So I was looking through the mailbag earlier today, and I had more than one email calling me out for projecting Jimmy Clausen as the number one pick in my initial mock draft. It was my plan to write out the economic/business justification for this selection, because that is what drove the decision initially, but this afternoon I read an article by John Clayton from ESPN. He did a better job explaining my position than I could have done. The link to his article is here.
As noted by my most recent Hot Stocks list, I believe Suh to be the top player in this draft. I love McCoy and Berry too. In fact, I had 10 players ranked ahead of both Bradford and Clausen. But to reiterate John Clayton's point... sometime it is the economics of the game that contributes more to draft choice than talent or need.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Prospectus - Myron Rolle, S, Florida State
For those of you not familiar with this section of Football Futures, Prospectus is where we take a more in depth look at an individual who is preparing to make the jump from college to the pros. This segment will focus on Florida State Safety, Myron Rolle.
Rolle is a very talented athlete, but then again, what else would you expect. Before reading on about Rolle's prospectus, I am providing you with an opportunity to get to know Myron a little better as a person. ESPN's Wright Thompson has written a wonderful piece on Rolle, and I think you should read this first.
His Game
Myron Rolle is one guy who the numbers simply don't paint the correct picture on. This guy is brilliant... like Rhodes Scholar brilliant. What this means is that he will not get out-smarted on the field. Rolle possesses tremendous athleticism. Although he is not the biggest ball hawk out there, he won't get beat deep, isn't afraid to come up to support the run, and is never caught out of position. Not only does he do all of the little things well, but he brings an unparalleled work ethic to the table too. He is uber-coachable, and is the kind of guy who can patrol a defensive backfield for many years.
The knocks on him are there too. He can be a little stiff in the hips at times, which makes his ability to stay on a quicker receiver more difficult. Also, because of his mental acuity, he tends to rely on it more than he does his instincts. This can lead to him getting a late jump on a play, and in my opinion, it is why he had only one pick during his tenure at FSU. Something else to remember about Rolle. He has been away from the game for the last year. While becoming a Rhodes Scholar is unbelievable, his time at Oxford kept him off the field this past season. This means when he shows up in Indy at the end of February, it will be the first time many of his possible investors will have an opportunity to really analyze this guy.
The Grade
There is no doubt in my mind that Rolle is the kind of guy you want on your team. My concerns however are these: First, how rusty will he be after a year away. Sure he worked out religiously while at Oxford, but there is a tremendous difference in working out, and seeing game action. Guys who are gone too long can lose their edge, so Rolle will have a lot to prove in Indy. Second, although this is kind of awful to say, will Myron have the dedication necessary to be worth a long term investment. He is so smart and talented. But it is these smarts and talents that already have him preparing to become a doctor after football. How much will Rolle be willing to risk? Neurosurgeons need their heads and their hands, which begs the question, how many hits will he allow himself to sustain? Any team looking at Rolle has to be thinking about this because if he is willing to give only 5 or so years, it will impact his stock in a very negative way.
Before seeing Rolle in Indy, I have him rated as my 5th best safety in this class.
EZ's Saftey Rankings
1. Eric Berry, Tennessee
2. Earl Thomas, Texas
3. Taylor Mayes, USC
4. Nate Allen, South Florida
5. Myron Rolle, Florida State
Currently, I will give Rolle a 2nd Round grade. He is one player for whom Indy can mean a lot though.
Rolle is a very talented athlete, but then again, what else would you expect. Before reading on about Rolle's prospectus, I am providing you with an opportunity to get to know Myron a little better as a person. ESPN's Wright Thompson has written a wonderful piece on Rolle, and I think you should read this first.
The Measures
Height: 6' 2"
Weight: 218 lbs
Age: 23
Stats
| Tackles | Sacks | Forced Fumb | Fumb Rec | Int | TD | |
| 2006 | 77 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| 2007 | 68 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2008 | 62 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Totals | 207 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
His Game
Myron Rolle is one guy who the numbers simply don't paint the correct picture on. This guy is brilliant... like Rhodes Scholar brilliant. What this means is that he will not get out-smarted on the field. Rolle possesses tremendous athleticism. Although he is not the biggest ball hawk out there, he won't get beat deep, isn't afraid to come up to support the run, and is never caught out of position. Not only does he do all of the little things well, but he brings an unparalleled work ethic to the table too. He is uber-coachable, and is the kind of guy who can patrol a defensive backfield for many years.
