Who will be the 1st overall pick in 2009?

[st.cronin]

Its not too early to speculate!

[DeToxRox]

Andre Smith or Michael Oher.

[RedKingGold]

I really think Mark Sanchez should be up here (especially over Tim Tebow).

[Fidatelo]

I'm choosing Oher because he was in Blind Side and that book was good.

[st.cronin]

I really think Mark Sanchez should be up here (especially over Tim Tebow).

These are the qbs, in order, on Drafttek's big board (which is a composite of a bunch of different scout sites):

Tim Tebow, Florida
Matt Stafford, Georgia
Cullen Harper, Clemson
Hunter Cantwell, Louisville
Curtis Painter, Purdue
Rudy Carpenter, Arizona State
Nathan Brown, Central Arkansas
Todd Boeckman, Ohio State


I am guessing Sanchez, like Allen Evridge, is not on there because he has so little game experience, and hasn't really been evaluated, so, sure, he could shoot to the top. Still, if he were really a candidate for the #1 overall pick, I would expect him to be rated above Rudy Carpenter.

Cullen Harper is right about where Matt Ryan was last year at this stage in the process.

[ISiddiqui]

I think it also depends on the team. The Falcons, for example, took Sam Baker as their LT this draft, so they likely wouldn't turn around an pick Oher or another LT. I guess they could move Baker to RT, but I find it unlikely.

[JPhillips]

Looks pretty thin for a #1 IMO.

[Schmidty]

Javon Ringer. Michigan State.

[Sun Tzu]

There is absolutely no possible way that Tim Tebow will go #1 overall.

[Lathum]

Mike Teel

[cartman]

Mike Teel

I guess we forgot to mention this is for the NFL, not CFL...

:D

[Schmidty]

Javon Ringer. Michigan State.

By the way, I know that won't happen, but I think he'll end up being one of the best players in the draft, retrospectively.

[st.cronin]

There is absolutely no possible way that Tim Tebow will go #1 overall.

quoted for posterity

[Lathum]

I guess we forgot to mention this is for the NFL, not CFL...

:D

ohhhh


well that changes everything?

do you need a psych evaluation for the CFL?

[Matthean]

There is absolutely no possible way that Tim Tebow will go #1 overall.

While he's not exactly the system QB that Spurrier kicked out, does Tim Tebow's playstyle fit in the NFL at all? I just don't see him as a legit starting NFL QB.

[Fidatelo]

do you need a psych evaluation for the CFL?

A psych evaluation? You don't even need to be alive!



CFL teams created laughable headlines when short-staffed scouting departments led teams to draft dead players in the 1995 amateur draft and the 1996 dispersal draft after the Las Vegas franchise folded. The Ottawa Rough Riders picked defensive end Darrel Robertson in the April 1995 amateur draft when the Las Vegas Posse folded. He died in a car crash the preceding December. A year later, the Montreal Alouettes drafted defensive James Eggink from the Northern Illinois University in the fifth round of the amateur draft, unaware that he succumbed to cancer a few months earlier.

[GrantDawg]

Last I heard, Jeff Owens from UGA is getting a injury red-shirt and will be back next year. I haven't heard that has changed, but then I doubt he'd be number one in the draft the year after he blew out his knee.

[ISiddiqui]

While he's not exactly the system QB that Spurrier kicked out, does Tim Tebow's playstyle fit in the NFL at all? I just don't see him as a legit starting NFL QB.

He probably could fit in a new hybrid style NFL offense, but with the problems NFL teams have had with Vick, Young, and worryingly Alex Smith (same system), they may be shyed away.

[Mr. Olympia]

OK, I'll bite. Why isn't Chase Daniel eligible for this poll?



The Senior QB from Missouri who is leading the Heisman race? Am I missing something here?

[JPhillips]

OK, I'll bite. Why isn't Chase Daniel eligible for this poll?



The Senior QB from Missouri who is leading the Heisman race? Am I missing something here?

He's 5' tall?

[Mr. Olympia]

He's 5' tall?
ESPN says 6' and 225lbs

[Logan]

I'll call it now...he'll follow the Drew Brees draft plan perfectly. Team who doesn't want to give $50 million to a QB goes elsewhere with the 1st pick, and grabs him with the first pick of Round 2.

[JPhillips]

ESPN says 6' and 225lbs

Obviously I was joking, but his height is the problem. I'd guess he's closer to 5'10" than 6' and short QBs don't have a great track record in the NFL.

[st.cronin]

bump

At this point I'm thinking the most likely names are:

QB Matt Stafford - Probably the best qb prospect among seniors and juniors.
WR Michael Crabtree - I think he is the most likely #1.
RB Knowshon Moreno - RBs probably don't have enough value in the NFL to warrant a #1 draft pick, but Moreno is pretty incredible.

OT Michael Oher
OT Andre Smith
OT Eugene Monroe

Oher is the most famous one, but when all the data is in he may not be the top ranked.

DE Brian Orakpo
DE Michael Johnson

Orakpo is more of a 3-4 rush LB; Johnson is more of a traditional DE.

[st.cronin]

mini-mock:

1. Detroit Lions - Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
2. Cincinnati - Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi
3. Kansas City - Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
4. St. Louis - Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia
5. Oakland - Taylor Mays, FS, USC
6. Seattle - Matt Stafford, QB, Georgia
7. San Francisco - Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas
8. Cleveland - Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia
9. Houston - Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State
10. New Orleans - Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech

[stevew]

couldn't resist?

lol

[Raiders Army]

Andre Smith or Michael Oher.
Ditto.
mini-mock:

1. Detroit Lions - Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
2. Cincinnati - Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi
3. Kansas City - Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
4. St. Louis - Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia
5. Oakland - Taylor Mays, FS, USC
6. Seattle - Matt Stafford, QB, Georgia
7. San Francisco - Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas
8. Cleveland - Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia
9. Houston - Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State
10. New Orleans - Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech

No effin way the Raiders pick anything but an offensive lineman. The tackles are absolutely horrid.

[rowech]

Can't see the Bengals taking anyone except Orakpo.

[QuikSand]

No effin way the Raiders pick anything but an offensive lineman. The tackles are absolutely horrid.

Good call. If there's a team that knows how to identify needs and respond to them logically, it's obviously the Raiders. What a dummy you'd have to be to predict that they might do something stupid here.

[Raiders Army]

Good call. If there's a team that knows how to identify needs and respond to them logically, it's obviously the Raiders. What a dummy you'd have to be to predict that they might do something stupid here.

Ouch. The truth hurts.

[Samdari]

Ditto.


No effin way the Raiders pick anything but an offensive lineman. The tackles are absolutely horrid.


Besides, if they do draft 5th, and the 3 elite tackles go in the first 4 picks (not unlikely unless a bunch of 3rd year sophomores declare) they'd be crazy to take the 4th OT. They could then get Crabtree there (the WRs are below NFL standards, if not horrid) and it would not be a bad pick. They could take one of the pass rushers there (the ends are horrid) or Vontae Davis (I hear there's an opening at CB) and they would not be bad picks.

I think teams who are not flexible when drafting and go in saying "we are drafting THIS position" (or THIS guy, as the Raiders did last year) usually end up not maximizing their draft picks.

[CU Tiger]

HAHAHA
Cullen Harper on this list
HAHA

Oh my what a long season it has been

[Sun Tzu]

Anybody else think it's hilarious that Detroit will most likely have the #1 pick, and are expected to take a Wideout?

[JPhillips]

Can't see the Bengals taking anyone except Orakpo.

No way Mike Brown throws a ton of money at a third DE. I wouldn't be surprised to see Crabtree as the pick if he's available.

[Samdari]

Anybody else think it's hilarious that Detroit will most likely have the #1 pick, and are expected to take a Wideout?

I don't think they're expected to take a wideout at all. I think they are expected to take a QB (assuming one of Stafford, Bradford or maybe even Sanchez declares).

[Butter]

No way Mike Brown throws a ton of money at a third DE. I wouldn't be surprised to see Crabtree as the pick if he's available.

Crabtree would definitely tempt the Bengals if available, but they need O-line help. BAD. I think st. cronin is not far off with his mini-mock. If the Bengals somehow end up with the #1, they might consider trading down a couple of spots if they could get a bunch of extra picks and still get an O-lineman in the top 10.

[Matthean]

Detroit doesn't need another high pick WR. IMO, you don't build teams that way. I'm still waiting for Stanton to get a credible shot at QB since he put up decent numbers in his only play time so far. Honestly, why take a QB when you know he's going to get killed, you just spent a 2nd rounder on a QB, and a QB isn't likely to be the best available at 1? Whatever the pick is, it's better than what you have. Might as well grab the best one, which so far looks to be at OT and good lord the Lions need help there. After that, defense, defense, defense. Some interior OL work needs to be done as well, ie center.

[DeToxRox]

I am not sure who I like more out of Smith or Oher. Smith is a physical freak, but so is Oher. Oher has a nasty streak though. I'd lean towards Oher, but be content with Smith.

[Logan]

I was surprised to see a couple sites that had Maclin listed as the #1 WR over Crabtree. I guess some questions about his straight-line speed and his ability to put up numbers in a more traditional system.

Sure as hell aren't my questions though.

[JPhillips]

Crabtree would definitely tempt the Bengals if available, but they need O-line help. BAD. I think st. cronin is not far off with his mini-mock. If the Bengals somehow end up with the #1, they might consider trading down a couple of spots if they could get a bunch of extra picks and still get an O-lineman in the top 10.

I agree from the outside, but I don't know if Mike Brown throws huge money at a tackle when the team will likely have Jones, Whitworth and Collins already. Brown has always been one to make a run for skill positions.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I really haven't paied too much attention to the draft. I try to avoid that until at least after all the bowl games have been played.

The Lions need help pretty much everywhere. I would be surprised, however, if they go offensive tackle with the first pick. They spent a first rounder of Cherlius last year to play RT and they still have Backus at LT. I don't think Backus is very good, but I think the Lions will believe that OT is one of the few positions that they actually have at least semi-decent NFL level talent and will try to address other areas.

I would think they would look at defensive end. Apparently there's that guy out of Georgia Tech, Michael Johnson, who is supposed to be pretty good. I have no idea what, if anything, he's done this year.

I really have clue on any of the others.

At this moment there doesn't seem to be that Overall Number One Can't Miss type guy. I'm sure that will change once the hype machines start kicking into high gear.

[Fidatelo]

I would probably make a terrible GM, but in my head your first round pick should almost always go to lineman, either offense or defense. I've always felt that if you can dominate the line of scrimmage, the rest of the team can get away with being a little less skilled.

[kcchief19]

I was surprised to see a couple sites that had Maclin listed as the #1 WR over Crabtree. I guess some questions about his straight-line speed and his ability to put up numbers in a more traditional system.

Sure as hell aren't my questions though.
Both players are products of their systems. I don't think there are any questions about his speed -- I think Maclin is faster than Crabtree. Maclin sprained his ankle early in the season and I think he is just now getting back to 100%. He ran for a TD Saturday from the Wildcat formation and he wasn't touched. Crabtree is taller and that's a huge plus. Maclin isn't the guy who is going to go out and get jump balls, he's a speed guy.

However, players from Tech and to a lesser extend Missouri are going to be dismissed as products of their systems until someone breaks through. I expect both to be drafted lower than expectations. I think you'd have to be crazy to draft either one No. 1.

