular contributors.
BEST REMAINING PICK: RB Jonathan Dwyer, Georgia Tech (R6/188)
HOUSTON TEXANS
GRADE: B-
EXPLANATION: The Texans' biggest hole was at CB, and they addressed it in the first round when they drafted Alabama's Kareem Jackson (No. 20). Their decision to select Jackson over Kyle Wilson was surprising, but it might not have been the wrong move. The rest of the Texans' draft, however, wasn't great. Second round pick RB Ben Tate (No. 58) was chosen over a number of higher-ranked backs, and he'll probably be expected to play a big role for a team whose ground game wasn't very good last year.
BEST REMAINING PICK: TE Dorin Dickerson, Pittsburgh (R7/227)
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS
GRADE: B-
EXPLANATION: The Chargers reached for RB Ryan Matthews, trading up in the first round to get him at No. 12. The trade wasn't too lopsided, with the Chargers and Dolphins giving up three picks each. But it was still a reach for a player some thought would be available at their original pick at No. 28. Washington LB Donald Butler (No. 79) was a solid pick in the third round, a player who tackles very well and brings great intensity to the team. But the rest of San Diego's draft was unspectacular.
BEST REMAINING PICK: QB Jonathan Crompton, Tennessee (R5/168)
DENVER BRONCOS
GRADE: C+
EXPLANATION: The only reason the Broncos get such a low grade is because of - you guessed it - their pick of Tim Tebow at the end of the first round. In my opinion he's not a viable NFL quarterback, he's not better than Clausen and McCoy, and he's definitely a reach at No. 25 overall. Other than that, the Broncos draft was pretty good. WR Demaryius Thomas is a physical specimen who thrived in a triple option scheme at Georgia Tech. If he is able to adjust to a pro offense and learn more routes, he'll be a threat at the position for years to come. Minnesota WR Eric Decker (No. 87) was a very good pick in the third round. He's got very good size and good hands.
BEST REMAINING PICK: CB Syd'Quan Thompson, Cal (R7/225)
BUFFALO BILLS
GRADE: C
EXPLANATION: The selection of RB C.J. Spiller in the first round (No. 9) is a solid pick, despite the crowded backfield in Buffalo. But the Bills missed the mark in the rest of the draft. Central Florida DT Torell Troup (No. 41) was a reach in the second round. Buffalo also failed to draft a serviceable QB despite having their chances. The Bills did get Troy QB Levi Brown (No. 209) in the seventh round, but they passed up other QBs who would have been better picks.
BEST REMAINING PICK: DE Alex Carrington, Arkansas State (R3/72)
JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
GRADE: D
EXPLANATION: Jacksonville's draft started off on a bad note, when the Jaguars reached for Cal DT Tyson Alualu at No. 10 in the first round. He's a good player, but it's unclear whether he projects better in a 3-4 or 4-3 scheme. Jacksonville could have traded down in the first round and still grabbed him, and picked up picks in the process. None of Jacksonville's remaining picks were particularly good, either.
BEST REMAINING PICK: RB Deji Karim, Southern Illinois (R6/180)
GRADE: A
EXPLANATION: Baltimore's success over the years has been predicated on defense, so they went out and drafted two top-notch defenders. Texas LB Sergio Kindle (No. 43) is a very good pass rusher and a steal in the second round. The Ravens skillfully traded out of the first round with Denver, acquiring three picks. Alabama DT Terrence Cody (No. 57), another second round pick, is a monster in the middle. If he gets into shape, he and Haloti Ngata will wreak havoc on defense. Tight ends Ed Dickson (No. 70) of Oregon and Dennis Pitta (No. 114) of BYU are very good pass-catching TEs. Both were selected with picks acquired in that first round trade.
BEST REMAINING PICK: DT Arthur Jones, Syracuse (R5/157)
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
GRADE: B+
EXPLANATION: Indianapolis' first three picks were very good. OLB Jerry Hughes (No. 31), the Colts' first round pick, was an All-American at TCU. He had 26 sacks over his final two seasons. Iowa ILB Patrick Angerer (No. 63), their second round pick, is another solid player. He had over 100 tackles his junior and senior years, and had six interceptions over those two seasons. USC CB Kevin Thomas (No. 94), their third round pick, has the size and agility to be a good CB in the NFL. He sometimes gets beat off the line, but overall, he's a good player. The rest of the Colts' picks will look to compete for backup positions.
BEST REMAINING PICK: OLB Kavell Conner, Clemson (R7/240)
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
GRADE: B+
EXPLANATION: The Patriots added a lot of depth, and some skill too. CB Devin McCourty (No. 27) was a solid but unspectacular pick in the first round. The selection of TEs Rob Gronkowski (No. 42) in the second round and Aaron Hernandez (No. 113) in the fourth round give the Patriots two pairs of great hands. Both are legitimate threats at the position. Florida LBs Jermaine Cunningham (No. 53) and Brandon Spikes (No. 62), both second round picks, have some work to do, but will have the chance to learn in Bill Belichick's system.
BEST REMAINING PICK: QB Zac Robinson, Oklahoma State (R7/250)
TENNESSEE TITANS
GRADE: B+
EXPLANATION: Tennessee came away with two great picks, and a few others who could pan out as well. DE Derrick Morgan was a great grab at No. 16 in the first round. He's adept at rushing the passer and a disruptive force against the run as well. The Titans added WR Damian Williams (No. 77) in the third round. He runs very good routes and excels at holding on to the football, making him an ideal #2 receiver. He reminds me of the Giants' Steve Smith. He's not particularly fast, but he's a solid all-around receiver. LB Rennie Curran (No. 97), a third round pick, and CB Alterraun Verner (No. 104), a fourth round pick, both have a lot of potential.
BEST REMAINING PICK: S Myron Rolle, Florida State (R6/207)
CINCINNATI BENGALS
GRADE: B/B+
EXPLANATION: Nothing about the Bengals' draft sticks out as a great pick, but Cincinnati turned in a solid draft. If first round Oklahoma TE Jermaine Gresham (No. 21) is healthy, he's a great pass-catching TE. Texas WR Jordan Shipley (No. 84) is quick and has good hands, but he'll have to prove he can do it at the pro level. The Bengals also made four hit or miss picks on defense, drafting Florida DE Carlos Dunlap (No. 54), Wake Forest CB Brandon Ghee (No. 96), Georgia DT Geno Atkins (No. 120) and Texas LB Roddrick Muckelroy (No. 131). Dunlap has great upside but major consistency issues. The same can be said for Atkins. If two of those four hit, this is a very solid draft.
BEST REMAINING PICK: WR Dezmon Briscoe, Kansas (R6/191)
CLEVELAND BROWNS
GRADE: B
EXPLANATION: The success of this draft will be based solely on Cleveland's third round pick, QB Colt McCoy. If he succeeds, it's an A, but if not, it's a bad grade. For now, the Browns get a B. The McCoy pick was a great one, waiting all the way until No. 85 to snag him. Florida CB Joe Haden, their first round choice at No. 7, is a flashy player with a knack for picks (8 in 3 seasons), but he still has work to do to be more consistent. Oregon S T.J. Ward was a reach in the early second round, and Tennessee RB Montario Hardesty is a bit injury prone, making him a risky pick in the late second round. But again, as McCoy goes, so goes this draft.
BEST REMAINING PICK: G Shawn Lauvao, Arizona State (R3/92)
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
GRADE: B
EXPLANATION: Safety Eric Berry (No. 5) will be a star in this league for years to come. He's got the perfect combination of size, speed and skill for the position. CB Javier Arenas (No. 50) was another good pick in the third round, although some question his ability to be a starter in the NFL. Still, he has great speed and should make an impact in the return game. The same can be said for RB Dexter McCluster (No. 36), the Chiefs' second round pick. He's undersized, but he has great speed and he can be a playmaker with the ball.
BEST REMAINING PICK: TE Tony Moeaki, Iowa (R3/93)
MIAMI DOLPHINS
GRADE: B
EXPLANATION: The Dolphins traded down from No. 12 to No. 28 and got three picks from the Chargers (one of which they traded away to the Cowboys), a very good move. They used that No. 28 pick to take Penn State DT Jared Odrick, a solid player. The Dolphins need help on their aging defensive line, and Odrick can step in immediately and work in the rotation. But nothing else about the Dolphins' draft stood out. LB Koa Misi (No. 40) was a good pick in the second round, but not a great one. Guard John Jerry (No. 73) was also a decent pick in the third round. There was nothing spectacular about the Dolphins' draft.
BEST REMAINING PICK: LB Austin Spitler, Ohio state (R7/252)
NEW YORK JETS
GRADE: B
EXPLANATION: The Jets got a big-time CB in Kyle Wilson (No. 29) in the first round. He's a playmaker who can be a star in the return game as well. But the "B" stands for a lot of things here. It stands for bold, as in the decision to cut Alan Faneca and draft Vladimir Ducasse (No. 61) in the second round was bold. The decision to trade Leon Washington and draft Joe McKnight (No. 112) was also bold. "B" stands for Bill, as in Bill Callahan. If the Jets' offensive line coach can't groom Ducasse into a solid replacement for Faneca, this draft will be far worse than a "B." The lack of draft depth isn't an issue in this grade, considering New York traded picks for WRs Braylon Edwards and Santonio Holmes.
BEST REMAINING PICK: FB John Conner, Kentucky (R5/139)
OAKLAND RAIDERS
GRADE: B
EXPLANATION: The Raiders' draft wasn't bad at all, considering their recent track record. Alabama ILB Rolando McClain (No. 8) was a little bit of a reach, but he's a better player than people give him credit for. He's a tough player and a big hitter. DT Lamarr Houston (No. 44) was a very good pick in the second round as well. The Raiders grabbed OT Bruce Campbell (No. 106) in the fourth round, a lineman with good size at 6-6 314 and big upside. Some thought Oakland would reach for him, but the team stayed patient and grabbed him on day three.
BEST REMAINING PICK: WR Jacoby Ford, Clemson (R4/108)
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
GRADE: B
EXPLANATION: The Steelers needed to come out of this draft with offensive line depth, linebacking depth and playmakers. They satisfied two of those needs. Florida lineman Maurkice Pouncey, their first round pick at No. 18, is a good player with versatility. He'll compete for a starting job and be a very viable backup. Pittsburgh chose three linebackers, including Virginia Tech's Jason Worilds in the second round (No. 52), but none who stand out. Ohio State's Thaddeus Gibson (No. 116), a fourth round pick, could end up being the best of the three, but he has work to do. The Steelers failed to grab an immediate impact playmaker on offense. All three skill position players they selected will need some work to develop into regular contributors.