The knocks on him are there too. He can be a little stiff in the hips at times, which makes his ability to stay on a quicker receiver more difficult. Also, because of his mental acuity, he tends to rely on it more than he does his instincts. This can lead to him getting a late jump on a play, and in my opinion, it is why he had only one pick during his tenure at FSU. Something else to remember about Rolle. He has been away from the game for the last year. While becoming a Rhodes Scholar is unbelievable, his time at Oxford kept him off the field this past season. This means when he shows up in Indy at the end of February, it will be the first time many of his possible investors will have an opportunity to really analyze this guy.The Grade
There is no doubt in my mind that Rolle is the kind of guy you want on your team. My concerns however are these: First, how rusty will he be after a year away. Sure he worked out religiously while at Oxford, but there is a tremendous difference in working out, and seeing game action. Guys who are gone too long can lose their edge, so Rolle will have a lot to prove in Indy. Second, although this is kind of awful to say, will Myron have the dedication necessary to be worth a long term investment. He is so smart and talented. But it is these smarts and talents that already have him preparing to become a doctor after football. How much will Rolle be willing to risk? Neurosurgeons need their heads and their hands, which begs the question, how many hits will he allow himself to sustain? Any team looking at Rolle has to be thinking about this because if he is willing to give only 5 or so years, it will impact his stock in a very negative way.
Before seeing Rolle in Indy, I have him rated as my 5th best safety in this class.
EZ's Saftey Rankings
2. Earl Thomas, Texas
3. Taylor Mayes, USC
4. Nate Allen, South Florida
5. Myron Rolle, Florida State
Currently, I will give Rolle a 2nd Round grade. He is one player for whom Indy can mean a lot though.
Big News
Hello there loyal followers....
I have some very big news to share with you about Football Futures. Recently, Football Futures was seen by the owner of a Production company. He liked what he saw, and last week, we reached an agreement to produce a video podcast of Football Futures to be shared here, and eventually on i-Tunes.
This is very exciting news. I want to thank our new friends for agreeing to produce our content in this additional format for our followers. Keep on the lookout everyone for the Football Futures podcast, brought to you by EZ, and our friends at Diamond Thunderbolt Productions !!!
I have some very big news to share with you about Football Futures. Recently, Football Futures was seen by the owner of a Production company. He liked what he saw, and last week, we reached an agreement to produce a video podcast of Football Futures to be shared here, and eventually on i-Tunes.
This is very exciting news. I want to thank our new friends for agreeing to produce our content in this additional format for our followers. Keep on the lookout everyone for the Football Futures podcast, brought to you by EZ, and our friends at Diamond Thunderbolt Productions !!!
Friday, February 19, 2010
Mock Draft 2.19.10
The Senior Bowl is in the books, and the combine invitations have been issued. There is a whole lot of changes in this mock, starting with the top overall pick. Of course combine results as well as individual workouts, and the early parts of free agency will all effect this projection, but as of now...
The Rams need a QB if they are going to return to respectability, but the grades of Bradford and Clausen aren't worthy of the first overall pick. Suh on the other hand is. He is as pro ready as they come, and will immediately plug holes in the middle of the defensive front. I still think the Rams would be better of though, trading down and getting multiple assets to help.
2. Detroit Lions – Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma
McCoy has Warren Sapp like potential. He is the best pass rushing tackle in this class. He is the kind of player that will drive opposing o-line coaches crazy. The Lions are slowly improving, and they made a big investment in their future on offense with Stafford last year. Now they can make a similar commitment to their defense with McCoy.
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Eric Berry, S, Tennessee
Shannahan and the Skins still have a need at QB and both Bradford and Clausen will get discussion, but in the end, logic will rule, and Washington will make the correct choice and address their highly depleted offensive line. Okung is still holding onto the top grade amongst the o-linemen, although barely, and he can fill an immediate need at tackle for Washington.