[rowech]

I agree from the outside, but I don't know if Mike Brown throws huge money at a tackle when the team will likely have Jones, Whitworth and Collins already. Brown has always been one to make a run for skill positions.

Which is why you guys are probably right, I'm probably wrong, and why the Bengals suck.

[Subby]

Scouts Inc.'s Top 32


<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="1"><tbody><tr class="stathead"><td width="50%">Player</td> <td width="10%">Pos.</td> <td width="30%">School</td> <td width="10%">Grade</td> </tr> <tr class="oddrow" valign="top"> <td>1. Andre Smith*</td> <td>OT</td> <td>Alabama</td> <td>98</td> </tr> <tr class="evenrow" valign="top"> <td>2. Sam Bradford (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=188934)**</td> <td>QB</td> <td>Oklahoma</td> <td>98</td> </tr> <tr class="oddrow" valign="top"> <td>3. Vontae Davis*</td> <td>CB</td> <td>Illinois</td> <td>98</td> </tr> <tr class="evenrow" valign="top"> <td>4. Malcolm Jenkins (http://insider.espn.go.com/nfldraft/draft/tracker/player?draftyear=2009&id=23967)</td> <td>CB</td> <td>Ohio State</td> <td>97</td> </tr> <tr class="oddrow" valign="top"> <td>5. Matthew Stafford (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=183518)*</td> <td>QB</td> <td>Georgia</td> <td>97</td> </tr> <tr class="evenrow" valign="top"> <td>6. Michael Crabtree (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=184845)**</td> <td>WR</td> <td>Texas Tech</td> <td>96</td> </tr> <tr class="oddrow" valign="top"> <td>7. Eben Britton</td> <td>OT</td> <td>Arizona</td> <td>96</td> </tr> <tr class="evenrow" valign="top"> <td>8. Michael Johnson (http://insider.espn.go.com/nfldraft/draft/tracker/player?draftyear=2009&id=24514)</td> <td>DE</td> <td>Ga. Tech</td> <td>96</td> </tr> <tr class="oddrow" valign="top"> <td>9. Michael Oher (http://insider.espn.go.com/nfldraft/draft/tracker/player?draftyear=2009&id=23889)</td> <td>OT</td> <td>Mississippi</td> <td>95</td> </tr> <tr class="evenrow" valign="top"> <td>10. Brian Orakpo (http://insider.espn.go.com/nfldraft/draft/tracker/player?draftyear=2009&id=24064)</td> <td>DE</td> <td>Texas</td> <td>95</td> </tr> <tr class="oddrow" valign="top"> <td>11. Aaron Curry (http://insider.espn.go.com/nfldraft/draft/tracker/player?draftyear=2009&id=23926)</td> <td>OLB</td> <td>Wake Forest</td> <td>95</td> </tr> <tr class="evenrow" valign="top"> <td>12. Beanie Wells (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=183932)*</td> <td>RB</td> <td>Ohio State</td> <td>95</td> </tr> <tr class="oddrow" valign="top"> <td>13. Jeremy Maclin (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=191596)**</td> <td>WR</td> <td>Missouri</td> <td>94</td> </tr> <tr class="evenrow" valign="top"> <td>14. Terrence Cody*</td> <td>DT</td> <td>Alabama</td> <td>94</td> </tr> <tr class="oddrow" valign="top"> <td>15. Mark Sanchez (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=174154)*</td> <td>QB</td> <td>USC</td> <td>94</td> </tr> <tr class="evenrow" valign="top"> <td>16. Rey Maualuga (http://insider.espn.go.com/nfldraft/draft/tracker/player?id=23779&draftyear=2009)</td> <td>ILB</td> <td>USC</td> <td>94</td> </tr> <tr class="oddrow" valign="top"> <td>17. Russell Okung</td> <td>OT</td> <td>Okla. State</td> <td>93</td> </tr> <tr class="evenrow" valign="top"> <td>18. Sen'Derrick Marks*</td> <td>DT</td> <td>Auburn</td> <td>93</td> </tr> <tr class="oddrow" valign="top"> <td>19. James Laurinaitis (http://insider.espn.go.com/nfldraft/draft/tracker/player?draftyear=2009&id=23966)</td> <td>ILB</td> <td>Ohio State</td> <td>93</td> </tr> <tr class="evenrow" valign="top"> <td>20. Eugene Monroe (http://insider.espn.go.com/nfldraft/draft/tracker/player?draftyear=2009&id=24096)</td> <td>OT</td> <td>Virginia</td> <td>93</td> </tr> <tr class="oddrow" valign="top"> <td>21. Brian Cushing (http://insider.espn.go.com/nfldraft/draft/tracker/player?draftyear=2009&id=24453)</td> <td>OLB</td> <td>USC</td> <td>93</td> </tr> <tr class="evenrow" valign="top"> <td>22. Geno Atkins*</td> <td>DT</td> <td>Georgia</td> <td>92</td> </tr> <tr class="oddrow" valign="top"> <td>23. Knowshon Moreno (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=189614)**</td> <td>RB</td> <td>Georgia</td> <td>92</td> </tr> <tr class="evenrow" valign="top"> <td>24. Brandon Pettigrew (http://insider.espn.go.com/nfldraft/draft/tracker/player?draftyear=2009&id=23982)</td> <td>TE</td> <td>Okla. State</td> <td>92</td> </tr> <tr class="oddrow" valign="top"> <td>25. Greg Hardy*</td> <td>DE</td> <td>Mississippi</td> <td>92</td> </tr> <tr class="evenrow" valign="top"> <td>26. George Selvie*</td> <td>DE</td> <td>S. Florida</td> <td>91</td> </tr> <tr class="oddrow" valign="top"> <td>27. Percy Harvin (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=186580)**</td> <td>WR</td> <td>Florida</td> <td>91</td> </tr> <tr class="evenrow" valign="top"> <td>28. LeSean McCoy (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=235978)**</td> <td>RB</td> <td>Pittsburgh</td> <td>91</td> </tr> <tr class="oddrow" valign="top"> <td>29. Taylor Mays*</td> <td>S</td> <td>USC</td> <td>91</td> </tr> <tr class="evenrow" valign="top"> <td>30. Brandon Spikes*</td> <td>LB</td> <td>Florida</td> <td>91</td> </tr> <tr class="oddrow" valign="top"> <td>31. Alphonso Smith (http://insider.espn.go.com/nfldraft/draft/tracker/player?draftyear=2009&id=23927)</td> <td>CB</td> <td>Wake Forest</td> <td>91</td> </tr> <tr class="evenrow" valign="top"> <td>32. C.J. Spiller*</td> <td>RB</td> <td>Clemson</td> <td>90</td> </tr> <tr class="oddrow"> <td colspan="4">* denotes juniors; ** denotes third-year sophomore</td></tr></tbody></table>

[Logan]

Very off topic but looking at that list (as in #20, 21, and 23) really makes me mad about how much talent leaves New Jersey for other schools!

[DeToxRox]

Crabtree is no product of a system. His stats might be, but that kid can play on any team in the country. He's a big, physical reciever who reminds me of Anquan Boldin. He will run great routes, grab the ball and bull you over.

That said I love Maclin too. Kind of reminds me of Reggie Wayne. Not the biggest, but he is fast, has good hands and seems to run solid routes. Crabtree is the obvious #1, but Maclin is still a top 20 pick.

That said .. AJ Green and Julio Jones are the future. In two more seasons they'll probaby both be top 10 picks.

As far as the Lions, we need D, but we really need to solidify LT. Like I said, it's Oher or Smith. Put them opposite Goz and then draft a kid like Alex Mack or Duke Robinson with your other first or your second.

An ideal draft for me is #1 Oher and with the Cowboys pick, LB Brandon Spikes out of Florida. Spikes is probably best suited at SLB but wherever he plays, he will be a player.

[Honolulu_Blue]

As far as the Lions, we need D, but we really need to solidify LT. Like I said, it's Oher or Smith. Put them opposite Goz and then draft a kid like Alex Mack or Duke Robinson with your other first or your second.
.

What to the Lions do with Backus then? Cut him? Trade him? Start him over the #1 or #2 overall pick? Bench him? Move him to the right side and bench Cherlius?

[DeToxRox]

What to the Lions do with Backus then? Cut him? Trade him? Start him over the #1 or #2 overall pick? Bench him? Move him to the right side and bench Cherlius?

I think while they have the cap room this year you may as well send Backus packing. He might be able to move to OG, but who knows. You cannot pass on a stud LT though.

As far as DE Michael Johnson .. he potentially could be really good .. But if the Lions (God Willing) get a new head coach, the T2 could be obsolete which means we'll, you know, blitz, and not rely our entire pass rush on DE's. I'd rather go to a 3-4 and spend the bank on Haynesworth. Then I could justify a higher pick on a DE, but for now, I'd build the OL because of OL is still atrocious.

[DeToxRox]

And just so I don't go postal .. Malualga and Lauranitis I will pass on. Both have looked suspect this year considering the array of talent around them. Give me Spikes or Curry out of Wake over those two.

[stevew]

With 3 picks in the top 33, dare I say the LOLions are in good shape to rebuild on the fly?

[GrantDawg]

Stafford would fit well in Detroit.....as the next Joey Harrington.

[Matthean]

I would think they would look at defensive end. Apparently there's that guy out of Georgia Tech, Michael Johnson, who is supposed to be pretty good. I have no idea what, if anything, he's done this year.

The problem is that he's not exactly a guy you take at the 1.1 spot, and the 1.1 spot is hell to trade out of. They could easily take him at 1.5. The team going from 1.5 to 1.1 has to basically add in a 1.10 pick type amount of value to make the deal. You basically have to do multiple trade downs with likely earning less value on your trades just to position yourself to get the guy at the right value, but then he's not really at the right value since you traded some of that away. Worse case scenario for Detroit is getting the first pick since they can skip on the first couple of picks anyway.

IMO, Backus sucks, is 31 years old, has no backup in the works (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/teams/depth?team=det) and Gosder Cherilus can't seem to perform well enough to start on a team that has nothing to lose by starting it's rookies. Granted this team's ability to play people who should be starting isn't exactly the best either, ie Culpepper vs. Stanton. If Gosder could show enough promise as a starter then there is that outside chance he could eventually get switched to LT, which would take off some of the line burden, but as of right now I'm not seeing it.

[Honolulu_Blue]

With 3 picks in the top 33, dare I say the LOLions are in good shape to rebuild on the fly?

If you were talking about any other team other than the Lions, I would say "yes". But given it's the Lions, probably not. The absence of Millen restores some faith, but only very little at this point. It's been a dark, dark decade thus far.

[Matthean]

With 3 picks in the top 33, dare I say the LOLions are in good shape to rebuild on the fly?

And their GM is?

[DeToxRox]

The problem is that he's not exactly a guy you take at the 1.1 spot, and the 1.1 spot is hell to trade out of. They could easily take him at 1.5. The team going from 1.5 to 1.1 has to basically add in a 1.10 pick type amount of value to make the deal. You basically have to do multiple trade downs with likely earning less value on your trades just to position yourself to get the guy at the right value, but then he's not really at the right value since you traded some of that away. Worse case scenario for Detroit is getting the first pick since they can skip on the first couple of picks anyway.