BEST REMAINING PICK: RB Jonathan Dwyer, Georgia Tech (R6/188)
HOUSTON TEXANS
GRADE: B-
EXPLANATION: The Texans' biggest hole was at CB, and they addressed it in the first round when they drafted Alabama's Kareem Jackson (No. 20). Their decision to select Jackson over Kyle Wilson was surprising, but it might not have been the wrong move. The rest of the Texans' draft, however, wasn't great. Second round pick RB Ben Tate (No. 58) was chosen over a number of higher-ranked backs, and he'll probably be expected to play a big role for a team whose ground game wasn't very good last year.
BEST REMAINING PICK: TE Dorin Dickerson, Pittsburgh (R7/227)
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS
GRADE: B-
EXPLANATION: The Chargers reached for RB Ryan Matthews, trading up in the first round to get him at No. 12. The trade wasn't too lopsided, with the Chargers and Dolphins giving up three picks each. But it was still a reach for a player some thought would be available at their original pick at No. 28. Washington LB Donald Butler (No. 79) was a solid pick in the third round, a player who tackles very well and brings great intensity to the team. But the rest of San Diego's draft was unspectacular.
BEST REMAINING PICK: QB Jonathan Crompton, Tennessee (R5/168)
DENVER BRONCOS
GRADE: C+
EXPLANATION: The only reason the Broncos get such a low grade is because of - you guessed it - their pick of Tim Tebow at the end of the first round. In my opinion he's not a viable NFL quarterback, he's not better than Clausen and McCoy, and he's definitely a reach at No. 25 overall. Other than that, the Broncos draft was pretty good. WR Demaryius Thomas is a physical specimen who thrived in a triple option scheme at Georgia Tech. If he is able to adjust to a pro offense and learn more routes, he'll be a threat at the position for years to come. Minnesota WR Eric Decker (No. 87) was a very good pick in the third round. He's got very good size and good hands.
BEST REMAINING PICK: CB Syd'Quan Thompson, Cal (R7/225)
BUFFALO BILLS
GRADE: C
EXPLANATION: The selection of RB C.J. Spiller in the first round (No. 9) is a solid pick, despite the crowded backfield in Buffalo. But the Bills missed the mark in the rest of the draft. Central Florida DT Torell Troup (No. 41) was a reach in the second round. Buffalo also failed to draft a serviceable QB despite having their chances. The Bills did get Troy QB Levi Brown (No. 209) in the seventh round, but they passed up other QBs who would have been better picks.
BEST REMAINING PICK: DE Alex Carrington, Arkansas State (R3/72)
JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
GRADE: D
EXPLANATION: Jacksonville's draft started off on a bad note, when the Jaguars reached for Cal DT Tyson Alualu at No. 10 in the first round. He's a good player, but it's unclear whether he projects better in a 3-4 or 4-3 scheme. Jacksonville could have traded down in the first round and still grabbed him, and picked up picks in the process. None of Jacksonville's remaining picks were particularly good, either.
BEST REMAINING PICK: RB Deji Karim, Southern Illinois (R6/180)
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Day 3 Wrap-Up
The third and final day of the 2010 draft is in the books, and not before some drama. The Raiders acquired Jason Campbell in a trade, the Seahawks dealt for LenDale White and Leon Washington, and a number of big names remained on the board following pick No. 255.
So who won and lost on the final day of the draft? Here's the wrap-up.
Three Winners
1) Oakland Raiders: It was a very good day for the Silver & Black. They drafted Maryland OT Bruce Campbell in the fourth round (No. 106), a player some thought they would reach for in the first three rounds. Two picks later, they picked speedy WR Jacoby Ford from Clemson (No. 108), a solid addition for a team that likes to run a fast offense. But their biggest move of the day came in the form of a trade, when they sent a 2012 fourth round pick to the Redskins in exchange for Campbell. He should be their week 1 starter at a cheap price. I'm not ready to anoint the Raiders Super Bowl champs. They're probably still a couple of pieces away from being a playoff contender. But they're on the right track.
2) Baltimore Ravens: Baltimore got some very good talent on day two. The Ravens drafted Ohio State OLB Thaddeus Gibson in the fourth round (No. 116). He was a solid player for the Buckeyes, and can develop into a fine NFL player with a little bit of work. Georgia Tech RB Jonathan Dwyer, a sixth round pick (No. 188), is a talented runner who thrived in the triple option scheme in Atlanta. He needs some work in a pro scheme, but he has the athleticism to make it. The Ravens also got great value when they drafted Gibson's college teammate, DE Doug Worthington, in the seventh round (No. 242).
3) Cincinnati Bengals: Both of the Bengals' fourth round selections were good value picks. Georgia DT Geno Atkins (No. 120) is a little small at 6-2 293, and he's been inconsistent (7 sacks in 2007; 0 in 08; 3 in 09), but he's shown he can play at a high level. Texas LB Roddrick Muckelroy (No. 131) amassed over 200 tackles in his final two seasons, including two sacks and an interception in his final season.
Three Losers
1) Buffalo Bills: Buffalo didn't make any glaring mistakes on day three, but the Bills failed to come out of the draft with a serviceable QB. They did draft Levi Brown of Troy in the seventh round (No. 209), but he's a far cry from Clausen and McCoy. They also passed on Central Michigan's Dan LeFevour, who went at No. 181 to the Bears, and Cincinnati's Tony Pike, who went at No. 204 to the Panthers.
2) Former Heisman hopefuls: How the mighty have fallen. Before the season, Mississippi QB Jevan Snead and Oregon RB LeGarrette Blount had their sights set on big-time seasons. Instead, Snead had a terrible year and Blount punched a Boise State player on opening night, costing him most of his season. Both men have reportedly signed contracts, with Snead heading to Tampa Bay according to Scout.com's Adam Caplan and Blount on his way to San Francisco according to NFL Network's Jason LaCanfora. Still, it's surprising to see both men go undrafted.
3) Draft change doubters: From what I could see, the three-day, twice-in-primetime 2010 NFL Draft was a big success. ESPN's Trey Wingo said there were plenty of fans left at Radio City Music Hall on Day 3. It also brought more intrigue to the second round and fourth round, with overnight trade buzz generating a lot of interest. The changes seemed to work.
Now it's on to the signing frenzy for undrafted rookie free agents. Snead and Blount are already signed. Michigan CB Donovan Warren is signing with the Jets, according to ESPN's Joe Schad. A number of other players will likely sign in the next couple of days as well.
That does it for the 2010 draft. Grades are coming over the next few days.
So who won and lost on the final day of the draft? Here's the wrap-up.
Three Winners
1) Oakland Raiders: It was a very good day for the Silver & Black. They drafted Maryland OT Bruce Campbell in the fourth round (No. 106), a player some thought they would reach for in the first three rounds. Two picks later, they picked speedy WR Jacoby Ford from Clemson (No. 108), a solid addition for a team that likes to run a fast offense. But their biggest move of the day came in the form of a trade, when they sent a 2012 fourth round pick to the Redskins in exchange for Campbell. He should be their week 1 starter at a cheap price. I'm not ready to anoint the Raiders Super Bowl champs. They're probably still a couple of pieces away from being a playoff contender. But they're on the right track.
2) Baltimore Ravens: Baltimore got some very good talent on day two. The Ravens drafted Ohio State OLB Thaddeus Gibson in the fourth round (No. 116). He was a solid player for the Buckeyes, and can develop into a fine NFL player with a little bit of work. Georgia Tech RB Jonathan Dwyer, a sixth round pick (No. 188), is a talented runner who thrived in the triple option scheme in Atlanta. He needs some work in a pro scheme, but he has the athleticism to make it. The Ravens also got great value when they drafted Gibson's college teammate, DE Doug Worthington, in the seventh round (No. 242).
3) Cincinnati Bengals: Both of the Bengals' fourth round selections were good value picks. Georgia DT Geno Atkins (No. 120) is a little small at 6-2 293, and he's been inconsistent (7 sacks in 2007; 0 in 08; 3 in 09), but he's shown he can play at a high level. Texas LB Roddrick Muckelroy (No. 131) amassed over 200 tackles in his final two seasons, including two sacks and an interception in his final season.
Three Losers
1) Buffalo Bills: Buffalo didn't make any glaring mistakes on day three, but the Bills failed to come out of the draft with a serviceable QB. They did draft Levi Brown of Troy in the seventh round (No. 209), but he's a far cry from Clausen and McCoy. They also passed on Central Michigan's Dan LeFevour, who went at No. 181 to the Bears, and Cincinnati's Tony Pike, who went at No. 204 to the Panthers.
2) Former Heisman hopefuls: How the mighty have fallen. Before the season, Mississippi QB Jevan Snead and Oregon RB LeGarrette Blount had their sights set on big-time seasons. Instead, Snead had a terrible year and Blount punched a Boise State player on opening night, costing him most of his season. Both men have reportedly signed contracts, with Snead heading to Tampa Bay according to Scout.com's Adam Caplan and Blount on his way to San Francisco according to NFL Network's Jason LaCanfora. Still, it's surprising to see both men go undrafted.
3) Draft change doubters: From what I could see, the three-day, twice-in-primetime 2010 NFL Draft was a big success. ESPN's Trey Wingo said there were plenty of fans left at Radio City Music Hall on Day 3. It also brought more intrigue to the second round and fourth round, with overnight trade buzz generating a lot of interest. The changes seemed to work.
Now it's on to the signing frenzy for undrafted rookie free agents. Snead and Blount are already signed. Michigan CB Donovan Warren is signing with the Jets, according to ESPN's Joe Schad. A number of other players will likely sign in the next couple of days as well.
That does it for the 2010 draft. Grades are coming over the next few days.
Jets Gamble on Joe
It's not often that a team trades its most explosive player for an unproven, inconsistent rookie running back.
But that's essentially what happened today when the Jets traded Leon Washington to Seattle and drafted USC RB Joe McKnight. It's not a straight up trade, but it's close to the same thing.
And it's a head-scratcher.
Washington was electrifying in green. He seemed to be capable of scoring every time he touched the football, and he had become a fan favorite. Sure, he suffered a terrible injury last season, relegating him to the injured list as Shonn Greene became a star overnight in the playoffs. Yes, the Jets went out and signed LaDanian Tomlinson in the offseason.
But how sure can the Jets be that Greene wasn't a flash in the pan? Does LT have anything left in the tank? If the answer is "no" to either question, Washington will be sorely missed. He's had plenty of time to recover from that leg injury, and he'll be close to 100% when camp begins, if not at it.
Now, all eyes turn to McKnight.
Few players have more raw talent than him. If you've seen the YouTube videos of him in high school, you know what he's capable of. Some people - myself included - anointed him the next Reggie Bush upon his arrival at USC. He was that good.