This
years draft lacks top end talent at corner, except for Florida’s Joe
Haden. He has all the potential to be a shut down corner, and Todd
Haley and Scott Pioli need to get new DC Romeo Crennell some weapons.
Haden should be the team’s selection, as he could be the new Asante
Samuel for Patriots West.
During my previous Mock, I projected the Seahawks nabbing Davis with their second pick of the first round, at 14. Things change though. Davis has been on a huge rise, and with Okung coming off the board with the last pick, the Hawks will not wait to address their largest need. Davis will be picked due to his strong upside, and the expected immediate contribution he can make to this team. Bradford and Clausen will also get some consideration with this choice too.
Morgan
is versatile and can bring some punch to a defense. He can pressure
the QB from the edge, and he can drop into coverage when necessary
too. New Browns Czar Holmgren will choose this guy because of all the
options he will have with him on the defensive side of the ball.
8. Oakland Raiders – Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma
Last
year the Raiders blew their first rounder on a marginal talent in
Heyward-Bey with Crabtree still on the board. Maybe this year will be
different. The team has a lot invested in skill guys in their
backfield (read, Russell and McFadden). They need to keep opposing
defenses off them. With Okung and Davis already gone, Oakland will not risk losing out on an impact lineman, so they will choose the tackle from Oklahoma.
The Bills have needs on their offensive front, and with the run on tackles their will be some intense discussion here. In the end however, the Bills will end the Trent Edwards error, um I mean era, by selecting Sam Bradford. With recent reports from Dr James Andrews that Bradford is ahead of schedule on his return Bradford has jumped Clausen on my board, and the Bills will choose this pro-ready QB with the 9th overall selection.
The
Jags need to play better if Del Rio has any chance of saving his job
beyond this season. When Jack played he was an impact inside
linebacker, and he knows personally what that can do for a defense and
subsequently a team. McClain is a tackling machine, and there is no
reason to think he won’t have a huge impact at the pro level. The Jags
could be getting their own version of Patrick Willis with this
selection.
Thanks
to dealing Cutler, the Broncos are in a great position in this draft.
Last season the team struggled off the edge with McBean and Peterson as
their starters. Pierre Paul is raw, but has huge upside. He has
freakish athleticism and could be another Javon Kearse if he continues
to develop. He benefited from playing across from a big reputation in
George Selvie, so becoming the man will be a different view for Pierre
Paul, but he has all the upside for Denver to think he can get it done.
The
Phins will be in the market for linebackers this offseason, and if
McClain would fall to them here I’d expect them to pull the trigger.
Bt since we have him off the board, I expect them to look to their
other big need, wide out. Henne needs some weapons to be more
dangerous, and Bryant is exactly that. He has awesome talent and if he
can prove his suspension was a result of a bad choice not bad character
the dolphins will pick him here.
The
Niners are one of the two teams in the first round with multiple selections. There are a few directions the team cold go with this pick. Because Clausen is still available, he will get some discussion here. So will Texas Safety, Earl Thomas. In the end though the run on tackles will prompt the Niners to jump on the Iowa lineman Bulaga. He is talented, and has a mean streak which will help him upgrade the San Fran line immediately.
Since they addressed their biggest need with their first selection, the Hawks will have some flexibility with this choice. It will come down to two players. Tennessee's Dan Williams is flying up boards because he is looking like a difference maker on the defensive front. In the end however, the Hawks need for an heir to Hasslebeck at the helm will lead them to snap up the over hyped Notre Dame signal caller, Clausen with this pick.
The
Giants will be the beneficiaries of Clausen's fall. Because Seattle will jump at the previous selection, Williams becomes available to NY here. The G-men need help at linebacker, but they also need help up the middle of their defense. Williams has excellent potential and his rise up draft boards will make him irresistible to the Giants here at 15.
There is little question about the talent that Carlos Dunlap is. He has all of the technical tools you want in a DE, and he has so much athleticism it is scary. Unfortunately, there are character questions surrounding this guy. At the end of the day however, the Titans will make this selection because they need a presence like Dunlap in their front seven.
17. San Francisco 49ers –Earl Thomas, S, Texas
As I mentioned earlier, the Niners will take a look at Thomas with their earlier selection. In this scenario, their patients pays dividends as Thomas falls to them here. His ball skills and overall athleticism will make him an attractive option to really add another playmaker to this side of the ball. The additions of Bulaga and Thomas make this team so much more formidable next season, and my new favorites to win the NFC West.