IMO, Backus sucks, is 31 years old, has no backup in the works (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/teams/depth?team=det) and Gosder Cherilus can't seem to perform well enough to start on a team that has nothing to lose by starting it's rookies. Granted this team's ability to play people who should be starting isn't exactly the best either, ie Culpepper vs. Stanton. If Gosder could show enough promise as a starter then there is that outside chance he could eventually get switched to LT, which would take off some of the line burden, but as of right now I'm not seeing it.

Goz has looked solid as hell the last few weeks. Beyond the penalties, he has been really good. I've been lucky to see some streams of the last couple home games, and he hasn't been bad at all considering the flux he is in. I am not ready to annoint him a pro bowler, but I do think they got it right with that pick.

[allpro10050]

And their GM is?

martin mayhew

[Matthean]

Haven't been watching because in all honesty it's just difficult to watch a team perform that poorly on a weekly basis at this point. I know he was starting and then got moved to back up and ESPN still list him as such. I continue to shake my head at the total lack of ability to run a team that this coaching staff has. There is no excuse for people like Goz and Stanton to not be getting significant playing time at this point.

[Honolulu_Blue]

The problem is that he's not exactly a guy you take at the 1.1 spot, and the 1.1 spot is hell to trade out of. They could easily take him at 1.5. The team going from 1.5 to 1.1 has to basically add in a 1.10 pick type amount of value to make the deal. You basically have to do multiple trade downs with likely earning less value on your trades just to position yourself to get the guy at the right value, but then he's not really at the right value since you traded some of that away. Worse case scenario for Detroit is getting the first pick since they can skip on the first couple of picks anyway.

That does seem to be the problem. The top prospects appear to be OT. They have a need there, but they invested in that position with their first pick last year and still have Backus.

Unless someone blows everyone away at the combine or something, the Lions will be in a fix. Who would want to trade up with them and spend all of that money and give up extra picks? It's super early now, but at this time I just don't see there being a player out there that any one team would covet so much that they would be willing to make such a deal.


IMO, Backus sucks, is 31 years old, has no backup in the works (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/teams/depth?team=det) and Gosder Cherilus can't seem to perform well enough to start on a team that has nothing to lose by starting it's rookies. Granted this team's ability to play people who should be starting isn't exactly the best either, ie Culpepper vs. Stanton. If Gosder could be show enough promise as a starter then there is that outside chance he could eventually get switched to LT, which would take off some of the line burden, but as of right now I'm not seeing it.

I don't think Backus is all that good either, but they are paying him a ton of money. I don't think the Lions can afford to sit the #1 or #2 pick overall and I don't know if the Lions can afford to cut one of the few semi-decent players (Backus) on the team. It's possible they will, but that's just creating yet another hole in a team full of holes.

I don't think Backus has much, if any, trade value either.

I don't there's much chance of Gosder switching to LT. He struggled in that position during his senior year at BC. It's either RT or guard for him. More likely the former than the latter. He's been a bit better these last few weeks, but that bar is very, very low.

The Lions definitely need to address the offensive line and pretty much the entire defense with this draft and in free agency.

They also may need to address the QB situation, unless they feel that the Culpepper/Stanton duo is good enough to carry them next year.

[stevew]

I didn't really think anyone thought Gosder would be a good pro LT. But a lot thought he had the skill set to be a brutal run blocker at RT, aka the type of road grater you can build a fearsome running attack behind. But maybe that was just me.

[Matthean]

martin mayhew

Well good, now I can sleep better at night knowing they have a top flight GM. ;) Yes, I know who it is, but he has a minimal track record so far and may not even be the guy GMing the Lions draft. Pulling off the trade with Dallas was awesome, but bringing in Culpepper brought pretty much nothing to the table.

[DeToxRox]

I didn't really think anyone thought Gosder would be a good pro LT. But a lot thought he had the skill set to be a brutal run blocker at RT, aka the type of road grater you can build a fearsome running attack behind. But maybe that was just me.

Exactly.

[st.cronin]

What about Moreno for the Lions? I think he's a better prospect than either Peterson (who had injury concerns) or McFadden.

[DeToxRox]

What about Moreno for the Lions? I think he's a better prospect than either Peterson (who had injury concerns) or McFadden.

Kevin Smith is the RB of the future .. at least for now. He looks good in spurts, but with how awful our OL is and how early/often we're behind, we never get to see what he can do.

Honestly, if we don't go OT with the first pick I'll be shocked. The only way we might not is if we hire a guy who hasn't been a GM before and wants to make a pick to stamp himself as GM, in which case it'd be a QB.

God help us.

[DeToxRox]

What about Moreno for the Lions? I think he's a better prospect than either Peterson (who had injury concerns) or McFadden.

Dola .. imo McCoy is the best RB prospect in the draft if he comes out. He plays and looks like an NFL RB.

[Matthean]

What about Moreno for the Lions? I think he's a better prospect than either Peterson (who had injury concerns) or McFadden.

He would have to be at best the pick they get from Dallas, and even at that point I'm not sure how much he helps them. Outside of how bad that D is, the line really does suck, so no RB is going to get much out of it. They already are starting a rookie at RB and went and got Rudi.

[Sun Tzu]

So I guess Colt McCoy and Graham Harrel are both waiting until next year to declare themselves eligible for the draft?

[DeToxRox]

So I guess Colt McCoy and Graham Harrel are both waiting until next year to declare themselves eligible for the draft?

McCoy said he was going to stay. Not sure on Harrell.

[st.cronin]

Harrell is a senior, I think.

[Sun Tzu]

Just checked, Harrell is a Sr. I don't know that he'd be worth the top overall spot, but I'd pick him up in the mid-late rounds and see if he can develop into something special. Not every single "system quarterback" in college is going to turn into Alex Smith.

[GrantDawg]

Just checked, Harrell is a Sr. I don't know that he'd be worth the top overall spot, but I'd pick him up in the mid-late rounds and see if he can develop into something special. Not every single "system quarterback" in college is going to turn into Alex Smith.


True. And every 6'6 QB with a rocket arm is not going to be the next John Elway. There is more to it than just size and arm strength (though both help).

[Samdari]

The top prospects appear to be OT. They have a need there, but they invested in that position with their first pick last year and still have Backus.

I don't think Backus is all that good either, but they are paying him a ton of money.

I don't think Backus has much, if any, trade value either.

This does not make sense. Someone "who is not that good" or "has no trade value" is not someone who keeps you from drafting a player at his position. If the best player in this draft is an LT, they would be best served taking him. Backus' contract probably has a high salary at this point, so he'd be considered for a cap cut anyway.

I am baffled at them not playing Stanton right now though. They should find out if they have anything there before making that #1 pick.

[VPI97]

Dola .. imo McCoy is the best RB prospect in the draft if he comes out. He plays and looks like an NFL RB.
+1

[Honolulu_Blue]

This does not make sense. Someone "who is not that good" or "has no trade value" is not someone who keeps you from drafting a player at his position. If the best player in this draft is an LT, they would be best served taking him. Backus' contract probably has a high salary at this point, so he'd be considered for a cap cut anyway.

In isolation, no, it doesn't make sense. When you look at the rest of the Lions' roster it sort of does make sense for all the reasons I state above. To sum up: Given all the giant, gaping holes the Lions have all over the field, improving the LT position is really more of a luxury than a need.

Should they look at getting help there? Most definitely. Will it be in the form of the first or second pick overall? I dobut it.

Also, what we think of Jeff Backus isn't necessarily what the Lions think of Jeff Backus. He and Railoa are considered the cornerstones of the offensive line. A very, very bad offensive line.


I am baffled at them not playing Stanton right now though. They should find out if they have anything there before making that #1 pick.

http://blueprint.freedomblogging.com/files/2007/11/welcome-to-the-party-pal.jpg

[st.cronin]

Here's my first mock draft, based on the projected standings done at football frontier:


1. Detroit (0-16) - Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
2. Seattle (2-14) - Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
3. Kansas City (2-14) - Matt Stafford, QB, Georgia
4. Cincinnati (2-13-1) - Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest
5. Oakland (3-13) - Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi
6. St. Louis (4-12) - Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State
7. Jacksonville (4-12) - James Laurinaitis, LB, Ohio State
8. San Francisco (5-11) - Brian Orakpo, DE/OLB, Texas
9. Cleveland (5-11) - Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia
10. San Diego (6-10) - Taylor Mays, FS, USC
11. Buffalo (7-9) - Michael Johnson, DE/OLB, Georgia Tech
12. Green Bay (7-9) - Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia
13. Houston (7-9) - William Moore, FS, Missouri
14. New Orleans (8-8) - Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois
15. Detroit (from Dallas [8-8]) - Brian Cushing, OLB, USC
16. Arizona (9-7) - Chris Wells, RB, Ohio State
17. Philadelphia (9-6-1) - SenDerrick Marks, DT, Auburn
18. Miami (10-6) - Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC
19. New England (10-6) - Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida
20. Atlanta (10-6) - Terrence Cody, DT, Alabama
21. Chicago (10-6) - Greg Hardy, DE, Mississippi
22. Denver (10-6) - Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland
23. Washington (10-6) - George Selvie, DE, South Florida
24. Minnesota (10-6) - Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest
25. New York Jets (11-5) - Myron Rolle, SS, Florida State
26. Tampa Bay (11-5) - Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri
27. Indianapolis (11-5) - Peria Jerry, DT, Mississippi
28. Pittsburgh (11-5) - Jason Smith, OT, Baylor
29. Baltimore (12-4) - Darius Butler, CB, Connecticut
30. Philadelphia (from Carolina [12-4]) - Javon Ringer, RB, Michigan State
31. New York Giants (14-2) - Sean Weatherspoon, OLB, Missouri
32. Tennessee (15-1) - Alex Mack, C, California

I expect to go 0 for 32 with these picks. There is no consensus yet as to who is the top OT. I have not watched Eugene Monroe at all this year, but I think of Smith and Oher I like Smith a little bit more. At this point I think he's the most likely to go #1.

I believe Detroit will go either OT, DE, or QB with the first pick. That means either Andre Smith, Michael Oher, Eugene Monroe, Brian Orakpo, or Matt Stafford.

If Sam Bradford comes out he will almost certainly be a 1st round pick. Colt McCoy has said he will not come out, and I don't think Sanchez or Tebow will, either - those guys probably wouldn't be 1st round picks, anyway, although Tebow might.

[JPhillips]

I'd be shocked if Mike Brown passed up Crabtree, Wells, Moreno, Oher, and Monre to pick a LB. Brown loves offense and with the struggles this year I can't imagine them picking defense if they have a top five pick.

[Neuqua]

Larry English eats people.

[Galaxy]

Isn't Crabtree staying at Tech for another year?

[st.cronin]

Isn't Crabtree staying at Tech for another year?

Doubtful, no matter what he says. His draft position will only get worse, and he'll be breaking in a new QB next year.

[Apathetic Lurker]

Lions is what the Lions is: Mike Stafford with 1st..

[Thomkal]

love your mock drafts Cronin, even when I disagree with them. :) Wow that would be wild if Arizona picks #16 after winning the West. They really need to change that to all playoff teams picking after the non-playoff teams.

You'll remember I called for the Cardinals to draft a RB in the first round last year in your mock drafts, and the need is even more apparent and desperate now. Not sure I want Wells with his injury history though.