But McKnight never put it all together in cardinal and gold.
There was the fourth quarter against Arizona in 2007, when he dazzled the Coliseum crowd with a 45-yard punt return and a 59-yard run to set up USC's final 10 points and give the Trojans a come-from-behind, 20-13 win. There was the final drive at Ohio State in 2009, when McKnight gained 54 of USC's 96 yards, setting up the game-winning score over the Buckeyes.
These are just two of the flashes of brilliance in McKnight's otherwise disappointing career. He scored just 15 touchdowns on offense in three seasons, and rushed for over 1,000 yards just once - amassing 1,014 in his junior season, his final year at USC. McKnight struggled to hold on to the football at times, especially in the return game. It became such an issue that he lost his spot as a punt returner.
It's a bit much to expect him to step up and fill Leon's shoes. He never came close to filling Reggie's.
Can he eventually be that type of player? He has the skill to do it. But it's going to take a lot of work to make it happen.
But that's essentially what happened today when the Jets traded Leon Washington to Seattle and drafted USC RB Joe McKnight. It's not a straight up trade, but it's close to the same thing.
And it's a head-scratcher.
Washington was electrifying in green. He seemed to be capable of scoring every time he touched the football, and he had become a fan favorite. Sure, he suffered a terrible injury last season, relegating him to the injured list as Shonn Greene became a star overnight in the playoffs. Yes, the Jets went out and signed LaDanian Tomlinson in the offseason.
But how sure can the Jets be that Greene wasn't a flash in the pan? Does LT have anything left in the tank? If the answer is "no" to either question, Washington will be sorely missed. He's had plenty of time to recover from that leg injury, and he'll be close to 100% when camp begins, if not at it.
Now, all eyes turn to McKnight.
Few players have more raw talent than him. If you've seen the YouTube videos of him in high school, you know what he's capable of. Some people - myself included - anointed him the next Reggie Bush upon his arrival at USC. He was that good.
But McKnight never put it all together in cardinal and gold.
There was the fourth quarter against Arizona in 2007, when he dazzled the Coliseum crowd with a 45-yard punt return and a 59-yard run to set up USC's final 10 points and give the Trojans a come-from-behind, 20-13 win. There was the final drive at Ohio State in 2009, when McKnight gained 54 of USC's 96 yards, setting up the game-winning score over the Buckeyes.
These are just two of the flashes of brilliance in McKnight's otherwise disappointing career. He scored just 15 touchdowns on offense in three seasons, and rushed for over 1,000 yards just once - amassing 1,014 in his junior season, his final year at USC. McKnight struggled to hold on to the football at times, especially in the return game. It became such an issue that he lost his spot as a punt returner.
It's a bit much to expect him to step up and fill Leon's shoes. He never came close to filling Reggie's.
Can he eventually be that type of player? He has the skill to do it. But it's going to take a lot of work to make it happen.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Day 2 Wrap-Up
The second and third rounds of the draft are complete, and a few key questions were answered. How far would Jimmy Clausen fall? Even more than expected. When would Colt McCoy come off the board? Later than many people thought he would. Could Taylor Mays slide into the third round? No, the 49ers wouldn't let that happen.
Many questions still remain as we head into the final day of the 2010 draft, but before we get to those, let's take a look at the winners and losers of Day 2.
Three Winners
1) New England Patriots: The Pats made four picks on day two, and each was a good selection. Arizona TE Rob Gronkowski (2/42) is a solid pass-catcher who can challenge Alge Crumpler for the starting job, as well as learn from him. New England chose two Florida LBs, Jermaine Cunningham (2/53) and Brandon Spikes (2/ 62). Neither will be expected to start immediately and can learn in the system. The Pats grabbed a receiver in the third in Ohio's Taylor Price, another player who can learn in the system. But perhaps their best move of the day came in the third round, when they traded pick No. 89 to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for the Panthers' 2011 second round pick. New England now has two first round picks and two second round picks in next year's draft.
2) Minnesota Vikings: The Vikes traded out of the first round on Thursday night and made just two selections on day two, both in the second round. But they made their two picks count. Virginia CB Chris Cook (34) provides depth at a position that needed it. Then they traded up to draft Stanford RB Toby Gerhart, a bruising back who will be a great complement to Adrian Peterson. Both players have the potential to make big impacts as rookies.
3) Baltimore Ravens: Baltimore's defense got even better, and their offense became more explosive. DT Terrence Cody (2/57) is a force to be reckoned with in the middle, and he can work with Haloti Ngata to learn the trade. Oregon TE Ed Dickson (3/70) is a solid pass-catcher who can be another threat with Todd Heap. Dickson can also line up as a receiver if the Ravens need him to.
Three Losers
1. Buffalo Bills: Buffalo filled a need when it drafted DT Torell Troup with the No. 41 overall pick, but it was a reach that high in the second round. The Bills also failed to get a QB, passing on Clausen with their second-round selection and McCoy with their third. DE Alex Carrington could develop into a good player, but drafting a QB would have been a better decision.
2. A certain USC safety: It's been a rough few weeks for Taylor Mays. He was considered a likely first round pick before sliding to the middle of the second round. It was almost certain he would be the third safety off the board after Eric Berry and Earl Thomas. Instead, he was the third safety taken in the second round. Then, he decided to take a shot at former USC coach and current Seahawks coach Pete Carroll. It was not a good day for Mays.
3. Ohio State: The total number of Ohio State players taken in the first three rounds: 0. No, that's not a typo. 0 Buckeyes have been chosen so far. In case you were wondering, the Buckeyes have had 329 players drafted in their history. But 0 so far.
Top 5 Players Remaining
1. Everson Griffen, DE, USC
2. Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland
3. Ricky Sapp, DE, Clemson
4. Aaron Hernandez, TE, Florida
5. Thaddeus Gibson, DE, Ohio State
What to Watch For on Day 3
The USC Three: Griffen might have the most talent of anyone left in the draft, but will his inconsistency cause him to drop even more? What about RB Joe McKnight, who never quite put it together for the Trojans but still has playmaking ability. And when does TE Anthony McCoy come off the board, given his pass-catching ability and positive marijuana test?
Where is Pike's Place?: Cincinnati QB Tony Pike is the best QB on the board entering the fourth round. Washington (103), Seattle (104), Oakland (106) and Buffalo (107) all could be interested.
Plenty of CBs left: There is still a lot of talent left on the board at this position, including Oregon's Walter Thurmond and Cal's Syd'Quan Thompson. There's also been a lot of talk about Akwasi Owusu-Ansah of Indiana (PA).
Many questions still remain as we head into the final day of the 2010 draft, but before we get to those, let's take a look at the winners and losers of Day 2.
Three Winners
1) New England Patriots: The Pats made four picks on day two, and each was a good selection. Arizona TE Rob Gronkowski (2/42) is a solid pass-catcher who can challenge Alge Crumpler for the starting job, as well as learn from him. New England chose two Florida LBs, Jermaine Cunningham (2/53) and Brandon Spikes (2/ 62). Neither will be expected to start immediately and can learn in the system. The Pats grabbed a receiver in the third in Ohio's Taylor Price, another player who can learn in the system. But perhaps their best move of the day came in the third round, when they traded pick No. 89 to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for the Panthers' 2011 second round pick. New England now has two first round picks and two second round picks in next year's draft.
2) Minnesota Vikings: The Vikes traded out of the first round on Thursday night and made just two selections on day two, both in the second round. But they made their two picks count. Virginia CB Chris Cook (34) provides depth at a position that needed it. Then they traded up to draft Stanford RB Toby Gerhart, a bruising back who will be a great complement to Adrian Peterson. Both players have the potential to make big impacts as rookies.
3) Baltimore Ravens: Baltimore's defense got even better, and their offense became more explosive. DT Terrence Cody (2/57) is a force to be reckoned with in the middle, and he can work with Haloti Ngata to learn the trade. Oregon TE Ed Dickson (3/70) is a solid pass-catcher who can be another threat with Todd Heap. Dickson can also line up as a receiver if the Ravens need him to.
Three Losers
1. Buffalo Bills: Buffalo filled a need when it drafted DT Torell Troup with the No. 41 overall pick, but it was a reach that high in the second round. The Bills also failed to get a QB, passing on Clausen with their second-round selection and McCoy with their third. DE Alex Carrington could develop into a good player, but drafting a QB would have been a better decision.
2. A certain USC safety: It's been a rough few weeks for Taylor Mays. He was considered a likely first round pick before sliding to the middle of the second round. It was almost certain he would be the third safety off the board after Eric Berry and Earl Thomas. Instead, he was the third safety taken in the second round. Then, he decided to take a shot at former USC coach and current Seahawks coach Pete Carroll. It was not a good day for Mays.
3. Ohio State: The total number of Ohio State players taken in the first three rounds: 0. No, that's not a typo. 0 Buckeyes have been chosen so far. In case you were wondering, the Buckeyes have had 329 players drafted in their history. But 0 so far.
Top 5 Players Remaining
1. Everson Griffen, DE, USC
2. Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland
3. Ricky Sapp, DE, Clemson
4. Aaron Hernandez, TE, Florida
5. Thaddeus Gibson, DE, Ohio State
What to Watch For on Day 3
Second Round Analysis
64. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS: Charles Brown, OT, USC - A steal by the Saints to close out the second round. He's a good all-around tackle with good size and intangibles. Some people - myself included - had him as a first round pick. The Saints picked a potential starter in Brown.
63. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS: Pat Angerer, LB, Iowa - A bit of a reach by the Colts, but he has good upside. He ran a slow 40-time (in the 4.65 range), but he had a solid senior season, recording 135 tackles, a sack, two forced fumbles and one interception. He also had five picks the year before.
62. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (from Minnesota): Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida - Some people have Spikes rated higher than Sean Lee, who went earlier in the round. He's a passionate player who flies around the field. He's a hard hitter who can become a solid NFL player under the tutelage of Bill Belichick.
61. NEW YORK JETS: Vladimir Ducasse, OL, Massachusetts - The Jets need depth on the offensive line, and Ducasse is a good addition at this point. He's a big lineman at 6-4 330 and a solid guard. If the Jets trade or release Alan Faneca, Ducasse could challenge for the starting job.
60. SEATTLE SEAHAKWS (from San Diego): Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame - Tate is a steal for Seattle at this point in the draft. Head coach Pete Carroll knows him well, having coached against him at USC. He's a playmaking wide receiver with great hands and good speed. He runs good routes as well. Tate is versatile, in that he can throw the ball and run it, making him an ideal candidate for any type of Wildcat offense the Seahawks may run. He's also good in the return game.