Steelers
football all begins with the play of the front five on the o-line. If
this team is to be successful they need to be able to run the
football. Rashard Mendenhall is a future star, and they need another
big body to pave his way. The team lost a lot when Alan Faneca left for New York, and they need to replace him. Iuptai is a rare interior lineman who could be a true impact player. Guards and Centers don't usually breach the first round, but this kid is deserving.
Atlanta
needs to play better defense if they want to compete again. To deal with pass productive teams like New Orleans, they have to be strong at the corners. Kyle Wilson had a great Senior Bowl, and really impressed scouts with his ability to cover, and his breaks on the ball. He has moved to the number one corner spot on my board, which makes him ripe for the Falcons to grab up here at 19.
The
Texans played musical running backs all season long, and it hurt this
team badly. Slaton has talent, but he needs to spend some time with
Tiki Barber learning to hold on to the football. Moats and the rest of
the platoon are not starting RB material long term. Spiller on the
other hand can be a superstar. He is big enough to hold up in the
pros, and he is fast enough to fit the teams offense. He will be the
kind of back this team needs, and could push the Texans to the next
level.
Another
pick, another Sooner. Gresham is such a mega talent, I had him graded
out as the top TE last year if he had come out. This year is no
different. He can do everything you want a tight end to do, and
Cincinnati needs another difference maker to help Carson Palmer out.
The Bengals made great strides this season, despite have an emotionally
difficult season. Imagine the strides next season with Gresham on
board.
New
England’s offense was exposed a little this year. Brady showed he is
healed, but teams are learning that if you pressure him, and play up on
his wide outs, you can beat New England. They need a running game to
help them back to prominence, and Best is the best running back still
on the board. Fred Taylor is no longer a difference maker, so Best can
step in and provide the spark and the running threat this team needs.
Green
Bay had a nice bounce back season, and Aaron Rodgers has emerged as a
prime playmaker like the team had hoped when they drafted him to
replace Favre. To take the next step forward this team needs to
provide Rodgers with a playmaker at wide out, and this is why a guy like Arellius Benn will get discussed. In the end however,
the team will go with Taylor Mayes. Mayes is just too talented to pass
up, and with the Green Bay secondary aging, he is exactly the type of
player they need in the fold.
Every year, some players slip on draft day more as a result of other players rise then anything they have done. Sergio Kindle is one of those guys in this mock. He showed in the National Title game how impactful he can be, both with his hand in the dirt, and from a stand position. He is a high energy player with great speed, and acceleration. A team like the Eagles could use this type of playmaker in their defense again, and therefore I see this as their selection.
There
is little doubt in anyone’s mind that Baltimore needs a primary target
to throw to. The signing of Donte Stallworth was nice, but he is not a number one type guy. Arrelious Benn has that kind of potential. I think if he had a QB who could get him the ball at Illinois, he could have pushed Bryant for the top WR in this class. Bottom line, Benn will quickly become Flaco's favorite target, and this tandem could push Baltimore back into the AFC elite.
Despite the retirement of Kurt Warner, the Cards primary need will be on the defensive side of the ball. Bert Berry has also called it a career, and Karlos Dansby looks poised to take his game elsewhere next season. Brandon Graham is a tweener type player who could play end in a 4-3, or a linebacker in a 3-4. This versatility will make him valuable to an Arizona franchise who has needs at both spots right now.
27. Dallas Cowboys – Brian Price, DT, UCLA
The
Cowboys have a roster to get excited about, yet they still seem to
struggle to put the pieces together to turn this team into a
championship team. The Boys have to put beef up in the middle of that
defensive front, and Brian Price is just the guy to help them do it.
If he can plug some holes for this team, it could help Dallas become
more stout against the run, and subsequently, a more dominant team.
28. San Diego Chargers – Jonathan Dwyer, RB, Georgia Tech
The
Chargers are in a very unfamiliar situation. They enter this offseason
with a need a running back. It seems that Tomlinson may be at the end
of his hall-of-fame career, and although Sproles is quick, he is a
better change of pace back than primary ball carrier. Dwyer is shifty,
and he brings a great nose for holes to the pro game. He can find the
seam, and he makes fairly quick decisions, and cuts making him a
seemingly good replacement for LT.