I think Detroit, like Atlanta last year has to go QB with their pick. They likely will have a new coach and unless that coach likes Stanton or the other guy whose name I can't spell (sorry Culpepper but you aren't the answer), I think the coach will want a QB he likes for his system. Will Kitna be back with them next season? I suppose that might influence who they pick.

KC is also in an interesting position. Many people are calling for my boy Thigpen to be the starter next season including Tony Gonzales. Current thinking amongst many Chiefs fans is that they don't need to draft a QB in the first round thanks to Thigpen's presence. I think that's crazy and I'm a Thigpen fan. I think the Chiefs have to go QB if there's an elite franchise QB there at their spot, cause Thigpen is unlikely to ever be that.

How about St. Louis going for a QB with their pick? Do they have any young guys on their roster? I don't think Bulger/Green are going to be around much longer.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I think Detroit, like Atlanta last year has to go QB with their pick. They likely will have a new coach and unless that coach likes Stanton or the other guy whose name I can't spell (sorry Culpepper but you aren't the answer), I think the coach will want a QB he likes for his system.

Orlovsky.

Will Kitna be back with them next season?

No.

[Thomkal]

thanks for the spelling HB, I would have slaughtered it :)

[miked]

Need to see Kenny Britt in the 1st round :)

[johnnyshaka]

I don't think the Eagles take a DT in the first seeing as they already have two recent first rounders (Patterson and Bunkley) starting and their first pick last season (Laws) rotates in.

O-Line has to be the focus with the first pick and then I think RB depth...therefore like the Ringer pick. But I think TE is another area they may look to upgrade and Gresham looks like he's the top TE with both great size and speed.

[JPhillips]

I imagine the Eagles will end up with Stacy Andrews at tackle next year as he won't sign with Cincy and has said many times he'd like to play with his brother.

[Travis]

If he's there when they pick, I really can't imagine Seattle passes on Crabtree. I'm hoping they're picking a bit further down after a couple of late season wins (ideally 5th or 6th) and while this may cost them Crabtree, at least it would get them out of the ridiculous rookie contract picks (well maybe not entirely, but I do hope they're not picking top 3).

[Logan]

Need to see Kenny Britt in the 1st round :)

I think there's a chance he could run a flat 4.4, and if he does that and Crabtree times as slow as he is expected...allow me to predict him as the first WR taken.

[miked]

That would be cool, but I didn't think he was THAT fast. Funny, during the UL game, the ESPN people kept talking about how Kenny Britt needs to come back for his senior year because he's not a burner and could use some extra weight. I was thinking, sure, he's leading the country in receiving, there might be teams throwing around money this offseason because of the cap situation, and he'll likely have a QB throwing to him that hasn't played a college game. Sure he'll come back to add 10 pounds and hone his route running.

[Logan]

He ran a laser-timed 4.5 coming out of HS, and he sure can pull away from DBs. I think his size makes him look slower than he really is. We'll see.

[Sun Tzu]

At best the Niners will pick 10th/11th. There's no way they're going to lose all three of their remaining games, especially considering one of them is against the Rams. 8-8 is possible, 7-9 is likely, 6-10 is unlikely, 5-11 is extremely unlikely.

[RendeR]

There is absolutely no possible way that Tim Tebow will go #1 overall.

Honestly, knowing how awful the Lions O-line really is I could see them going with Tebow. he can take a pounding and still play well. he's huge and can run whenever necessary. He's not the most accurate guy but he's shown flashes of geting better there this season.

By the way, I know that won't happen, but I think he'll end up being one of the best players in the draft, retrospectively.

I really love the way Ringer Runs.

No way Mike Brown throws a ton of money at a third DE. I wouldn't be surprised to see Crabtree as the pick if he's available.

I don't see the bengals taking a WR number 1, first off he may well not be there when they pick as other teams ahead of them have bigger needs at wideout and secondly with that injury he's gonna drop in many pepole's draft lists. 3rd and probably most importantly, the Bengals have a couple of young guns at WR who look like they may well step up and be able to fill the shoes of housh and Chad. I hope to god they trade Chad and resign Housh. I want TJ to teach the young guys his work ethic and determination.

I agree from the outside, but I don't know if Mike Brown throws huge money at a tackle when the team will likely have Jones, Whitworth and Collins already. Brown has always been one to make a run for skill positions.

This is where I'm perplexed. I like Collins attitude, we need that kind of firey play on the line. I'm just worried that Levi is a flop, having been given the chance to take over at LT he's really dropped the ball and also had injury issues. I'd really like to see them take a tackle with the first pick, but knowing Brown, I half expect him to take Beanie Wells or Ringer and subject yet another great RB prospect to the Bengals curse.

I'd be shocked if Mike Brown passed up Crabtree, Wells, Moreno, Oher, and Monre to pick a LB. Brown loves offense and with the struggles this year I can't imagine them picking defense if they have a top five pick.

I agree here, I don't expect them to take another LB. Without the injuries we had this season our defense would be playing even stronger than they are. People seem to be ignoring the total lack of offense this team has. Our defense, given even a middle of the pack offensive play, would be in the top 12-16 in the league. They're just getting no support and they're beat to hell.

I imagine the Eagles will end up with Stacy Andrews at tackle next year as he won't sign with Cincy and has said many times he'd like to play with his brother.

like Andrews, he's a beast of a man and he's got amazing athletic talent, unfortunately I just don't think he's as good as everyone says he is. he gets beat regularly and badly by middlen D-lineman. I won;t be that upset if we lose him.


I wish there was a real monster of a DT or DE out there, but I don't see that type of guy in the mock drafts I've looked at. We really do need a pass rush. Even a slitghly better one would create a lot more opportunities for the defense to make big plays.

I desperately wish Brown would hire a real GM and stay the hell out of things. He's not a footbal talent guru like his father was. And as a Bengals.com article described him "he's hardheaded and stuck in his ways...he's a lawyer..." He needs to write checks and shut the hell up about the rest of it.

[st.cronin]

Kenny Britt is good, and is definitely a plausible first rounder. Last year WR was a very tough position to predict who would get picked when. Remember Donnie Avery?

Wells vs. Moreno ... I think Moreno is better, but Wells is likely to show a very sexy size/speed combo at the combine. Moreno is, I think, a little on the small side, and may slip down the board a bit.

I believe if Crabtree is available Cincinnati would take him. Big picture, though, it seems they have more holes to fill on defense than on offense, and the top of this draft is thin on playmakers. There's Crabtree, maybe Moreno, and that's pretty much it.

I'm getting closer and closer to thinking Orakpo will be the #1 pick. There are just a ton of offensive tackles that look like good prospects in this draft, and if you're the Lions and you want an OT, you can get one with your second pick like Eben Britton or Ciron Black who are almost at the level of Smith/Oher. Orakpo has been insanely good this year, and the Lions, like the Bengals, seem to have a lot more holes on defense than offense.

Fwiw: I didn't think Ryan was much of a prospect, so clearly I'm an idiot, but I like Stafford LESS than I liked Ryan. He has made some progress since he was a freshman, but I still find it extremely difficult to imagine some team investing the first overall pick in him.

[miked]

Orapko was my vote, and I see somebody finally joined me, making it 2 people.

[Cuckoo]

Orakpo is a beast. I hate Texas with every fiber of my being, but I'd have him on my short list for 1 overall.

[DeToxRox]

No chance Detroit goes DE #1.

Assuming the current regime stays in place, which is 75% likely, it's almost certain Stafford goes #1.

The only way they take Orakpo #1 is if he is like Jake Long last year and agrees to take less money then others at #1, which is possible.

All things equal, as much as I hate it, Stafford will be a Lion.

[Samdari]

K I didn't think Ryan was much of a prospect, so clearly I'm an idiot, but I like Stafford LESS than I liked Ryan.

Then they'd clearly be crazy NOT to take him, yes?

[st.cronin]

Update after the last week's games:

1. Detroit (0-16) - Matt Stafford, QB, Georgia ... I guess I've come around to this. Stafford really did have a tremendous statistical season, he's a great athlete, etc.
2. St. Louis (2-14) - Andre Smith, OT, Alabama ... Smith is really interesting to watch. He's very athletic and strong, but also incredibly aggressive. He's the rare offensive lineman that you can't take your eyes off of when watching the game.
3. Kansas City (2-14) - Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi ... Last year's lottery pick went to rebuild the defensive line, this year's will likely go to the offensive line. A QB is also possible, although I think Thigpen has been quite good.
4. Seattle (3-13) - Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech ... Crabtree has said he'll stay at TT next year, but I'm doubtful.
5. Oakland (3-13) - Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas ... Orakpo would probably be a reach at #1. He's been terrific this year, but he's not quite ideal size for a DE, and he has some history of injuries.
6. Cincinnati (3-12-1) - Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia ... Bungles have lots of holes on defense, but they'll take an elite RB if one's available.
7. Jacksonville (5-11) - Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest ... Curry has tremendous talent and has been very productive in college, winning the Dick Butkus Award this year. Could play any LB spot in a 4-3 scheme.
8. Cleveland (5-11) - Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State ... Jenkins could go higher than this. He's a big, athletic, fast corner who may give scouts major wood at the combine.
9. San Francisco (6-10) - Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia ... UVA continues to pump out elite O-line prospects. When Monroe was a junior and Branden Albert a senior, Monroe played LT and Albert played guard. Albert is now playing LT in the NFL, so Monroe is probably at least as good a prospect as Albert.
10. San Diego (6-10) - Taylor Mays, FS, USC ... The best player on the best college defense this season, and one of the best of all time. Mays is an impressive size/speed combo, and could probably play SS or even CB as well.
11. Green Bay (6-10) - James Laurinaitis, LB, Ohio State ... If the Pack pick Laurinaitis, presumably Hawk would move to weakside LB. Green Bay has a reputation of picking best available player regardless of need.
12. Buffalo (7-9) - Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech ... Johnson is still a darkhorse for #1 pick overall. He's got prototypical size for a DE, and was very productive for a very good Georgia Tech team this last year. With a good bowl game and a good combine, he could convince Detroit to go the Mario Williams route.
13. New Orleans (8-8) - William Moore, SS/FS, Missouri ... the next Roy Williams? He's probably better than that.
14. Houston (8-8) - Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois ... Had a bit of a shaky senior season, but still big and fast, projecting as the perfect cover corner.
15. Washington (9-7) - SenDerrick Marks, DT, Auburn ... May project as a DE, but a talented lineman nonetheless.
16. Detroit (from Dallas [9-7]) - Brian Cushing, LB, USC
17. Arizona (9-7) - Chris Wells, RB, Ohio State ... Wells could well be the 1st RB taken.
18. Philadelphia (9-6-1) - Greg Hardy, DE, Mississippi
19. Miami (10-6) - Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC ... This draft is very deep in LBs.
20. New England (10-6) - Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida
21. Chicago (10-6) - Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland
22. Denver (10-6) - Terrence Cody, DT, Alabama ... Cody is an elephant.
23. Atlanta (10-6) - Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest
24. NY Jets (11-5) - Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma ... Assuming Bradford leaves college, this is about as far as he's likely to slip.
25. Tampa Bay (11-5) - George Selvie, DE, South Florida
26. Indianapolis (11-5) - Peria Jerry, DT, Mississippi
27. Baltimore (11-5) - Myron Rolle, SS, Florida State ... Smart fella, from what I gather.
28. Minnesota (11-5) - Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State
29. Philadelphia (from Carolina [12-4]) - Darius Butler, CB, Connecticut
30. Pittsburgh (12-4) - Jason Smith, OT, Baylor
31. NY Giants (12-4) - Sean Weatherspoon, OLB, Missouri
32. Tennessee (14-2) - Alex Mack, C, California

[RendeR]

I believe if Crabtree is available Cincinnati would take him. Big picture, though, it seems they have more holes to fill on defense than on offense, and the top of this draft is thin on playmakers. There's Crabtree, maybe Moreno, and that's pretty much it.