59. CLEVELAND BROWNS (from Dallas): Montario Hardesty, RB, Tennessee - Cleveland was not a good rushing team last season, the Browns don't have a true No. 2 RB behind Jerome Harrison. Hardesty is a speedy back who can make people miss. Still a bit surprising, though, to see another running back taken instead of McKnight.
58. HOUSTON TEXANS (from New England): Ben Tate, RB, Auburn - Houston's ground game was not very good last season, and they needed to address it. Joe McKnight was the best running back left on my board, but Tate is bigger than McKnight and a better complement to Steve Slaton.
57. BALTIMORE RAVENS: Terrence Cody, NT, Alabama - Cody is a beast in the middle. He has the size to be a dominant nose tackle in the NFL, but he's a bit slow and seems to wear down as the game goes on. If he can get in NFL-level shape, he can wreak havoc in the middle with Haloti Ngata for years.
56. GREEN BAY: Mike Neal, DT, Purdue - He's too big to be a defensive end but a little small as a defensive tackle. He also has issues bringing it on every play. But when he's on his game, he can make things happen in the middle.
55. DALLAS COWBOYS (from Philadelphia): Sean Lee, ILB, Penn State - Lee is the second-best inside LB in the draft at a position the Cowboys need help. Still, he has injury concerns after tearing an ACL in 2008. But if he stays healthy, he can be a good player.
54. CINCINNATI BENGALS: Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida - Dunlap has the skills to be a top-15 pick, but he's had off
the field issues that accounted for his slide to this spot. If he can get things figured out, he has the potential to develop into one of the best steals in the draft.
53. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS: Jermaine Cunningham, OLB, FLorida - There's a group of linebackers left at this point in the draft who are similar in abilities, and the Pats pick a solid player out of that crop. new England needs to get younger on defense, and the youth movement continues with this pick.
52. PITTSBURGH STEELERS: Jason Worilds, DE/OLB, Virginia Tech - He's a little small to be a full-time defensive end, but he's got very good speed as a pass rusher and good agility as well. The Steelers can use him as a hybrid defender.
51. MINNESOTA VIKINGS (from Houston): Toby Gerhart, RB, Stanford - Gerhart is an old-school running back who isn't afraid to run people over on his way to the end zone. And he's very good at getting there. He provides a phenomenal complement to Adrian Peterson, Minnesota's own version of thunder and lightning.
50. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (from Atlanta): Javier Arenas, DB, Alabama - A bit of a reach for the Chiefs at this pick, but Arenas is an athletic defensive back. He has a knack for the ball, although his coverage skills are not top-notch. Arenas also gives the Chiefs a boost in the return game.
49. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS: Taylor Mays, S, USC - Mays has first round athletic skills with second or third round cover skills. With the right coaching, he can develop into a hard-hitting, Pro Bowl-caliber safety in the NFL. But he's going to have to work at it. Still, he's a physical specimen and the Niners get quite an athlete.
48. CAROLINA PANTHERS: Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame - A dream scenario for the Panthers. This was their first pick in the draft, and I doubt they believed they would have a shot at Clausen. Now, they add a QB with a pro-style skill set who has good pieces around him on the offensive line and at skill positions on offense. Clausen could start from day one.
47. ARIZONA CARDINALS (from New England): Daryl Washington, LB, TCU - The Cards had a hole at LB after the departure of Karlos Dansby, and this is a good move to fill the void. Washington can play as a LB and as a down lineman. He's a solid addition to Arizona's defense.
46. NEW YORK GIANTS: Linval Joseph, DT, East Carolina - Solid pick by the Giants. He has been rising up draft boards in the last few days. He has good athleticism and great size (6-5, 328).
45. DENVER BRONCOS: Zane Beadles, OL , Utah - An interesting pick by the Broncos. USC's Charles Brown is a better overall offensive lineman and UMass's Vladimir Ducasse is a better guard. Still, Beadles is a big player with a bit of versatility on the line.
44. OAKLAND RAIDERS (from New England): Lamarr Houston,, DT, Texas - Back-to-back Longhorns off the board in the second round. He's a big guy at 6-2, 300, and has good burst through the line. Oakland showing a clear commitment to defense.
43. BALTIMORE RAVENS: Sergio Kindle, DE/OLB, Texas - An absolute steal for the Ravens. He's quick to the ball, and if his knee stays healthy, he's going to be a star at the next level. He has great skills, and will improve under the tutelage of Ray Lewis.
42. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (from Oakland): Rob Gronkowski, TE, Arizona - Gronkowski is a solid pass-patcher with good blocking skills as well. He could start at tight end when the season opens.
41. BUFFALO BILLS: Torell Troup, DT, Central Florida - Troup is a bit of a reach, but he fills a need at DT.
40. MIAMI DOLPHINS: Koa Misi, LB, Utah - Interesting to see Misi off the board before Sergio Kindle, but a good pick by Miami. He has good size at 6-3, 251 pounds, and shows the Dolphins' continued commitment to improving their defense and getting younger.
39. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (from Oakland): Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois - Tampa Bay needs targets for Josh Freeman, and Benn is an excellent receiver. He's athletic and very good at jumping for the football. This is a great pick for the Bucs.
38. CLEVELAND BROWNS: T.J. Ward, S, Oregon - Ward's coverage skills are mediocre at best, but he's a physical specimen and he can hit. He does have injury concerns, though. It's surprising to see him off the board before Taylor Mays.
63. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS: Pat Angerer, LB, Iowa - A bit of a reach by the Colts, but he has good upside. He ran a slow 40-time (in the 4.65 range), but he had a solid senior season, recording 135 tackles, a sack, two forced fumbles and one interception. He also had five picks the year before.
62. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (from Minnesota): Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida - Some people have Spikes rated higher than Sean Lee, who went earlier in the round. He's a passionate player who flies around the field. He's a hard hitter who can become a solid NFL player under the tutelage of Bill Belichick.
61. NEW YORK JETS: Vladimir Ducasse, OL, Massachusetts - The Jets need depth on the offensive line, and Ducasse is a good addition at this point. He's a big lineman at 6-4 330 and a solid guard. If the Jets trade or release Alan Faneca, Ducasse could challenge for the starting job.
60. SEATTLE SEAHAKWS (from San Diego): Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame - Tate is a steal for Seattle at this point in the draft. Head coach Pete Carroll knows him well, having coached against him at USC. He's a playmaking wide receiver with great hands and good speed. He runs good routes as well. Tate is versatile, in that he can throw the ball and run it, making him an ideal candidate for any type of Wildcat offense the Seahawks may run. He's also good in the return game.
59. CLEVELAND BROWNS (from Dallas): Montario Hardesty, RB, Tennessee - Cleveland was not a good rushing team last season, the Browns don't have a true No. 2 RB behind Jerome Harrison. Hardesty is a speedy back who can make people miss. Still a bit surprising, though, to see another running back taken instead of McKnight.
58. HOUSTON TEXANS (from New England): Ben Tate, RB, Auburn - Houston's ground game was not very good last season, and they needed to address it. Joe McKnight was the best running back left on my board, but Tate is bigger than McKnight and a better complement to Steve Slaton.
57. BALTIMORE RAVENS: Terrence Cody, NT, Alabama - Cody is a beast in the middle. He has the size to be a dominant nose tackle in the NFL, but he's a bit slow and seems to wear down as the game goes on. If he can get in NFL-level shape, he can wreak havoc in the middle with Haloti Ngata for years.
56. GREEN BAY: Mike Neal, DT, Purdue - He's too big to be a defensive end but a little small as a defensive tackle. He also has issues bringing it on every play. But when he's on his game, he can make things happen in the middle.
55. DALLAS COWBOYS (from Philadelphia): Sean Lee, ILB, Penn State - Lee is the second-best inside LB in the draft at a position the Cowboys need help. Still, he has injury concerns after tearing an ACL in 2008. But if he stays healthy, he can be a good player.
54. CINCINNATI BENGALS: Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida - Dunlap has the skills to be a top-15 pick, but he's had off
the field issues that accounted for his slide to this spot. If he can get things figured out, he has the potential to develop into one of the best steals in the draft.
53. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS: Jermaine Cunningham, OLB, FLorida - There's a group of linebackers left at this point in the draft who are similar in abilities, and the Pats pick a solid player out of that crop. new England needs to get younger on defense, and the youth movement continues with this pick.
52. PITTSBURGH STEELERS: Jason Worilds, DE/OLB, Virginia Tech - He's a little small to be a full-time defensive end, but he's got very good speed as a pass rusher and good agility as well. The Steelers can use him as a hybrid defender.
51. MINNESOTA VIKINGS (from Houston): Toby Gerhart, RB, Stanford - Gerhart is an old-school running back who isn't afraid to run people over on his way to the end zone. And he's very good at getting there. He provides a phenomenal complement to Adrian Peterson, Minnesota's own version of thunder and lightning.
50. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (from Atlanta): Javier Arenas, DB, Alabama - A bit of a reach for the Chiefs at this pick, but Arenas is an athletic defensive back. He has a knack for the ball, although his coverage skills are not top-notch. Arenas also gives the Chiefs a boost in the return game.
49. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS: Taylor Mays, S, USC - Mays has first round athletic skills with second or third round cover skills. With the right coaching, he can develop into a hard-hitting, Pro Bowl-caliber safety in the NFL. But he's going to have to work at it. Still, he's a physical specimen and the Niners get quite an athlete.
48. CAROLINA PANTHERS: Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame - A dream scenario for the Panthers. This was their first pick in the draft, and I doubt they believed they would have a shot at Clausen. Now, they add a QB with a pro-style skill set who has good pieces around him on the offensive line and at skill positions on offense. Clausen could start from day one.
47. ARIZONA CARDINALS (from New England): Daryl Washington, LB, TCU - The Cards had a hole at LB after the departure of Karlos Dansby, and this is a good move to fill the void. Washington can play as a LB and as a down lineman. He's a solid addition to Arizona's defense.
46. NEW YORK GIANTS: Linval Joseph, DT, East Carolina - Solid pick by the Giants. He has been rising up draft boards in the last few days. He has good athleticism and great size (6-5, 328).
45. DENVER BRONCOS: Zane Beadles, OL , Utah - An interesting pick by the Broncos. USC's Charles Brown is a better overall offensive lineman and UMass's Vladimir Ducasse is a better guard. Still, Beadles is a big player with a bit of versatility on the line.
44. OAKLAND RAIDERS (from New England): Lamarr Houston,, DT, Texas - Back-to-back Longhorns off the board in the second round. He's a big guy at 6-2, 300, and has good burst through the line. Oakland showing a clear commitment to defense.
43. BALTIMORE RAVENS: Sergio Kindle, DE/OLB, Texas - An absolute steal for the Ravens. He's quick to the ball, and if his knee stays healthy, he's going to be a star at the next level. He has great skills, and will improve under the tutelage of Ray Lewis.
42. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (from Oakland): Rob Gronkowski, TE, Arizona - Gronkowski is a solid pass-patcher with good blocking skills as well. He could start at tight end when the season opens.
41. BUFFALO BILLS: Torell Troup, DT, Central Florida - Troup is a bit of a reach, but he fills a need at DT.
40. MIAMI DOLPHINS: Koa Misi, LB, Utah - Interesting to see Misi off the board before Sergio Kindle, but a good pick by Miami. He has good size at 6-3, 251 pounds, and shows the Dolphins' continued commitment to improving their defense and getting younger.
39. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (from Oakland): Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois - Tampa Bay needs targets for Josh Freeman, and Benn is an excellent receiver. He's athletic and very good at jumping for the football. This is a great pick for the Bucs.
38. CLEVELAND BROWNS: T.J. Ward, S, Oregon - Ward's coverage skills are mediocre at best, but he's a physical specimen and he can hit. He does have injury concerns, though. It's surprising to see him off the board before Taylor Mays.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
First Round Wrap-Up
The first round of the 2010 draft is in the books. It took just about 3 and a half hours - about as fast as any first round in recent memory. And in the span of 32 picks, there were surprises, trades, steals and everything in between. So who won, who lost, and what's left for the next six rounds? Here's the first round breakdown.
Three Winners
1) Detroit Lions: The Lions got the best player available in the draft at No. 2 in Ndamukong Suh. He'll make an instant impact. They traded back into the end of the first round to grab Cal RB Jahvid Best at No. 30. He's another player who can make an impact from the start of the season, and in a big way. He's a playmaker who can dazzle in the ground game, catching passes and in special teams.
2) Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins got exactly what they needed in the first round - a solid interior defensive lineman in Jared Odrick and additional draft picks. They didn't see the right value at No. 12 and traded with San Diego, getting No. 28 overall (which they used on Odrick), a second-round pick (No. 40) and a fourth-round pick (No. 126). Odrick is a good addition to an aging defensive line, and the picks give them a chance to add more talent.
3. Oakland Raiders fans: For once, the Raiders didn't completely upset their fans. Rolando McClain may not be exactly what they wanted, and No. 8 is a little high for him. But he has the potential to be a fine NFL player, and the Raiders could make the pick even better with solid drafting on days two and three.
Honorable mention: Seattle Seahawks for landing Russell Okung and Earl Thomas.
Three Losers
1) San Diego Chargers: The Chargers swapped first round picks with Miami and gave up two more selections, all to move up to No. 12 and draft Ryan Matthews. He's been rising up draft boards and has great upside, but No. 12 was too early to draft him. San Diego could have drafted Matthews later in the round, or taken Best, who went two picks after San Diego's original draft position.
2) Jacksonville Jaguars: The Jags needed help on defense, but reaching for Cal DT Tyson Alualu didn't make sense at No. 10. He's a good player and certainly would have been available at the end of the first round. Jacksonville's selection spot was highly-coveted, and the Jags would have been wise to trade down, add picks and still add Alualu. He's not a bad player, but the value isn't there at No. 10.
3) A certain Notre Dame quarterback: If you'd told me Jimmy Clausen was going to slide out of the first round, I would have been surprised, but not utterly shocked. If you'd told me Tim Tebow was going to be drafted before him, I'd have laughed. If you said both scenarios were going to play out, I would have called you downright crazy. But they did, and Clausen's wait lasts overnight. How much sleep do you think he will get before 6 pm ET on Friday?
Top 5 Players Remaining
1. Sergio Kindle, DE/OLB, Texas
2. Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame
3. Everson Griffen, DE, USC
4. Charles Brown, OT, USC
5. Daryl Washington, OLB, TCU
What to Watch For on Day 2
QB Crazy: There's likely to be a trading frenzy in the first few picks of the second round. Teams in need of a QB will try to move up to grab Clausen or Texas QB Colt McCoy. The Rams, Bucs and Eagles all could benefit from Clausen's slide. They could acquire additional picks in the process.
The Lions Line: Detroit added a couple of important pieces in the first round. Now, they need to bolster their offensive line in round three (they traded their second round pick to get Best). If the Lions are able to add a lineman on day two, they'll be in the running for the big winner of the draft.
Pittsburgh's Return Path: The Steelers went the safe route in round one and drafted an offensive lineman, Maurkice Pouncey of Florida. They have a hole in the receiving corps and a number of other needs. Pittsburgh needs to add a WR in round two.
Three Winners
1) Detroit Lions: The Lions got the best player available in the draft at No. 2 in Ndamukong Suh. He'll make an instant impact. They traded back into the end of the first round to grab Cal RB Jahvid Best at No. 30. He's another player who can make an impact from the start of the season, and in a big way. He's a playmaker who can dazzle in the ground game, catching passes and in special teams.
2) Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins got exactly what they needed in the first round - a solid interior defensive lineman in Jared Odrick and additional draft picks. They didn't see the right value at No. 12 and traded with San Diego, getting No. 28 overall (which they used on Odrick), a second-round pick (No. 40) and a fourth-round pick (No. 126). Odrick is a good addition to an aging defensive line, and the picks give them a chance to add more talent.
3. Oakland Raiders fans: For once, the Raiders didn't completely upset their fans. Rolando McClain may not be exactly what they wanted, and No. 8 is a little high for him. But he has the potential to be a fine NFL player, and the Raiders could make the pick even better with solid drafting on days two and three.
Honorable mention: Seattle Seahawks for landing Russell Okung and Earl Thomas.
Three Losers
1) San Diego Chargers: The Chargers swapped first round picks with Miami and gave up two more selections, all to move up to No. 12 and draft Ryan Matthews. He's been rising up draft boards and has great upside, but No. 12 was too early to draft him. San Diego could have drafted Matthews later in the round, or taken Best, who went two picks after San Diego's original draft position.
2) Jacksonville Jaguars: The Jags needed help on defense, but reaching for Cal DT Tyson Alualu didn't make sense at No. 10. He's a good player and certainly would have been available at the end of the first round. Jacksonville's selection spot was highly-coveted, and the Jags would have been wise to trade down, add picks and still add Alualu. He's not a bad player, but the value isn't there at No. 10.
3) A certain Notre Dame quarterback: If you'd told me Jimmy Clausen was going to slide out of the first round, I would have been surprised, but not utterly shocked. If you'd told me Tim Tebow was going to be drafted before him, I'd have laughed. If you said both scenarios were going to play out, I would have called you downright crazy. But they did, and Clausen's wait lasts overnight. How much sleep do you think he will get before 6 pm ET on Friday?
Top 5 Players Remaining
1. Sergio Kindle, DE/OLB, Texas
2. Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame
3. Everson Griffen, DE, USC
4. Charles Brown, OT, USC
5. Daryl Washington, OLB, TCU
What to Watch For on Day 2
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Mock Draft Version 3.0
FIRST ROUND
1. ST. LOUIS RAMS: Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma
Bradford is, quite simply, a franchise quarterback. Durability shouldn't be an issue, and he has the ability to thrive in a pro system. Bradford may not win immediately, but with a couple more pieces around him, the Rams could return to prominence.
2. DETROIT LIONS: Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska
I've said it all along - Suh is a rare talent who comes around only every so often. He can beat double and triple teams, sack the quarterback, move laterally to stop the run, block field goals and even lead block around the goal line. He's an easy choice at number two.
3. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS: Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma
Some boards have McCoy higher than Suh. He's a phenomenal player and has the chance to make an impact from day one. Could he be the Warren Sapp-like player the Bucs have hoped for? They hope so.
4. WASHINGTON REDSKINS: Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma
Russell Okung is the most polished of the offensive tackles, but recent draft buzz has Williams as the pick here. He could end up being the best of them all, given his size and athleticism. A little bit of coaching could make him a perennial Pro Bowler in the NFL.
5. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS: Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State
All of this Eric Berry to the Chiefs talk is making safety a distinct possibility, but the Chiefs have a glaring need at offensive tackle. If Okung is available, how could they not pounce on him? He's the most ready of all the tackles and he can start from the moment the ball is first snapped on offense. Berry will likely end up a star in the league, but Okung will as well. This pick makes the most sense for the Chiefs.
6. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS: Eric Berry, S, Tennessee
Speaking of Berry, Seattle should take him here. The Seahawks have a number of needs including offensive tackle, making Bryan Bulaga an enticing choice. But Berry is the guy, a clear-cut superstar in waiting. Plus, based on Pete Carroll's Twitter clues, Berry is the guy. He probably also comes highly recommended from former Tennessee head coach and defensive coordinator and current USC coaches Lane and Monte Kiffin.
7. CLEVELAND BROWNS: Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech
Cleveland probably wants Berry, but Morgan has the ability to be a great player. He's very quick around the end, he can get to the quarterback and stop the run, and he can play on every down.
8. OAKLAND RAIDERS: Mike Iupati, G, Idaho
If you have any idea who the Raiders are going to take, please call 1-800-GTDraft. Just kidding. But trying to guess Al Davis' draft plans is a difficult task. Michael Smith of ESPN Tweeted earlier in the week that Iupati to the Raiders was picking up momentum, and it makes sense. He's versatile (he can play guard or tackle) and probably a reach, and Davis loves versatility and poor drafting.
9. BUFFALO BILLS: Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa
If the Bills don't take Jimmy Clausen, they should take Bulaga. They have a big need at offensive tackle (notice a theme in the top 10 picks?) and Bulaga will compete for a starting job in training camp. He's a very good player with good size.
10. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS: C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson
It's a possibility that Spiller falls this far, and if he does, the Jaguars may pounce. He could spell Maurice Jones-Drew and slow down the wear and tear on one of the league's best backs. Plus, he can catch passes out of the backfield and provide a dual threat with MJD.
11. DENVER BRONCOS (from Chicago): Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama
I'm convinced the Broncos won't take Dez Bryant because of his issues, and McClain is the answer. He fills a big hole and can start from day one. He had a fine career at Alabama and should be a solid LB in the NFL.
12. MIAMI DOLPHINS: Dan Williams, NT, Tennessee
Williams is the best true nose tackle available in this draft class, and the Dolphins don't have a true, number one player at the position. It'll be difficult to imagine Bill Parcells and Co. passing him up.
13. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS: Earl Thomas, S, Texas
The Niners pick twice in the first round and have a number of needs to fill. This might be a little high to draft a safety, but Thomas is a gifted player and a smart move here.
14. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (from Denver): Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers
Seattle also has two picks in the first round and a major hole on the offensive line. Davis is a solid pro prospect with the upside of being a great player in the the league. He is the last of the top four tackles worthy of a pick this high, and picking him here makes sense.