USC
wide outs have gotten a rep for becoming pro busts recently. Where as
you can understand why that may be, I think Williams could be
different. This kid shows more promise to me that either predecessor
Williams, or Jarrett. I think the Jets definitely need a prime time
target for Sanchez, since I don’t expect them to bring back Edwards,
and who better than his college teammate. This pair already knows each
other, so the chemistry should already be in place for this to be a
dynamic combination for the future.
The
weakness that the Vikes have shown this season has been in their
secondary. Cedric Griffin has not become a stud yet, and Winfield may
be at the end of his road. Rutgers standout Devin McCourty benefited from spending one more year in school, and unlike his twin brother Jason who was taken last season in the 6th round by the Titans, Devin has pushed his way into the late end of the first round. Not only can this kid cover, but he can return kicks too.
As long as Peyton Manning lines up under center in Indy, this offense will continue to find ways to score. The defense is under rated, but still lacks presence in the middle of the line. Jared Odrick is a tackle moving up draft boards right now, and with a late first/early second round grade, he makes sense for Indy. If he can occupy blockers up front the backers should be able to make more plays, and the very good ends on this team can put even more pressure on opposing QBs.
To close out round one, we have the Super Bowl champion, New Orleans Saints. Gosh, that still feel strange to type. Greg Williams has solidified himself in my mind as the pre-eminent defensive football mind currently in the NFL. He turned this defense into the games most under rated (just ask Peyton Manning). Despite this achievement, the defense could still use the addition of some talent in their linebacking corps. Bowman is a real good talent who has terrific upside. He also comes from a school who knows how to grow linebackers, and thus makes a good addition to the defending World Champs.
1. St Louis Rams – Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska
The Rams need a QB if they are going to return to respectability, but the grades of Bradford and Clausen aren't worthy of the first overall pick. Suh on the other hand is. He is as pro ready as they come, and will immediately plug holes in the middle of the defensive front. I still think the Rams would be better of though, trading down and getting multiple assets to help.2. Detroit Lions – Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma
McCoy has Warren Sapp like potential. He is the best pass rushing tackle in this class. He is the kind of player that will drive opposing o-line coaches crazy. The Lions are slowly improving, and they made a big investment in their future on offense with Stafford last year. Now they can make a similar commitment to their defense with McCoy.3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Eric Berry, S, Tennessee
3
overall is normally too high to look at a safety. However, Eric Berry
is not a normal safety and the safety position has changed. Guys like
Reed, Sanders, and Polomalu are changing how defense is played in the
NFL, and the Bucs need help in the secondary badly. No doubt that
current HC Raheem Morris has spoken to his former boss Monte Kiffin all
about Berry (Kiffin coached Berry this past season at Tennessee), and I
expect the Bucs to pull the trigger and acquire the most talented
athlete on the board.
4. Washington Redskins – Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State
Shannahan and the Skins still have a need at QB and both Bradford and Clausen will get discussion, but in the end, logic will rule, and Washington will make the correct choice and address their highly depleted offensive line. Okung is still holding onto the top grade amongst the o-linemen, although barely, and he can fill an immediate need at tackle for Washington.
5. Kansas City Chiefs – Joe Haden, CB, Florida
This
years draft lacks top end talent at corner, except for Florida’s Joe
Haden. He has all the potential to be a shut down corner, and Todd
Haley and Scott Pioli need to get new DC Romeo Crennell some weapons.
Haden should be the team’s selection, as he could be the new Asante
Samuel for Patriots West.
6. Seattle Seahawks – Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers
During my previous Mock, I projected the Seahawks nabbing Davis with their second pick of the first round, at 14. Things change though. Davis has been on a huge rise, and with Okung coming off the board with the last pick, the Hawks will not wait to address their largest need. Davis will be picked due to his strong upside, and the expected immediate contribution he can make to this team. Bradford and Clausen will also get some consideration with this choice too.