This will not happen. Seriously, you're not looking at what they have and what they need here.

The Bengals have 2 young guys that have the skills to be #1/2 recievers waiting in the wings to see what they do with Ocho-noshow and Housh-MAN-zadeh.

The Defense actually has one glaring need, pass rush, we don't have any.
The linebackers (when healthy) and the secondary (when healthy) are actually very strong units.

The Offense has 4 major needs.
O-line, we need a stud Tackle, wether he plays right side or Left, we just need one badly. If there is a super Tackle available, I'll wager my salary that they take him, if there isn't one, or there is a Guard comparable they'll take that player and move one of their other Gaurds to tackle/center. We also need a stud Center but there isn't one in this draft.

Running back. We have benson who is playing his heart out, but Perry is a bust (much to my disgust as I put faith in a Mishitgin product) and beyond those two we have exactly squat. IF one of the studs is available, they might go this way but their history with first round RB's is terrible and tney may avoid this pick.

Fullback. We have a guy thats smaller than our RB's tryin to block for them. He can't catch either. God I miss Lorenzo Neal.

Tight End. Utecht is a great TE, but he's aging and he gets hurt far too often. We have enough guys on IR this season, we need a gigantic bulldozer with good hands to give Carson a check down he can trust.

They will not take Crabtree, they don't need Crabtree.

[RendeR]

DOLA, guess I should read further before posting, been a long day.

I'm not sold on moreno, but I also haven't really seen much of him. Anyone got some video clips I can watch of him?

[Ronnie Dobbs2]

YouTube - knowshon moreno (http://www.youtube.com/results?orig_query=knowshawn+moreno&search_query=knowshon+moreno&orig_query_src=2)

[st.cronin]

Moreno is awesome. He's a little bit smaller than McFadden and McPherson, the last two elite RBs, but I think he's going to be great in the NFL. He has put up fantastic numbers in the SEC playing behind a bad offensive line.

[st.cronin]

I think I have the draft order correct, and I am predicting Carolina over Tennessee in the Super Bowl. Here is my updated mock draft:

1. Detroit (0-16) - Matt Stafford, QB, Georgia - I've changed my mind on him, and I now think he is a very good prospect. He did not play well as a freshman, but he improved quite a bit in his college career. Very similar to JaMarcus Russell, but is probably a better prospect.
2. St. Louis (2-14) - Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma - If he gets the idea he could be drafted this high, he will surely declare for the draft. St. Louis has other holes, but I don't think they'll pass up a top QB prospect.
3. Kansas City (2-14) - Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas - I go back and forth on Orakpo. He is tremendous, but I am not sure how well he projects to the NFL.
4. Seattle (4-12) - Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
5. Cleveland (4-12) - Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest - Curry is getting a lot of love from scouts these days (Kiper has him #1 on his big board, for example). We'll see if that holds up throughout the combine, etc.
6. Cincinnati (4-11-1) - Beanie Wells, RB, Ohio State - I've swapped Wells and Moreno on my personal big board, thinking that Wells superior size and speed trumps Moreno's production and durability. Its a close call, though.
7. Oakland (5-11) - Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia - Monroe is also rising in my estimation.
8. Jacksonville (5-11) - Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
9. Green Bay (6-10) - Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State
10. San Francisco (7-9) - Taylor Mays, S, USC
11. Buffalo (7-9) - Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech
12. Denver (8-8) - James Laurinaitis, LB, Ohio State
13. New Orleans (8-8) - Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi - Saints have other needs but would be delighted with a top LT prospect.
14. Washington (8-8) - SenDerrick Marks, DT, Auburn
15. Houston (8-8) - William Moore, SS, Missouri
16. NY Jets (9-7) - Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia
17. Chicago (9-7) - Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland
18. Tampa Bay (9-7) - B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College
19. Detroit [from Dallas (9-7)] - Brian Cushing, OLB, USC
20. New England (11-5) - Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois
21. San Diego (8-8) - Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC
22. Philadelphia (9-6-1) - Jason Smith, OT, Baylor
23. Arizona (9-7) - Greg Hardy, DE, Mississippi
24. Minnesota (10-6) - Max Unger, C, Oregon
25. Atlanta (11-5) - Peria Jerry, DT, Mississippi
26. Miami (11-5) - Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida
27. Baltimore (11-5) - Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest
28. NY Giants (12-4) - Kenny Britt, WR, Rutgers
29. Pittsburgh (12-4) - Alex Mack, C, California
30. Indianapolis (12-4) - Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma
31. Tennessee (13-3) - Fili Moala, DT, USC
32. Philadelphia [from Carolina (12-4)] - Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma

[Travis]

I really hope you're wrong (re: Seattle). If they don't go WR (Crabtree) with their pick I'm hoping they do a minor trade down or just stay put and take a safety (likely Mays). They do need at least one more lineman, likely a center but they should be pretty set at tackle (supposed plan is for Locklear to slide to LT when Jones retires and they've got a few pretty good looking potential replacements for RT). A lot of that will depend on whether Solari returns (I hope so) and his evaluations of the current crop, but wow do the Hawks ever needs a receiver with truly elite potential and an upgrade to Brian Russell in the secondary.

[st.cronin]

They may go with Crabtree if he's available. My thinking is that Smith is an A+ prospect at OT, and Crabtree is an A prospet at WR, and that OT is a bigger impact position than WR, trumping the need element.

[sooner333]

How come you don't have the Lions taking Crabtree?

[Eaglesfan27]

I like this mock draft much more than your previous ones for the Eagles' pick. I don't see them going DT but OT is a definite need.

[kcchief19]

I really don't get the love affair people have with Stafford. His numbers are pedestrian and he hasn't blazed a trail though big games. In fact, Georgia lost most of their big games. Granted it's a weak senior QB class but there's no reason to spend a No. 1 draft pick on a second tier prospect.

That said, I really hope Stafford and Bradford both come out and the Lions take Stafford. I don't think the Rams will make QB a priority this year, which would leave Bradford available at No. 3.

[Schmidty]

If the Lions take a QB, especially Stafford, with the 1st pick - I'll vomit.

[Matthean]

I really don't get the love affair people have with Stafford. His numbers are pedestrian and he hasn't blazed a trail though big games. In fact, George lost most of their big games. Granted it's a weak senior QB class but there's no reason to spend a No. 1 draft pick on a second tier prospect.

This.

If the Lions take a QB, especially Stafford, with the 1st pick - I'll vomit.

And pretty much this. In a deep draft, there is no way Stafford is the number one overall. Outside of OL, the only positions the Lions should be drafting for at least the first 3 rounds is defense. When you give up 50+ points more than anybody else and you have one of the top WRs for TDs, a QB so isn't your top need.

[JPhillips]

Watch what the Bengals do with Benson. If they sign him I'd be very surprised if they took a RB. They need OL, but Crabtree would be hard for Brown to resist. Honestly I don't think there are any top players at need positions for the Bengals and I'd rather they trade down if possible. They could drop ten picks and end up with a starting ILB, C, and G in the first two rounds.

[Northwood_DK]

I really don't get the love affair people have with Stafford. His numbers are pedestrian and he hasn't blazed a trail though big games. In fact, George lost most of their big games. Granted it's a weak senior QB class but there's no reason to spend a No. 1 draft pick on a second tier prospect.

That said, I really hope Stafford and Bradford both come out and the Lions take Stafford. I don't think the Rams will make QB a priority this year, which would leave Bradford available at No. 3.

I was under the impression that Tyler Thigpen was the future in Kansas City and they could use that 3rd overall pick a lot smarter.

[Lathum]

Despite the Plaxico nonsense I just dont see the Giants taking a WR in the first round. They have taken Manningham and Smith early the last 2 years and Tyree was on IR all season and will be back.

As much as I would love seeing them take Britt as a huge RU fan, I see them taking an O-lineman. They are gonna have to beef up there because without knowing the contract situations, I cant see them keeping all those guys together.

Ward will also likely be gone as a free agent, so I can see them going RB if the right one is available.

[Logan]

Seems like the Lions would get the most value out of taking a QB #1 and grabbing (at least) one of the top remaining OLs with either that second 1st or the top pick of the 2nd.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I was under the impression that Tyler Thigpen was the future in Kansas City and they could use that 3rd overall pick a lot smarter.

Uh, no. Thigpen has done well early in the game, but has choked time and time again as the game progresses into the 4th quarter. They provided a pretty telling statistic yesterday in the telecast that demonstrated it. In the first quarter, Thigpen has a rating of roughly 107. Each quarter, his rating drops. In the 4th quarter, his rating was 55. As a fan who's found enough time to watch every Chiefs game this year, I can verify that the stat is extremely accurate. He's a good change of pace and a backup, but he's not the answer if we want to make the playoffs.

[Honolulu Blue]

1. Detroit (0-16) - Matt Stafford, QB, Georgia - I've changed my mind on him, and I now think he is a very good prospect. He did not play well as a freshman, but he improved quite a bit in his college career. Very similar to JaMarcus Russell, but is probably a better prospect.

I don't know much about Mr. Stafford, but I've never been a fan of JaMarcus Russell. In FOF terms, he's a 12/90 guy that really needs a mentor and good organizational support. Things he doesn't have in Oakland.

Anyway, the Lions really have more pressing needs than QB, as mentioned here. They really should trade down.

[Mustang]

Even with an aging Harris and Woodson, I don't see the Packers taking a CB there... they have line issues both offensive and defensive so my $ would be on a OT at that spot, followed by a DE. Although, I think Jenkins will go a few spots higher anyways. I also wouldn't be surprised if the Packers hire a new defensive coordinator and go to a 3-4 and pick Maualuga.

[Thomkal]

Now that the Cards have dropped to 23, I think they will take the best player available at their need positions-RB, DE, or LB. So Hardy or another qualty pass rusher DE wouldn't surprise me. But not withstanding Edge's 100 yard game yesterday, they badly need a top RB.

[Thomkal]

Uh, no. Thigpen has done well early in the game, but has choked time and time again as the game progresses into the 4th quarter. They provided a pretty telling statistic yesterday in the telecast that demonstrated it. In the first quarter, Thigpen has a rating of roughly 107. Each quarter, his rating drops. In the 4th quarter, his rating was 55. As a fan who's found enough time to watch every Chiefs game this year, I can verify that the stat is extremely accurate. He's a good change of pace and a backup, but he's not the answer if we want to make the playoffs.