15. NEW YORK GIANTS: Brandon Graham, OLB, Michigan
Graham is a very underrated linebacker with a solid skillset. The Giants need help in the LB corps, and Graham can provide depth in his first year and be a starter in his second year.
16. TENNESSEE TITANS: Joe Haden, CB, Florida
This is a dream scenario for the Titans. They need major help in the secondary and Haden is the best CB available. He's got great ball skills and playmaking abilities.
17. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (from Carolina): Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame
The Niners don't have a viable option at quarterback, despite what Mike Singletary and the San Francisco brass might lead you to believe. Clausen has a pro skillset and can challenge for the starting role.
18. PITTSBURGH STEELERS: Maurkice Pouncey, OL, Florida
Pittsburgh needs help along the offensive line, and Pouncey can provide that help at center and guard. He can be a viable option all season. Dez Bryant is available here, but the Steelers likely won't take him. They don't want another headache caused by a player with perceived character issues.
19. ATLANTA FALCONS: Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida
Pierre-Paul is an interesting player. He has the skills to be a top 10 pick, but he's got raw talent after only starting a handful of games at the Division I level. He's a project, but after a year or two in the league, he can develop into a star player.
20. HOUSTON TEXANS: Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State
A lot of people are underrating Wilson, who proved he's a ball-hawking CB at Boise State. He is a playmaker in the secondary and can improve even more with a year in the NFL. Houston needs a CB after losing Dunta Robinson, and Wilson can step into that void.
21. CINCINNATI BENGALS: Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State
One team that doesn't have an issue drafting players with so-called character issues is Cincinnati. Bryant has a tremendous amount of talent and could be the offensive piece missing since the departure of T.J. Houshmandzadeh. Bryant gives Carson Palmer another deep threat aside from Chad OchoCinco.
22. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS: Sergio Kindle, OLB/DE, Texas
New England's defense is getting older by the minute, and the Patriots are in need of pass-rushers. Kindle is a hybrid player who Bill Belichick can mold into another defensive star. The Patriots could also trade out of this pick if the see value in doing so.
23. GREEN BAY PACKERS: Charles Brown, OT, USC
Remember last year, when Aaron Rodgers spent more time on his back than just about any QB in the league? The situation improved over the year, but it's still not where it needs to be. Brown is a reach at No. 23, but he's a solid tackle who can start from day one. Green Bay needs the help and the depth.
24. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES: Kareem Jackson, CB, Alabama
The Eagles would love for Brown to fall to them, but they'll settle for help in the secondary instead. Jackson is the best CB left at this point, and he's their pick.
25. BALTIMORE RAVENS: Taylor Mays, S, USC
Taylor Mays is one of the biggest question marks in the entire draft. Can he be an NFL-caliber safety, or is he better served becoming a pass-rushing OLB? Mays has serious athletic skills and could thrive under the tutelage of Ed Reed. The Ravens can afford to take that gamble here.
26. ARIZONA CARDINALS: Demaryius Thomas, WR, Georgia Tech
After trading Anquan Boldin during the offseason, Arizona needs a pass-catching target for whoever their QB is. Thomas was one of the best playmaking receivers in college football this past season - in the triple option. Put him in a pro offense, and the sky's the limit. Worst case scenario, he's a productive deep threat as the No. 3 or No. 4 receiver. Best case scenario, the Cardinals don't miss a beat with him.
27. DALLAS COWBOYS: Roger Saffold, OT, Indiana
Dallas is in dire need of offensive line help. Saffold is a reach here, but he's rising up draft boards fast. And did I mention the Cowboys really need help on the offensive line?
28. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS: Ryan Matthews, RB, Fresno State
San Diego was effective with a two running back system, and with LaDanian Tomlinson ineffective last year, the offense wasn't as dominant as it could have been. Matthews may not be a star-studded pick, but he can work with Darren Sproles to be an effective tandem.
29. NEW YORK JETS: Everson Griffen, DE, USC
When Griffen gave 100% during his career at USC, he was arguably the best pass rusher in the Pac-10 Conference. He had some issues with his work ethic, landing him in Pete Carroll's doghouse, but his upside is tremendous. He already has the skills to be an effective DE in the NFL, and the chance to learn from Jason Taylor and Shaun Ellis could pay dividends for him and the Jets.
30. MINNESOTA VIKINGS: Jared Odrick, DT, Penn State
Minnesota needs help on the interior defensive line, and there are a couple of players in the same class at this stage of the draft. Odrick is the choice over UCLA's Brian Price, but barely. He doesn't have to make a major impact right away, and with a year of work, he can be a solid player.
31. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS: Jerry Hughes, OLB/DE, TCU
In the right system with the right coaches, Hughes could develop into one of the steals of the draft. He's a hybrid player like Kindle but with less name cache, which is the only thing working against him. Hughes doesn't have to be a day one impact player on the Colts and will benefit from a year of growth.
32. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS: Sean Weatherspoon, OLB, Missouri
The defending Super Bowl champs are in an interesting position here. They could trade out of the first round with a team looking to draft Colt McCoy or Tim Tebow. But if they stay here, they can take Weatherspoon, an OLB with big upside. He also provides solid depth at a position of need.
SECOND ROUND
33. ST. LOUIS RAMS: Tyson Alualu, DT, California
34. DETROIT LIONS: Daryl Washington, OLB, TCU
35. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS: Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois
36. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS: Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma
37. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (from Washington): Brian Price, DT, UCLA
38. CLEVELAND BROWNS: Colt McCoy, QB, Texas
39. OAKLAND RAIDERS: Lamarr Houston, DT, Texas
40. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS (from Seattle): Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers
41. BUFFALO BILLS: Tim Tebow, QB, Florida
42. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (from Chicago): Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida
43. DENVER BRONCOS (from Miami): Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame
44. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (from Jacksonville): Damian Williams, WR, USC
45. DENVER BRONCOS: Jahvid Best, RB, Cal
46. NEW YORK GIANTS: Sean Lee, ILB, Penn State
47. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (from Tennessee): Rob Gronkowski, TE, Arizona
48. CAROLINA PANTHERS: Patrick Robinson, CB, Florida State
49. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS: Jon Asamoah, G, Illinois
50. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (from Atlanta): Terrence Cody, NT, Alabama
51. HOUSTON TEXANS: Navorro Bowman, OLB, Penn State
52. PITTSBURGH STEELERS: Chris Cook, CB, Virginia
53. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS: Linval Joseph, DT, East Carolina
54. CINCINNATI BENGALS: Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida
55. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES: Koa Misi, OLB, Utah
56. GREEN BAY PACKERS: Nate Allen, S, South Florida
57. BALTIMORE RAVENS: Thaddeus Gibson, DE, Ohio State
58. ARIZONA CARDINALS: Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland
59. DALLAS COWBOYS: Vladimir Ducasse, G, Massachusetts
60. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (from San Diego): Eric Decker, WR, Minnesota
61. NEW YORK JETS: John Jerry, G, Mississippi
62. MINNESOTA VIKINGS: Toby Gerhart, RB, Stanford
63. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS: Gene Atkins, DT, Georgia
64. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS: Anthony McCoy, TE, USC
1. ST. LOUIS RAMS: Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma
Bradford is, quite simply, a franchise quarterback. Durability shouldn't be an issue, and he has the ability to thrive in a pro system. Bradford may not win immediately, but with a couple more pieces around him, the Rams could return to prominence.
2. DETROIT LIONS: Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska
I've said it all along - Suh is a rare talent who comes around only every so often. He can beat double and triple teams, sack the quarterback, move laterally to stop the run, block field goals and even lead block around the goal line. He's an easy choice at number two.
3. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS: Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma
Some boards have McCoy higher than Suh. He's a phenomenal player and has the chance to make an impact from day one. Could he be the Warren Sapp-like player the Bucs have hoped for? They hope so.
4. WASHINGTON REDSKINS: Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma
Russell Okung is the most polished of the offensive tackles, but recent draft buzz has Williams as the pick here. He could end up being the best of them all, given his size and athleticism. A little bit of coaching could make him a perennial Pro Bowler in the NFL.
5. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS: Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State
All of this Eric Berry to the Chiefs talk is making safety a distinct possibility, but the Chiefs have a glaring need at offensive tackle. If Okung is available, how could they not pounce on him? He's the most ready of all the tackles and he can start from the moment the ball is first snapped on offense. Berry will likely end up a star in the league, but Okung will as well. This pick makes the most sense for the Chiefs.
6. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS: Eric Berry, S, Tennessee
Speaking of Berry, Seattle should take him here. The Seahawks have a number of needs including offensive tackle, making Bryan Bulaga an enticing choice. But Berry is the guy, a clear-cut superstar in waiting. Plus, based on Pete Carroll's Twitter clues, Berry is the guy. He probably also comes highly recommended from former Tennessee head coach and defensive coordinator and current USC coaches Lane and Monte Kiffin.
7. CLEVELAND BROWNS: Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech
Cleveland probably wants Berry, but Morgan has the ability to be a great player. He's very quick around the end, he can get to the quarterback and stop the run, and he can play on every down.
8. OAKLAND RAIDERS: Mike Iupati, G, Idaho
If you have any idea who the Raiders are going to take, please call 1-800-GTDraft. Just kidding. But trying to guess Al Davis' draft plans is a difficult task. Michael Smith of ESPN Tweeted earlier in the week that Iupati to the Raiders was picking up momentum, and it makes sense. He's versatile (he can play guard or tackle) and probably a reach, and Davis loves versatility and poor drafting.
9. BUFFALO BILLS: Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa
If the Bills don't take Jimmy Clausen, they should take Bulaga. They have a big need at offensive tackle (notice a theme in the top 10 picks?) and Bulaga will compete for a starting job in training camp. He's a very good player with good size.
10. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS: C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson
It's a possibility that Spiller falls this far, and if he does, the Jaguars may pounce. He could spell Maurice Jones-Drew and slow down the wear and tear on one of the league's best backs. Plus, he can catch passes out of the backfield and provide a dual threat with MJD.
11. DENVER BRONCOS (from Chicago): Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama
I'm convinced the Broncos won't take Dez Bryant because of his issues, and McClain is the answer. He fills a big hole and can start from day one. He had a fine career at Alabama and should be a solid LB in the NFL.
12. MIAMI DOLPHINS: Dan Williams, NT, Tennessee
Williams is the best true nose tackle available in this draft class, and the Dolphins don't have a true, number one player at the position. It'll be difficult to imagine Bill Parcells and Co. passing him up.
13. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS: Earl Thomas, S, Texas
The Niners pick twice in the first round and have a number of needs to fill. This might be a little high to draft a safety, but Thomas is a gifted player and a smart move here.
14. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (from Denver): Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers
Seattle also has two picks in the first round and a major hole on the offensive line. Davis is a solid pro prospect with the upside of being a great player in the the league. He is the last of the top four tackles worthy of a pick this high, and picking him here makes sense.
15. NEW YORK GIANTS: Brandon Graham, OLB, Michigan
Graham is a very underrated linebacker with a solid skillset. The Giants need help in the LB corps, and Graham can provide depth in his first year and be a starter in his second year.
16. TENNESSEE TITANS: Joe Haden, CB, Florida
This is a dream scenario for the Titans. They need major help in the secondary and Haden is the best CB available. He's got great ball skills and playmaking abilities.
17. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (from Carolina): Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame
The Niners don't have a viable option at quarterback, despite what Mike Singletary and the San Francisco brass might lead you to believe. Clausen has a pro skillset and can challenge for the starting role.
18. PITTSBURGH STEELERS: Maurkice Pouncey, OL, Florida
Pittsburgh needs help along the offensive line, and Pouncey can provide that help at center and guard. He can be a viable option all season. Dez Bryant is available here, but the Steelers likely won't take him. They don't want another headache caused by a player with perceived character issues.
19. ATLANTA FALCONS: Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida
Pierre-Paul is an interesting player. He has the skills to be a top 10 pick, but he's got raw talent after only starting a handful of games at the Division I level. He's a project, but after a year or two in the league, he can develop into a star player.
20. HOUSTON TEXANS: Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State
A lot of people are underrating Wilson, who proved he's a ball-hawking CB at Boise State. He is a playmaker in the secondary and can improve even more with a year in the NFL. Houston needs a CB after losing Dunta Robinson, and Wilson can step into that void.
21. CINCINNATI BENGALS: Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State
One team that doesn't have an issue drafting players with so-called character issues is Cincinnati. Bryant has a tremendous amount of talent and could be the offensive piece missing since the departure of T.J. Houshmandzadeh. Bryant gives Carson Palmer another deep threat aside from Chad OchoCinco.
22. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS: Sergio Kindle, OLB/DE, Texas
New England's defense is getting older by the minute, and the Patriots are in need of pass-rushers. Kindle is a hybrid player who Bill Belichick can mold into another defensive star. The Patriots could also trade out of this pick if the see value in doing so.
23. GREEN BAY PACKERS: Charles Brown, OT, USC
Remember last year, when Aaron Rodgers spent more time on his back than just about any QB in the league? The situation improved over the year, but it's still not where it needs to be. Brown is a reach at No. 23, but he's a solid tackle who can start from day one. Green Bay needs the help and the depth.
24. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES: Kareem Jackson, CB, Alabama
The Eagles would love for Brown to fall to them, but they'll settle for help in the secondary instead. Jackson is the best CB left at this point, and he's their pick.
25. BALTIMORE RAVENS: Taylor Mays, S, USC
Taylor Mays is one of the biggest question marks in the entire draft. Can he be an NFL-caliber safety, or is he better served becoming a pass-rushing OLB? Mays has serious athletic skills and could thrive under the tutelage of Ed Reed. The Ravens can afford to take that gamble here.
26. ARIZONA CARDINALS: Demaryius Thomas, WR, Georgia Tech
After trading Anquan Boldin during the offseason, Arizona needs a pass-catching target for whoever their QB is. Thomas was one of the best playmaking receivers in college football this past season - in the triple option. Put him in a pro offense, and the sky's the limit. Worst case scenario, he's a productive deep threat as the No. 3 or No. 4 receiver. Best case scenario, the Cardinals don't miss a beat with him.
27. DALLAS COWBOYS: Roger Saffold, OT, Indiana
Dallas is in dire need of offensive line help. Saffold is a reach here, but he's rising up draft boards fast. And did I mention the Cowboys really need help on the offensive line?
28. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS: Ryan Matthews, RB, Fresno State
San Diego was effective with a two running back system, and with LaDanian Tomlinson ineffective last year, the offense wasn't as dominant as it could have been. Matthews may not be a star-studded pick, but he can work with Darren Sproles to be an effective tandem.
29. NEW YORK JETS: Everson Griffen, DE, USC
When Griffen gave 100% during his career at USC, he was arguably the best pass rusher in the Pac-10 Conference. He had some issues with his work ethic, landing him in Pete Carroll's doghouse, but his upside is tremendous. He already has the skills to be an effective DE in the NFL, and the chance to learn from Jason Taylor and Shaun Ellis could pay dividends for him and the Jets.
30. MINNESOTA VIKINGS: Jared Odrick, DT, Penn State
Minnesota needs help on the interior defensive line, and there are a couple of players in the same class at this stage of the draft. Odrick is the choice over UCLA's Brian Price, but barely. He doesn't have to make a major impact right away, and with a year of work, he can be a solid player.
31. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS: Jerry Hughes, OLB/DE, TCU
In the right system with the right coaches, Hughes could develop into one of the steals of the draft. He's a hybrid player like Kindle but with less name cache, which is the only thing working against him. Hughes doesn't have to be a day one impact player on the Colts and will benefit from a year of growth.
32. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS: Sean Weatherspoon, OLB, Missouri
The defending Super Bowl champs are in an interesting position here. They could trade out of the first round with a team looking to draft Colt McCoy or Tim Tebow. But if they stay here, they can take Weatherspoon, an OLB with big upside. He also provides solid depth at a position of need.
SECOND ROUND
33. ST. LOUIS RAMS: Tyson Alualu, DT, California
34. DETROIT LIONS: Daryl Washington, OLB, TCU
35. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS: Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois
36. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS: Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma
37. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (from Washington): Brian Price, DT, UCLA
38. CLEVELAND BROWNS: Colt McCoy, QB, Texas
39. OAKLAND RAIDERS: Lamarr Houston, DT, Texas
40. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS (from Seattle): Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers
41. BUFFALO BILLS: Tim Tebow, QB, Florida
42. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (from Chicago): Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida
43. DENVER BRONCOS (from Miami): Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame
44. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (from Jacksonville): Damian Williams, WR, USC
45. DENVER BRONCOS: Jahvid Best, RB, Cal
46. NEW YORK GIANTS: Sean Lee, ILB, Penn State
47. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (from Tennessee): Rob Gronkowski, TE, Arizona
48. CAROLINA PANTHERS: Patrick Robinson, CB, Florida State
49. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS: Jon Asamoah, G, Illinois
50. KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (from Atlanta): Terrence Cody, NT, Alabama
51. HOUSTON TEXANS: Navorro Bowman, OLB, Penn State
52. PITTSBURGH STEELERS: Chris Cook, CB, Virginia
53. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS: Linval Joseph, DT, East Carolina
54. CINCINNATI BENGALS: Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida
55. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES: Koa Misi, OLB, Utah
56. GREEN BAY PACKERS: Nate Allen, S, South Florida
57. BALTIMORE RAVENS: Thaddeus Gibson, DE, Ohio State
58. ARIZONA CARDINALS: Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland
59. DALLAS COWBOYS: Vladimir Ducasse, G, Massachusetts
60. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (from San Diego): Eric Decker, WR, Minnesota
61. NEW YORK JETS: John Jerry, G, Mississippi
62. MINNESOTA VIKINGS: Toby Gerhart, RB, Stanford
63. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS: Gene Atkins, DT, Georgia
64. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS: Anthony McCoy, TE, USC
Cardinals Hope to Repair Wings
The Arizona Cardinals had a difficult offseason, losing a number of key players. They'll turn to the draft to replenish their roster, starting at No. 26 tomorrow night. KSCR 1560 AM in Los Angeles' Dave Dulberg, a Cardinals fan, believes the team has a few options in the first round.
In the valley of the sun expectations could not be higher regarding the Arizona Cardinals. Over a two year span, in which the team has won two division titles and been on the doorstep of football immortality, a franchise that was once despised for its frugal ownership, game day choke jobs, and draft day busts (yes I’m talking to you Wendell Bryant and Andre Wadsworth) has become the team of the city.
But just as the team and its growing faithful began reveling in the success of the past two campaigns, it seems the 180-degree transformation may have hit a bit of a speed bump this off-season. For an organization coming off its best statistical regular season since relocating to desert in 1987, it seemed more than plausible that the team would spend the months following their 42-14 Conference Semifinals shellacking at the hands of the Super Bowl champion New Orleans Saints retooling rather than reviving.
However, in typical “Cardinal fashion” anything that is too good to be true, probably is. In a less than a month, the team lost its spiritual and offensive leader Kurt Warner to retirement, its defensive punch in Karlos Dansby and Antrell Rolle to free agency, and arguably its strongest force, both mentally and physically, in Anquan Boldin, whose departure via trade was written on the wall months earlier.
While the team tried to save face with both its fans and players, bringing in an aging interior linebacker who is past his prime (Joey Porter), a one-hit wonder whose accuracy leaves something to be desired (Derek Anderson), and a tempestuous cornerback with a checkered work ethic, still leaves the Redbirds with some work to do this weekend at the NFL Draft. Even if their talent alone is good enough today to capture a third straight division title in the NFC West, which is easily the worst division in professional sports, the team’s manic makeover leaves them with an inexperienced quarterback in a league defined by the position.
Although the departure of Warner, Boldin, Dansby, and Rolle on the surface appear to have created holes in playmaking positions, the biggest loss for a team predicated on its 3-4 defense, was the retirement of Bertrand Berry. While Thursday night will be full of nose tackles and defensive ends like Gerald McCoy and Dan Williams going off draft boards early in the night, the Cards' best bet at No. 26 is to fill Berry’s role with a versatile linebacker who will: a) further along the maturation process of Will Davis and Ali Highsmith through competition; b) allow the newly-signed Porter to roam freely on the outside; or c) provide versatility both as run-stopper and third down rusher (both qualities Berry exhibited throughout his tenure).
The big names that come to mind from a linebacker standpoint are Big 12 studs Sean Weatherspoon (Missouri) and Sergio Kindle (Texas). While they both are without a doubt the two most athletic pro-ready backers in the draft, in many ways their high marks basically cancel each other out, leaving the potential that one falls to the latter part of the first round. If those two names are called quicker than expected, look for the Cardinals to go after two-time All-American Jerry Hughes from TCU. The reigning MWC Defensive Player of the Year is the ultimate DE/LB hybrid in this year’s draft and could be a more than admirable fit for NFC West champs at No. 26. While undersized, his quickness off the line combined with the uncanny amount of strength he displayed with his 11.5 sacks in 2009, makes him an instant bona fide pass rusher a la Dwight Freeney.