7. Cleveland Browns – Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech
Morgan
is versatile and can bring some punch to a defense. He can pressure
the QB from the edge, and he can drop into coverage when necessary
too. New Browns Czar Holmgren will choose this guy because of all the
options he will have with him on the defensive side of the ball.8. Oakland Raiders – Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma
Last
year the Raiders blew their first rounder on a marginal talent in
Heyward-Bey with Crabtree still on the board. Maybe this year will be
different. The team has a lot invested in skill guys in their
backfield (read, Russell and McFadden). They need to keep opposing
defenses off them. With Okung and Davis already gone, Oakland will not risk losing out on an impact lineman, so they will choose the tackle from Oklahoma.
9. Buffalo Bills – Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma
The Bills have needs on their offensive front, and with the run on tackles their will be some intense discussion here. In the end however, the Bills will end the Trent Edwards error, um I mean era, by selecting Sam Bradford. With recent reports from Dr James Andrews that Bradford is ahead of schedule on his return Bradford has jumped Clausen on my board, and the Bills will choose this pro-ready QB with the 9th overall selection.
10. Jacksonville Jaguars – Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama
The
Jags need to play better if Del Rio has any chance of saving his job
beyond this season. When Jack played he was an impact inside
linebacker, and he knows personally what that can do for a defense and
subsequently a team. McClain is a tackling machine, and there is no
reason to think he won’t have a huge impact at the pro level. The Jags
could be getting their own version of Patrick Willis with this
selection.
11. Denver Broncos via Chicago Bears – Jason Pierre Paul, DE, South Florida
Thanks
to dealing Cutler, the Broncos are in a great position in this draft.
Last season the team struggled off the edge with McBean and Peterson as
their starters. Pierre Paul is raw, but has huge upside. He has
freakish athleticism and could be another Javon Kearse if he continues
to develop. He benefited from playing across from a big reputation in
George Selvie, so becoming the man will be a different view for Pierre
Paul, but he has all the upside for Denver to think he can get it done.
12. Miami Dolphins – Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State
The
Phins will be in the market for linebackers this offseason, and if
McClain would fall to them here I’d expect them to pull the trigger.
Bt since we have him off the board, I expect them to look to their
other big need, wide out. Henne needs some weapons to be more
dangerous, and Bryant is exactly that. He has awesome talent and if he
can prove his suspension was a result of a bad choice not bad character
the dolphins will pick him here.
13. San Francisco 49ers – Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa
The
Niners are one of the two teams in the first round with multiple selections. There are a few directions the team cold go with this pick. Because Clausen is still available, he will get some discussion here. So will Texas Safety, Earl Thomas. In the end though the run on tackles will prompt the Niners to jump on the Iowa lineman Bulaga. He is talented, and has a mean streak which will help him upgrade the San Fran line immediately.
14. Seattle Seahawks via Denver – Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame
Since they addressed their biggest need with their first selection, the Hawks will have some flexibility with this choice. It will come down to two players. Tennessee's Dan Williams is flying up boards because he is looking like a difference maker on the defensive front. In the end however, the Hawks need for an heir to Hasslebeck at the helm will lead them to snap up the over hyped Notre Dame signal caller, Clausen with this pick.
15. New York Giants – Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee
The
Giants will be the beneficiaries of Clausen's fall. Because Seattle will jump at the previous selection, Williams becomes available to NY here. The G-men need help at linebacker, but they also need help up the middle of their defense. Williams has excellent potential and his rise up draft boards will make him irresistible to the Giants here at 15.
16. Tennessee Titans – Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida
There is little question about the talent that Carlos Dunlap is. He has all of the technical tools you want in a DE, and he has so much athleticism it is scary. Unfortunately, there are character questions surrounding this guy. At the end of the day however, the Titans will make this selection because they need a presence like Dunlap in their front seven. 17. San Francisco 49ers –Earl Thomas, S, Texas
As I mentioned earlier, the Niners will take a look at Thomas with their earlier selection. In this scenario, their patients pays dividends as Thomas falls to them here. His ball skills and overall athleticism will make him an attractive option to really add another playmaker to this side of the ball. The additions of Bulaga and Thomas make this team so much more formidable next season, and my new favorites to win the NFC West.