I think with Thigpen it depends on if Herm Edwards stays or goes. Edwards seems to like him and the team rallied around him, especially their best player Tony Gonzales. But that said, yesterday's game with the Bengals probably put the last nail in the coffin for him starting with any other coach. But given the huge amount of QB injuries he likely will get the chance to play some no matter what next season. It was just a big thrill to get to see him perform on the big stage after watching him here at Coastal Carolina. So depending on the coach, if Bradford or Stafford is there, I think they go QB. Otherwise something on the defensive side.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I think with Thigpen it depends on if Herm Edwards stays or goes. Edwards seems to like him and the team rallied around him, especially their best player Tony Gonzales. But that said, yesterday's game with the Bengals probably put the last nail in the coffin for him starting with any other coach. But given the huge amount of QB injuries he likely will get the chance to play some no matter what next season. It was just a big thrill to get to see him perform on the big stage after watching him here at Coastal Carolina. So depending on the coach, if Bradford or Stafford is there, I think they go QB. Otherwise something on the defensive side.

General opinion around KC amongst fans and media at this point is that Edwards is gone. I can't envision a GM candidate that would keep him.

I see the Chiefs keeping Thigpen as a backup and using free agency for a QB (over 20M already available in cap room with 30M being likely after releases and LJ trade). Defense is the likely pick including a possible trade-down.

[Thomkal]

General opinion around KC amongst fans and media at this point is that Edwards is gone. I can't envision a GM candidate that would keep him.

I see the Chiefs keeping Thigpen as a backup and using free agency for a QB (over 20M already available in cap room with 30M being likely after releases and LJ trade). Defense is the likely pick including a possible trade-down.

I can't imagine a GM that would keep him either, but depending on who you listen to/read about, Clark Hunt likes Edwards, and wants to give him another year to rebuild the team. And that keeping him may be a prerequisite for any GM to come in. I don't see him staying either, but there is the possibility that he does.

[Thomkal]

I think the Chiefs are in a similar situation to the Falcons last year actually. New coach likely coming in, will want to run his system, and very little inherant talent at the QB position (sorry Tyler). You saw what happened in Atlanta and in Baltimore also. I know nothing about Bradford off the field, but if he's the same type of personality and leadership that Ryan and Flacco have shown, plus coming from a midwestern school, then it would not surprise me in the least if the Chiefs take him if he comes out for the draft and is still there at their spot.

[DeToxRox]

May as well get your Matt Stafford Lions jerseys now with Mayhew being named GM.

[Coffee Warlord]

Pretty sure I've said this before.

I'm terrified of the Bears taking an offensive player with their 1st rounder. Especially since they're likely better served nabbing a top-notch DB this year (if available). They simply don't know how to draft offensive players.

Draft defense and solve your offensive issues with free agency.

[Northwood_DK]

Even if you want a quarterback then why not try to get Matt Cassel and perhaps even Derek Anderson instead of going for a rookie. The chance of picking a Alex Smith is way bigger then picking another Matt Ryan.

[DeToxRox]

Even if you want a quarterback then why not try to get Matt Cassel and perhaps even Derek Anderson instead of going for a rookie. The chance of picking a Alex Smith is way bigger then picking another Matt Ryan.

I don't really want a QB but Cassel will cost a lot still, and truthfully, I don't think he'll be that special.

Anderson is just meh.

I'd rather take Andre Smith and Brandon Spikes and then in the 3rd take Chase Daniels.

Who knows though.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I don't really want a QB but Cassel will cost a lot still, and truthfully, I don't think he'll be that special.

Anderson is just meh.

I'd rather take Andre Smith and Brandon Spikes and then in the 3rd take Chase Daniels.

Who knows though.

This year's draft has a lot of QB options in the 2nd and 3rd round. You can still get a good QB prospect outside of the first round.

[Samdari]

Wells superior size and speed trumps Moreno's production

Wherever you got the idea that Wells was faster than Moreno, you can dispose of it now.

He may have looked faster vs Big-10 defenses than Moreno did against SEC defenses, but considering SEC players are 0.2 seconds faster per man in the 40, you can rest assured - Moreno is faster. He'll be fastest at the combine.

[RendeR]

Watch what the Bengals do with Benson. If they sign him I'd be very surprised if they took a RB. They need OL, but Crabtree would be hard for Brown to resist. Honestly I don't think there are any top players at need positions for the Bengals and I'd rather they trade down if possible. They could drop ten picks and end up with a starting ILB, C, and G in the first two rounds.


If Mike brown actually did this I'd cream my freaking shorts. This is precisely what they need to do. more picks for more players to lift the overall talent pool.

Honestly I really loved how the O-line looked against KC, granted it was the chiefs and that D wouldn't scare a div 2 team, but they executed well and they looked sharp out there. That kid we had at right tackle is a fucking monster, he's huge.

[Izulde]

I'm thinking Crabtree at #8 is a steal.

Also, how old is Leon Washington? With him there, I don't really see the Jets taking another RB in the 1st round.

Miami drafting an ILB? Nope. Not with Crowder and Ayodele there. Now, OLB I could see. Porter's getting up there in years. I also think the Dolphins secondary could use an upgrade. OL wouldn't shock me either, especially at the G spots. Nor would a NT or more CB help.

[DeToxRox]

I'm thinking Crabtree at #8 is a steal.

Also, how old is Leon Washington? With him there, I don't really see the Jets taking another RB in the 1st round.

Miami drafting an ILB? Nope. Not with Crowder and Ayodele there. Now, OLB I could see. Porter's getting up there in years. I also think the Dolphins secondary could use an upgrade. OL wouldn't shock me either, especially at the G spots. Nor would a NT or more CB help.

Brandon Spikes will not be an ILB in the NFL. He will be a disgusting SLB who can stop the run and get to the QB.

[DeToxRox]

Alabama star lineman Andre Smith suspended for Sugar Bowl - Breaking News from The Birmingham News - al.com (http://blog.al.com/spotnews/2008/12/alabama_star_lineman_andre_smi.html)

Andre Smith suspended for the Sugar Bowl for signing with an agent

[chesapeake]

I really hope you're wrong (re: Seattle). If they don't go WR (Crabtree) with their pick I'm hoping they do a minor trade down or just stay put and take a safety (likely Mays). They do need at least one more lineman, likely a center but they should be pretty set at tackle (supposed plan is for Locklear to slide to LT when Jones retires and they've got a few pretty good looking potential replacements for RT). A lot of that will depend on whether Solari returns (I hope so) and his evaluations of the current crop, but wow do the Hawks ever needs a receiver with truly elite potential and an upgrade to Brian Russell in the secondary.

Our Seahawks do need some help at WR -- especially a little size. I couldn't believe that I was sitting there in front of the TV yesterday thinking that they should not have let Jerheme Urban go. Jerheme freakin' Urban! That is how woeful the Seahawks are at WR.

That said, I disagree strongly with your assessment of the OL. Locklear hasn't even shown that he can play RT at this level, much less the more demanding LT position. The young guys on the line, Rob Sims and Chris Spencer, haven't yet shown that they can compete on this level either. Pork Chop Womack isn't the answer to any question -- unless that question happens to be "who has the best nickname on the team?"

Durability has been a big problem with the post-Hutchinson OL. All of the guys mentioned here have missed several games each season they have been on the team.

I won't cry if they go in either direction. They are certainly the most pressing needs on the team, and if they can get a productive player at either position, I'll be happy.

[Travis]

Our Seahawks do need some help at WR -- especially a little size. I couldn't believe that I was sitting there in front of the TV yesterday thinking that they should not have let Jerheme Urban go. Jerheme freakin' Urban! That is how woeful the Seahawks are at WR.

That said, I disagree strongly with your assessment of the OL. Locklear hasn't even shown that he can play RT at this level, much less the more demanding LT position. The young guys on the line, Rob Sims and Chris Spencer, haven't yet shown that they can compete on this level either. Pork Chop Womack isn't the answer to any question -- unless that question happens to be "who has the best nickname on the team?"

Durability has been a big problem with the post-Hutchinson OL. All of the guys mentioned here have missed several games each season they have been on the team.

I won't cry if they go in either direction. They are certainly the most pressing needs on the team, and if they can get a productive player at either position, I'll be happy.

For my money, I'm hoping to see a line of Jones-Wahle-C-G-Locklear next year. Locklear is definitely a stronger pass protector than run blocker and has looked good when he's had to fill in for Walt. Vallos has shown that he could back up at center and guard. The answer for Spencer may be moving him to guard as it requires less of the mental side than center (and takes away his primary issue of line calls. That'd mean that Sims/Spencer/Willis(who has nice potential, especially run blocking)/Wrotto could compete for the RG spot and the only spot you're shopping for a starter at is center.

I don't actually mind the WR core they have coming back next year except for exactly what you said, size. Figuring that one of Engram/Robinson come back along with Branch/Burleson and the kids, they have nice depth. They do need (imho) to find both a WR and CB that have size. The health of Branch/Burleson means you need to find a guy capable of starting though. *If* everybody could stay healthy (and if Burleson is back to anything close to 100%), that could be a pretty scary offense with how well Carlson progressed this season.

The injuries to the line, if anything, should have shown Solari what he has in that group, so if they do make whole sale changes, at least they're informed changes and should make the line that much better, but I'm hoping they saw something they can use the offseason to mold at least one solid (or better) starter out of a guy who didn't open this season on the starting line. There's a lot of physical potential there, hopefully some time with a line coach as good as Solari is made out to be does the trick.

I am very interested to see what direction Mora goes with the offense and who will be under center starting next season. I hope it's Hasselbeck with Wallace backing him up at least for next season, but I wouldn't necessarily be surprised if it looks different from that.

[kcchief19]

Uh, no. Thigpen has done well early in the game, but has choked time and time again as the game progresses into the 4th quarter. They provided a pretty telling statistic yesterday in the telecast that demonstrated it. In the first quarter, Thigpen has a rating of roughly 107. Each quarter, his rating drops. In the 4th quarter, his rating was 55.
I thought his 4th quarter number was even worse. Change of pace is probably the best description -- once team's realize his patterns and rhythm, they appear to be able to contain him nicely. I think we need to keep Thigpen as a backup because you can never have too many QBs, but anyone believing Thigpen is a playoff-caliber QB is deluding themselves.
I can't imagine a GM that would keep him either, but depending on who you listen to/read about, Clark Hunt likes Edwards, and wants to give him another year to rebuild the team. And that keeping him may be a prerequisite for any GM to come in. I don't see him staying either, but there is the possibility that he does.
That's essentially my read too -- I think Herm stays until a new GM is hired and the new GM will have to convince Clark that Herm must go -- or maybe Pioli will only come to KC if Herm goes first. :)

Even if Herm stays, there is nothing to suggest that Thigpen is his guy. He did everything he could to avoid playing Thigpen in the first place. For a guy who loves "youth," Herm tried to cart Huard out there as long as he could before the body gave up.
Even if you want a quarterback then why not try to get Matt Cassel and perhaps even Derek Anderson instead of going for a rookie. The chance of picking a Alex Smith is way bigger then picking another Matt Ryan.
I don't think Cassel will be available -- given the question marks around Brady's recovery, I think the Pats will franchise him to make sure he doesn't go anywhere. Derek Anderson will be cheap but I think he may be another Thigpen -- a nice spare tire to have around.

Yes, drafting a QB high is very risky. That's why the only QB I'd be willing to spend a top half of the first pick on would be Bradford if he comes out, and even then I'm worried because he's just a sophomore. If Stafford were a 2nd round pick, I'd take him.