If all else fails the Redbirds could look to add a pass catching threat for Leinart, and if they choose to go in that direction, it most likely will come from the tight end position- in particular, Oklahoma’s Jermaine Gresham. While a right meniscus tear kept him out of playing his senior season, with his 6’5”, 251-pound frame it is no wonder he caught 25 touchdowns his final two seasons in Norman. If any early round prospect can help make up for the loss of Boldin, it is the physical Gresham, who plays more like a big receiver than a tight end.
For now it’s a waiting game, or for Cardinals’ fans, a praying game. Let’s just hope the Bidwill family doesn’t do anything stupid, after all the draft’s now in primeti
In the valley of the sun expectations could not be higher regarding the Arizona Cardinals. Over a two year span, in which the team has won two division titles and been on the doorstep of football immortality, a franchise that was once despised for its frugal ownership, game day choke jobs, and draft day busts (yes I’m talking to you Wendell Bryant and Andre Wadsworth) has become the team of the city.
But just as the team and its growing faithful began reveling in the success of the past two campaigns, it seems the 180-degree transformation may have hit a bit of a speed bump this off-season. For an organization coming off its best statistical regular season since relocating to desert in 1987, it seemed more than plausible that the team would spend the months following their 42-14 Conference Semifinals shellacking at the hands of the Super Bowl champion New Orleans Saints retooling rather than reviving.
However, in typical “Cardinal fashion” anything that is too good to be true, probably is. In a less than a month, the team lost its spiritual and offensive leader Kurt Warner to retirement, its defensive punch in Karlos Dansby and Antrell Rolle to free agency, and arguably its strongest force, both mentally and physically, in Anquan Boldin, whose departure via trade was written on the wall months earlier.
While the team tried to save face with both its fans and players, bringing in an aging interior linebacker who is past his prime (Joey Porter), a one-hit wonder whose accuracy leaves something to be desired (Derek Anderson), and a tempestuous cornerback with a checkered work ethic, still leaves the Redbirds with some work to do this weekend at the NFL Draft. Even if their talent alone is good enough today to capture a third straight division title in the NFC West, which is easily the worst division in professional sports, the team’s manic makeover leaves them with an inexperienced quarterback in a league defined by the position.
Although the departure of Warner, Boldin, Dansby, and Rolle on the surface appear to have created holes in playmaking positions, the biggest loss for a team predicated on its 3-4 defense, was the retirement of Bertrand Berry. While Thursday night will be full of nose tackles and defensive ends like Gerald McCoy and Dan Williams going off draft boards early in the night, the Cards' best bet at No. 26 is to fill Berry’s role with a versatile linebacker who will: a) further along the maturation process of Will Davis and Ali Highsmith through competition; b) allow the newly-signed Porter to roam freely on the outside; or c) provide versatility both as run-stopper and third down rusher (both qualities Berry exhibited throughout his tenure).
The big names that come to mind from a linebacker standpoint are Big 12 studs Sean Weatherspoon (Missouri) and Sergio Kindle (Texas). While they both are without a doubt the two most athletic pro-ready backers in the draft, in many ways their high marks basically cancel each other out, leaving the potential that one falls to the latter part of the first round. If those two names are called quicker than expected, look for the Cardinals to go after two-time All-American Jerry Hughes from TCU. The reigning MWC Defensive Player of the Year is the ultimate DE/LB hybrid in this year’s draft and could be a more than admirable fit for NFC West champs at No. 26. While undersized, his quickness off the line combined with the uncanny amount of strength he displayed with his 11.5 sacks in 2009, makes him an instant bona fide pass rusher a la Dwight Freeney.
If all else fails the Redbirds could look to add a pass catching threat for Leinart, and if they choose to go in that direction, it most likely will come from the tight end position- in particular, Oklahoma’s Jermaine Gresham. While a right meniscus tear kept him out of playing his senior season, with his 6’5”, 251-pound frame it is no wonder he caught 25 touchdowns his final two seasons in Norman. If any early round prospect can help make up for the loss of Boldin, it is the physical Gresham, who plays more like a big receiver than a tight end.
For now it’s a waiting game, or for Cardinals’ fans, a praying game. Let’s just hope the Bidwill family doesn’t do anything stupid, after all the draft’s now in primeti
News and Notes on 4/21
We're just about 24 hours away from the Draft and the news, notes and rumors are flowing. The NFL announced today that it has suspended Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger for six games, which makes a possible Draft day trade even more complicated. Here's a look at the rest of the day's information.
NFL Network's Rich Eisen Tweeted earlier today that the Steelers offered Ben Roethlisberger to the Rams and St. Louis said no thanks.
Seahawks coach Pete Carroll informed the Twitter-sphere that he will be Tweeting clues about Seattle's draft plans throughout the day. So far, the clues lead me to believe Clemson's C.J. Spiller could be the pick. But he can't go off the board at No. 6, right? And there's no chance he's still available at No. 14, right? But then again, nobody has ever accused me of being Sherlock Holmes.
ESPN is reporting that Florida QB Tim Tebow will not be attending the Draft.
The Redskins already have Donovan McNabb, but they still may consider Sam Bradford, writes Rick Maese in yesterday's The Washington Post.
Monday, April 19, 2010
The Forgotten QB
Does the name Colt McCoy ring a bell?
If it doesn't, I won't blame you. After all, the QB talk these days is centered around the other three. We seem to know where Sam Bradford will be drafted. Now the question is whether it's by the St. Louis Rams or the Cleveland Browns.
Notre Dame's Jimmy Clausen is the likely next QB off the board, but is it to the Oakland Raiders at No. 8? How about the Buffalo Bills at No. 9? Or is it somewhere in Aaron Rodgers territory?
And Tim Tebow? He seems to be the most intriguing player in the draft based on the number of times you hear his name on a given day.
But McCoy is nowhere to be found. Save for Jon Gruden's QB Camp on ESPN, he is a relative no-show. Expect the same on Thursday night.
Sure, he has the mental makeup of a top QB. He has the college stats to back it up. Other than his injury in the National Championship Game, he's durable. But he is not a first round pick.
ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. has McCoy at No. 25 on his latest Big Board (as of April 14), which is surprising. Yes, he's got a good arm and good size (6-2, 210). Yes, those numbers are very impressive: He threw 61 touchdowns against 20 interceptions in his final two college seasons and had a completion percentage over 70.0% both years.
But there are a number of questions surrounding McCoy.
Is he fully recovered from the title game injury, and is his arm back to 100%? Does he have enough mobility to survive at the next level? After all, he was sacked 78 times over his final three seasons in Austin. Most importantly, do his stats belie his abilities, having played in a favorable system?
Make no mistake, he is a good QB, and has as good a shot as anyone in this draft class of succeeding as a signal-caller in the NFL. Still, he's a clear notch below Bradford and Clausen. Tebow has shown promise with his revamped throwing style, and his versatility trumps McCoy's.
So where does that leave Colt? He's clearly a day two pick, and probably mid to late second round. If the Pittsburgh Steelers are serious about trading Ben Roethlisberger, he could be taken at No. 52 overall (20th in the second round). Maybe the Arizona Cardinals (58th overall) or the Seattle Seahawks (60th overall) take him. These are all possibilities.
Just don't expect Thursday to be McCoy's night.
If it doesn't, I won't blame you. After all, the QB talk these days is centered around the other three. We seem to know where Sam Bradford will be drafted. Now the question is whether it's by the St. Louis Rams or the Cleveland Browns.
Notre Dame's Jimmy Clausen is the likely next QB off the board, but is it to the Oakland Raiders at No. 8? How about the Buffalo Bills at No. 9? Or is it somewhere in Aaron Rodgers territory?
And Tim Tebow? He seems to be the most intriguing player in the draft based on the number of times you hear his name on a given day.
But McCoy is nowhere to be found. Save for Jon Gruden's QB Camp on ESPN, he is a relative no-show. Expect the same on Thursday night.
Sure, he has the mental makeup of a top QB. He has the college stats to back it up. Other than his injury in the National Championship Game, he's durable. But he is not a first round pick.
ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. has McCoy at No. 25 on his latest Big Board (as of April 14), which is surprising. Yes, he's got a good arm and good size (6-2, 210). Yes, those numbers are very impressive: He threw 61 touchdowns against 20 interceptions in his final two college seasons and had a completion percentage over 70.0% both years.
But there are a number of questions surrounding McCoy.
Is he fully recovered from the title game injury, and is his arm back to 100%? Does he have enough mobility to survive at the next level? After all, he was sacked 78 times over his final three seasons in Austin. Most importantly, do his stats belie his abilities, having played in a favorable system?
Make no mistake, he is a good QB, and has as good a shot as anyone in this draft class of succeeding as a signal-caller in the NFL. Still, he's a clear notch below Bradford and Clausen. Tebow has shown promise with his revamped throwing style, and his versatility trumps McCoy's.
So where does that leave Colt? He's clearly a day two pick, and probably mid to late second round. If the Pittsburgh Steelers are serious about trading Ben Roethlisberger, he could be taken at No. 52 overall (20th in the second round). Maybe the Arizona Cardinals (58th overall) or the Seattle Seahawks (60th overall) take him. These are all possibilities.
Just don't expect Thursday to be McCoy's night.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Daily Notes 4/17
We're less than a week away from the NFL Draft, and here's a look at some news and notes from around the league:
- Former Nebraska DT Ndamukong Suh isn't sure we're he'll end up on draft day, but today, he told the Cornhuskers he'll be making a $2.6 million donation to the school.
- Speaking of Suh, Detroit Lions DB Louis Delmas said today the big DT would allow him to "sit back, read the quarterback and break on the ball." This after new Lions DB Chris Houston told the Detroit News he wants his team to draft Suh.
- Jane McManus of ESPNNewYork looks at former USC DE Everson Griffen, someone Mel Kiper Jr. says could be "a terror in the Rex Ryan system."
- BYU's all-time leading rusher, Harvey Unga, has decided to leave school because of a violation of the school's honor code, according to the Las Vegas Sun. The Sun also said Unga will try to enter the NFL Supplemental Draft in July.
- Former Nebraska DT Ndamukong Suh isn't sure we're he'll end up on draft day, but today, he told the Cornhuskers he'll be making a $2.6 million donation to the school.
- Speaking of Suh, Detroit Lions DB Louis Delmas said today the big DT would allow him to "sit back, read the quarterback and break on the ball." This after new Lions DB Chris Houston told the Detroit News he wants his team to draft Suh.
- Jane McManus of ESPNNewYork looks at former USC DE Everson Griffen, someone Mel Kiper Jr. says could be "a terror in the Rex Ryan system."
- BYU's all-time leading rusher, Harvey Unga, has decided to leave school because of a violation of the school's honor code, according to the Las Vegas Sun. The Sun also said Unga will try to enter the NFL Supplemental Draft in July.
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