The other glaring weakness for the Chiefs is on the D-line. Glenn Dorsey is heading toward bustville and we managed to set a record for fewest sacks in a season. this team needs a franchise DE like ... Jared Allen, which brings us back to why Carl is gone.

[st.cronin]

This year's draft has a lot of QB options in the 2nd and 3rd round. You can still get a good QB prospect outside of the first round.

Really, like who? I think there are basically two good qb prospects in this draft, and that's if Bradford leaves school. Sanchez is about like Booty, and probably won't declare anyway. Tebow may declare, and I think he's going to be good, but he does have major flaws. Who else is there? Josh Freeman? Mike Teel?

Wherever you got the idea that Wells was faster than Moreno, you can dispose of it now.

He may have looked faster vs Big-10 defenses than Moreno did against SEC defenses, but considering SEC players are 0.2 seconds faster per man in the 40, you can rest assured - Moreno is faster. He'll be fastest at the combine.

Really what I meant was size/speed combo. Wells is more of a prototype NFL back, Moreno is pretty small by NFL standards. Also, Moreno really isn't that fast - speed is not his strength, its his running instincts.

Brandon Spikes will not be an ILB in the NFL. He will be a disgusting SLB who can stop the run and get to the QB.

This. Spikes is like Curry or Maualuga, they could probably play any LB spot.

Our Seahawks do need some help at WR -- especially a little size. I couldn't believe that I was sitting there in front of the TV yesterday thinking that they should not have let Jerheme Urban go. Jerheme freakin' Urban! That is how woeful the Seahawks are at WR.

That said, I disagree strongly with your assessment of the OL. Locklear hasn't even shown that he can play RT at this level, much less the more demanding LT position. The young guys on the line, Rob Sims and Chris Spencer, haven't yet shown that they can compete on this level either. Pork Chop Womack isn't the answer to any question -- unless that question happens to be "who has the best nickname on the team?"

Durability has been a big problem with the post-Hutchinson OL. All of the guys mentioned here have missed several games each season they have been on the team.

I won't cry if they go in either direction. They are certainly the most pressing needs on the team, and if they can get a productive player at either position, I'll be happy.

This is my analysis, as well. O-line and WR are the Seahawks most pressing needs, but I think in today's NFL O-line gets a little higher priority than WR.

[kcchief19]

Really, like who? I think there are basically two good qb prospects in this draft, and that's if Bradford leaves school. Sanchez is about like Booty, and probably won't declare anyway. Tebow may declare, and I think he's going to be good, but he does have major flaws. Who else is there? Josh Freeman? Mike Teel?
There are zero senior first round-caliber QBs this year. The only chance of a QB being drafted are if underclassmen come out, and even then I think the likes of Sachez are second-round quality at best.

I think this draft is loaded with fifth round QBs but that's about it.

[bignej]

I don't really want a QB but Cassel will cost a lot still, and truthfully, I don't think he'll be that special.

Anderson is just meh.

I'd rather take Andre Smith and Brandon Spikes and then in the 3rd take Chase Daniels.

Who knows though.

As a browns fan, I dont think Anderson is that great. However, I would think that his deepball style would be a perfect fit for Calvin Johnson.

[Izulde]

Brandon Spikes will not be an ILB in the NFL. He will be a disgusting SLB who can stop the run and get to the QB.

In that case, I'll be happy if the 'Phins draft him. :)

[Travis]

This is my analysis, as well. O-line and WR are the Seahawks most pressing needs, but I think in today's NFL O-line gets a little higher priority than WR.

Out of curiosity, would you rank the o-line as a more pressing need than safety? I fully agree that the Seahawks need to address the line (personally I think they should look to upgrade the center position, if that happens, assuming Jones and Wahle are both good to go next season I believe the right side of the line is already taken care of, just a question of which two existing roster players deserve the spots) but even more importantly, they need to upgrade from Brian Russell. I'm assuming that Grant would move to the FS role full time and that they'd be looking for a SS but either way I really hope Russell is not a starter for the team next year. If they address this through the draft it's the type of need that I hope only a truly elite level WR prospect would be taken instead of a starter level safety.

I know the line is important, big Walt is still my favorite player in the league, I guess I just don't see the line as a whole being in that much trouble if they're able to add the right piece and let the rest fall into place. That said, I'd imagine that to get a starting calibre center they'd have to look to free agency over the draft if they want him to make calls at the line.

[DeToxRox]

Out of curiosity, would you rank the o-line as a more pressing need than safety? I fully agree that the Seahawks need to address the line (personally I think they should look to upgrade the center position, if that happens, assuming Jones and Wahle are both good to go next season I believe the right side of the line is already taken care of, just a question of which two existing roster players deserve the spots) but even more importantly, they need to upgrade from Brian Russell. I'm assuming that Grant would move to the FS role full time and that they'd be looking for a SS but either way I really hope Russell is not a starter for the team next year. If they address this through the draft it's the type of need that I hope only a truly elite level WR prospect would be taken instead of a starter level safety.

I know the line is important, big Walt is still my favorite player in the league, I guess I just don't see the line as a whole being in that much trouble if they're able to add the right piece and let the rest fall into place. That said, I'd imagine that to get a starting calibre center they'd have to look to free agency over the draft if they want him to make calls at the line.

Honestly, no Saftey is worthy of #4.

I fully expect Taylor Mays to be like Urlacher and play LB after being a S in college. Carrel said he thinks Mays can get up to 260 and be effective, which is absurd.

The problem with Mays, imo, is he isn't much better then Roy Williams out of college. He is surrounded by amazing talent so he can go out and make a big hit, or cheat some, and not worry. That'll change in the NFL though.

I think Mays will get drafted somewhere to be an LB because he'll be an okay safety at best.

[DeToxRox]

Dola

The best USC player in the drft is Brian Cushing. He can play all 3 LB spots, and play them well.

Maulauga was often out of position but like Mays, was able to play to the ball and not with instincts because his aren't amazing.

I think Maulauga needs to go to SD or another 3-4 team where he can be a SLB backer. He is a good run stopper and athletic enough to play the run. Already has the size and speed, but his instincts are not up to snuff to a MLB.

[chesapeake]

Honestly, no Saftey is worthy of #4.

I would amend this to say that rarely is a safety worth the #4 pick. It is not considered a position at which talent is hard to find.

Kenny Easley was the #4 pick and was the greatest Seahawk ever. Sean Taylor was pick #5 and was also probably worth that slot. Both were exceptional talents coming out of college.

[Travis]

Honestly, no Saftey is worthy of #4.

I fully expect Taylor Mays to be like Urlacher and play LB after being a S in college. Carrel said he thinks Mays can get up to 260 and be effective, which is absurd.

The problem with Mays, imo, is he isn't much better then Roy Williams out of college. He is surrounded by amazing talent so he can go out and make a big hit, or cheat some, and not worry. That'll change in the NFL though.

I think Mays will get drafted somewhere to be an LB because he'll be an okay safety at best.

Okay, so saying that you wouldn't go safety in the first round (barring a potential trade down), would you then prefer to go line over WR? The reason I ask here is because if you believe Walter Jones is coming back for another season (I'd be amazed if he didn't), would you address C/RT with that pick or go WR? I'm still of the belief that they can fill out the RG/RT spots with current roster players but that an upgrade has to be found at C. I don't follow college football much, but I'm guessing that center is one of the harder line spots to immediately jump into (not that WR in the WCO is all that easy assuming Mora retains a similar offense to what they're running now) and I have absolutely no idea how highly rated any potential centers are coming into the draft. Having Spencer as a backup center/guard would be a pretty nice luxury though I'd imagine he'd have a decent shot at winning the RG spot as the line calls seemed to be one of his biggest weaknesses.

[DeToxRox]

Okay, so saying that you wouldn't go safety in the first round (barring a potential trade down), would you then prefer to go line over WR? The reason I ask here is because if you believe Walter Jones is coming back for another season (I'd be amazed if he didn't), would you address C/RT with that pick or go WR? I'm still of the belief that they can fill out the RG/RT spots with current roster players but that an upgrade has to be found at C. I don't follow college football much, but I'm guessing that center is one of the harder line spots to immediately jump into (not that WR in the WCO is all that easy assuming Mora retains a similar offense to what they're running now) and I have absolutely no idea how highly rated any potential centers are coming into the draft. Having Spencer as a backup center/guard would be a pretty nice luxury though I'd imagine he'd have a decent shot at winning the RG spot as the line calls seemed to be one of his biggest weaknesses.

I look at it like this:

Smith is the best prospect in this draft.

At his best he is Orlando Pace.
At his worst he is Shawn Andrews.

Either way he's a Pro Bowler, just at OT or OG.

Walter Jones is amazing, but he has maybe two years left?

Get your franchise LT Incarnate back now. Let him play RT and learn from the best in the game, then move over when Jones retires and chances are you'll never lose that depth.

As a Lions fan, trust me on this.

Calvin is amazing but if we had a competent OL and QB, he'd be even more deadly.

Put the pieces in place on the line, then get a WR later. It'll be a better investment imo.

[Logan]

Rutgers WR Kenny Britt has declared for the draft.

[bhlloy]

I must have missed this discussion about the SC guys in the draft. I'm very impressed with DeTox's analysis. I pretty much agree with everything he said.

Mays is not good enough in coverage and is not around the ball enough to excel at FS in the NFL. At best he's a SS in a scheme that has him playing close to the line. That being said, he's 230lb now and runs in the 4.3 range (some have had him as high as 4.27) Somebody is going to get stupid and pick him way too early based on his combine numbers. He can easily be at 250lb and still running in the 4.4's. He's going to make a good OLB in the NFL, IMO. At that position he's a project, but 3 years down the line he's going to be good. He hits like a train and isn't scared of contact or taking on blockers.

Cushing is the best pro prospect IMO, and I think he'll end up playing MLB and Rey will end up on the outside. It's tough because Maualuaga's best trait is his sideline to sideline pursuit and range, but he doesn't have the play recognition and the smarts to play MLB in the NFL, which is a very tough position to play. I guess those things are coachable, we'll see. Again, he'll get drafted on his sick combine numbers and the team will have to worry about where to put him later. Cushing on the other hand, very smart, reads the play well and fills the gap as well as many of the elite LB's I have seen in college. He's still 250 (can probably get up to 260-265), runs a 4.6 and is very physical, and is a better form tackler than Rey. I would take him in the top 10 - he'll come right in and start from day 1 which I'm not sure either of the others will do.

[Logan]

Word is Bradford will declare as well.

Fantasy Football, Baseball and Basketball - news, projections, rankings, draft guide - Rotoworld.com (http://www.rotoworld.com/content/HeadLines.aspx?sport=NFL&hl=137444)

[Dr. Sak]

Stafford and Moreno just declared.

[Cuckoo]

Word is Bradford will declare as well.

Fantasy Football, Baseball and Basketball - news, projections, rankings, draft guide - Rotoworld.com (http://www.rotoworld.com/content/HeadLines.aspx?sport=NFL&hl=137444)

I wouldn't put too much stock in this "source." Rumor is that Bradford also told a recruit (Reuben Randle) that he's coming back. I don't have any inside sources, but my gut tells me he's not leaving. We'll see, though. Hard to turn down that much money.

[Cuckoo]

DOLA

Also just read that a station in OKC is reporting that Bradford has purchased an insurance policy for next season.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

KC Star is reporting that Jeremy Maclin is going to announce whether he'll be going pro on Friday. If he leaves school, he's generally considered to be a top 15 pick.

[Warhammer]

I hope the Rams take Crabtree at #2. They need to revamp the WR corps and he is a guy to build around. Sure they need more linemen, but I think with good planning you can pick up a good linemen later in the draft.

The other position they need is CB, but none of the guys on the list are worthy of the #2 spot. They could also trade down a bit and pick up some more picks which would be a great move.

[Coffee Warlord]

The other position they need is CB, but none of the guys on the list are worthy of the #2 spot. They could also trade down a bit and pick up some more picks which would be a great move.

Trade the #2 to the Bears so they can snag one of the QB's.

Utterly, hopelessly wishful thinking, but hey.

[Travis]

I hope the Rams take Crabtree at #2. They need to revamp the WR corps and he is a guy to build around. Sure they need more linemen, but I think with good planning you can pick up a good linemen later in the draft.

The other position they need is CB, but none of the guys on the list are worthy of the #2 spot. They could also trade down a bit and pick up some more picks which would be a great move.

I'm hoping you're wrong on your first point. As a Seahawks fan I'm really hoping Crabtree falls to #4. Trying to objective about the Rams, it seems like they have a pretty good young WR in Avery, but they do need to protect the QB better to give him time to get the ball out. One more year with Avery/Holt as their top two while helping out their line in the draft would still be a good route to take, then take another WR either in rounds 2/3 this year or early next year to address the potential post Holt era at the WR position.

That said, I'm not sure what the word really is on Avery. I had him on a few fantasy teams and while he seemed to be feast/famine during the middle part of the season he seemed to get a bit more consistent by the end of the year. Given that he was the first WR taken in last year's draft, is WR a route they'd likely take early again this draft?

[chesapeake]

Trade the #2 to the Bears so they can snag one of the QB's.

Utterly, hopelessly wishful thinking, but hey.

It would never work. What you don't know is that, in order to get the football gods to help hoodwink the Steelers into giving up Sid Luckman, George Halas had to promise them that never again would the Bears ask for or receive a quality NFL quarterback.

The football gods continue to hold the Bears to this promise. And, as you know, they are unforgiving.

If you made the trade, you'd end up drafting the Rick Mirer of this draft class. Better to not even try.

[Warhammer]

The problem is that the Rams cannot draft linemen early. Their track record is terrible. Better to take a sure commodity, and then build the lines in the later rounds.

That said, the one thing the Rams have going for them is even if they just take the BPA, that's an upgrade to the squad.

[Coffee Warlord]

If you made the trade, you'd end up drafting the Rick Mirer of this draft class. Better to not even try.

We already had Rick Mirer once. It wouldn't happen again. Right? RIGHT?

[chesapeake]

We already had Rick Mirer once. It wouldn't happen again. Right? RIGHT?

As I recall, you got him for a 6th or a 7th. The Seahawks had to spend the #2 pick in the draft for that steaming pile of crud.

[Coffee Warlord]

As I recall, you got him for a 6th or a 7th. The Seahawks had to spend the #2 pick in the draft for that steaming pile of crud.

Welllllll, we kinda took him for the 11th overall pick.

[cartman]

Michael Crabtree will announce this afternoon that he will be available for the Lions to take him at the #1 overall spot.

Texas Tech WR Crabtree to enter NFL draft - College Football - Rivals.com (http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/news?slug=txtexastechcrabtree&prov=st&type=lgns)

[Logan]

This is going to be a great draft pool, 85% due to the underclassmen.

[st.cronin]

Here are the underclassmen I know are declaring (will add to this as more names come out) and what I think their draft prospects look like:

Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri - 1st/2nd
P.J. Hill, RB, Wisconsin - 4th round at best
Beanie Wells, RB, Ohio State - 1st round pick
Everette Brown, WLB, Florida State - 1st/2nd
Jared Cook, TE, South Carolina - late first day
Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland - 1st/2nd
Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia - 1st round pick
Kevin Ogletree, WR, Virginia - 2nd day pick at best
Matt Stafford, QB, Georgia - top 5 pick
James Casey, TE, Rice - 2nd day pick
Jerraud Powers, CB, Auburn - not sure
Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech - top 10 pick
Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina - 1st/2nd
Gerald McRath, LB, Southern Mississippi - mid round pick
Kenny Britt, WR, Rutgers - 1st/2nd
Eben Britton, OT, Arizona - 1st/2nd
Donald Brown, RB, Connecticut - mid round pick
Anthony Reddick, FS, Miami - ???
Andre Smith, OT, Alabama - top 10
Emanuel Cook, S, South Carolina - 2nd round or later
Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois - 1st/2nd
Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas State - probable first day pick but who knows
Shonn Greene, RB, Iowa - 3rd round or later
Ricky Jean-Francois, DT, LSU - not sure
Sen'Derrick Marks, DT, Auburn - 1st/2nd
D.J. Moore, CB, Vanderbilt - 1st/2nd
Captain Munnerlyn, CB, South Carolina - 3rd round or later

[st.cronin]

It appears this class is very strong in offensive linemen and linebackers, and has good depth in wide receivers. It looks pretty weak in defensive linemen, quarterbacks, and running backs.

[Atocep]

I'm interested to see Bradford and Sanchez's decisions. I think Sanchez would be stupid not to come out this year and I would have said the same about Bradford, but if he comes out this year that game last night will be picked apart because it was one of the few games this year where he was pressured. I could see him slipping considerably between now and the draft if he declared.

[Cuckoo]

I wouldn't put too much stock in this "source." I don't have any inside sources, but my gut tells me he's not leaving. We'll see, though.

As I guessed, it looks like Bradford's coming back.

Source: Quarterback Sam Bradford expected to return to Oklahoma Sooners - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=3832957)

[DeToxRox]

Thank God.

Sanchez probably comes out now, but would rather he didn't.

Only chance Detroit has to deal that #1 pick is if Stafford is the only QB at the top of the draft.

[Vegas Vic]

Good news for Oklahoma, as all three of their potential 1st round draft picks (QB Sam Bradford, TE Jermaine Gresham and DT Gerald McCoy) announced that they're coming back to OU next year. Additionally, OT Trent Williams (projected 2nd round pick) announced that he was coming back for his senior year.

There was some speculation earlier in the year that RB Demarco Murray might be leaving at the end of the season, but his hamstring injury has set him back, and he'll definitely be returning next year.

[JPhillips]

In a violent sport like football I'd advise every guy that's likely a first round pick to leave.

[sooner333]

In a violent sport like football I'd advise every guy that's likely a first round pick to leave.

Yeah, I mean no Sooner fan could have blamed Bradford for leaving early. However, I do think there is something to be said about wanting to make sure you're ready. If you are risking going below the top ten where the bonus money isn't quite as ridiculous, you are more expendable and if you don't make it to start by your first contract, there might not be a second one. The NFL is pretty unforgiving to guys who don't progress. So if you have a chance to go back and get stronger and progress to where you can make an impact early, then you can help yourself out a lot for the long run.

[Galaxy]

Pittsburgh running back LeSean McCoy and Penn State DE Aaron Maybin are coming out.

[Crapshoot]

Yeah, I mean no Sooner fan could have blamed Bradford for leaving early. However, I do think there is something to be said about wanting to make sure you're ready. If you are risking going below the top ten where the bonus money isn't quite as ridiculous, you are more expendable and if you don't make it to start by your first contract, there might not be a second one. The NFL is pretty unforgiving to guys who don't progress. So if you have a chance to go back and get stronger and progress to where you can make an impact early, then you can help yourself out a lot for the long run.

Yeah, but every year you come back is another year of abuse - ie, there's only so much the human body can take, and that year spent at college is a year you're helping the legalized serfdom known as the NCAA at the expense of your career. I agree that if you're a fringe prospect with significantly variability you might want to stick around - if not, absolutely no reason to.

[Eaglesfan27]

Thank God.

Sanchez probably comes out now, but would rather he didn't.

Only chance Detroit has to deal that #1 pick is if Stafford is the only QB at the top of the draft.

ESPN is reporting that Sanchez has announced he will come out. However, his dad has said that isn't true and that Sanchez still hasn't decided. I think with Bradford staying in school, the smart decision is for Sanchez to go pro now where he has a decent shot at being the #1 QB taken, but I'm hoping he lets his heart override his brain.

[Vegas Vic]

Yeah, but every year you come back is another year of abuse - ie, there's only so much the human body can take, and that year spent at college is a year you're helping the legalized serfdom known as the NCAA at the expense of your career. I agree that if you're a fringe prospect with significantly variability you might want to stick around - if not, absolutely no reason to.

I think it can be a missed bag. If Bradford falls a few spots next year, he'll start out making less (but still significant money), but he'll also wind up getting drafted by a better team. How much is the extra money worth if you're getting abused every time you drop back to pass (see David Carr for the Houston Texans in 2002). I think Ben Roethlisberger and Joe Flacco are pretty happy with where they are right now. I'm not so sure the same can be said for Jamarcus Russell.

[Samdari]

the smart decision is for Sanchez to go pro now where he has a decent shot at being the #1 QB taken


I agree this is a smart decision, as he is clearly #2, and almost assured of the first round, but he has no chance of being the top QB. Its just going to be Stafford.

[Galaxy]

Just curious, who will be the top junior quarterbacks next year?

[Pumpy Tudors]

lucy ricardo apparently

[Samdari]

Just curious, who will be the top junior quarterbacks next year?

Uhhhhh, Bradford.

[Eaglesfan27]

I agree this is a smart decision, as he is clearly #2, and almost assured of the first round, but he has no chance of being the top QB. Its just going to be Stafford.

I guess we'll see, but I wouldn't count out Sanchez rising above him. I'm not saying it will happen, but there is definitely a chance. He doesn't have the arm strength of Stafford, but he has good arm strength and he has other qualities such as intangibles that could cause him to rise to #1. Regardless, he has a good chance of being a top 5 pick and it was smart for him to come out, but it obviously is very disappointing to me.

[Travis]

I'm all for Sanchez entering the draft. Give the Chiefs at least one QB to consider at their pick. I'm really hoping Crabtree gets to Seattle at #4 so anybody that may factor into a decision for any of the top 3 picks is more than welcome into the pool in my opinion.

That said, trying to be objective, he's probably smarter to come out now where he's likely a pretty good lock at #2 (as far as the QB position) with a shot at challenging for #1 rather than waiting a year and hoping to be #1 ahead of Bradford or anybody else who may emerge next season (never mind injury concerns).

[stevew]

Pete carrol seemed to be very against this decision. There's no way I would commit a double digit signing bonus to a guy with less than 30 or so college starts. Sanchez just doesn't have enough body of work to be properly evaluated.

[stevew]

Although I should add it was the right choice for him. Especially with Bradford not coming out.

[Galaxy]

Uhhhhh, Bradford.

I meant who will be the top underclassmen quarterbacks that will be able to enter the draft on their first round of eligibility?

[Atocep]

I meant who will be the top underclassmen quarterbacks that will be able to enter the draft on their first round of eligibility?

Probably Jimmy Clausen and Jevon Snead. Both need to take a jump forward, but as far as talent goes they're both capable.

Unless someone does step forward, though, it looks like a weak group of underclassman QBs next year.