18. Pittsburgh Steelers – Mike Iuptai, G, Idaho
Steelers
football all begins with the play of the front five on the o-line. If
this team is to be successful they need to be able to run the
football. Rashard Mendenhall is a future star, and they need another
big body to pave his way. The team lost a lot when Alan Faneca left for New York, and they need to replace him. Iuptai is a rare interior lineman who could be a true impact player. Guards and Centers don't usually breach the first round, but this kid is deserving.
19. Atlanta Falcons – Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State
Atlanta
needs to play better defense if they want to compete again. To deal with pass productive teams like New Orleans, they have to be strong at the corners. Kyle Wilson had a great Senior Bowl, and really impressed scouts with his ability to cover, and his breaks on the ball. He has moved to the number one corner spot on my board, which makes him ripe for the Falcons to grab up here at 19.
20. Houston Texans – CJ Spiller, RB, Clemson
The
Texans played musical running backs all season long, and it hurt this
team badly. Slaton has talent, but he needs to spend some time with
Tiki Barber learning to hold on to the football. Moats and the rest of
the platoon are not starting RB material long term. Spiller on the
other hand can be a superstar. He is big enough to hold up in the
pros, and he is fast enough to fit the teams offense. He will be the
kind of back this team needs, and could push the Texans to the next
level.
21. Cincinnati Bengals – Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma
Another
pick, another Sooner. Gresham is such a mega talent, I had him graded
out as the top TE last year if he had come out. This year is no
different. He can do everything you want a tight end to do, and
Cincinnati needs another difference maker to help Carson Palmer out.
The Bengals made great strides this season, despite have an emotionally
difficult season. Imagine the strides next season with Gresham on
board.
22. New England Patriots – Jahvid Best, RB, California
New
England’s offense was exposed a little this year. Brady showed he is
healed, but teams are learning that if you pressure him, and play up on
his wide outs, you can beat New England. They need a running game to
help them back to prominence, and Best is the best running back still
on the board. Fred Taylor is no longer a difference maker, so Best can
step in and provide the spark and the running threat this team needs.
23. Green Bay Packers – Taylor Mayes, S, USC
Green
Bay had a nice bounce back season, and Aaron Rodgers has emerged as a
prime playmaker like the team had hoped when they drafted him to
replace Favre. To take the next step forward this team needs to
provide Rodgers with a playmaker at wide out, and this is why a guy like Arellius Benn will get discussed. In the end however,
the team will go with Taylor Mayes. Mayes is just too talented to pass
up, and with the Green Bay secondary aging, he is exactly the type of
player they need in the fold.
24. Philadelphia Eagles – Sergio Kindle, LB, Texas
Every year, some players slip on draft day more as a result of other players rise then anything they have done. Sergio Kindle is one of those guys in this mock. He showed in the National Title game how impactful he can be, both with his hand in the dirt, and from a stand position. He is a high energy player with great speed, and acceleration. A team like the Eagles could use this type of playmaker in their defense again, and therefore I see this as their selection.
25. Baltimore Ravens – Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois
There
is little doubt in anyone’s mind that Baltimore needs a primary target
to throw to. The signing of Donte Stallworth was nice, but he is not a number one type guy. Arrelious Benn has that kind of potential. I think if he had a QB who could get him the ball at Illinois, he could have pushed Bryant for the top WR in this class. Bottom line, Benn will quickly become Flaco's favorite target, and this tandem could push Baltimore back into the AFC elite.
26. Arizona Cardinals – Brandon Graham, DE/LB, Michigan
Despite the retirement of Kurt Warner, the Cards primary need will be on the defensive side of the ball. Bert Berry has also called it a career, and Karlos Dansby looks poised to take his game elsewhere next season. Brandon Graham is a tweener type player who could play end in a 4-3, or a linebacker in a 3-4. This versatility will make him valuable to an Arizona franchise who has needs at both spots right now.27. Dallas Cowboys – Brian Price, DT, UCLA
The
Cowboys have a roster to get excited about, yet they still seem to
struggle to put the pieces together to turn this team into a
championship team. The Boys have to put beef up in the middle of that
defensive front, and Brian Price is just the guy to help them do it.
If he can plug some holes for this team, it could help Dallas become
more stout against the run, and subsequently, a more dominant team.28. San Diego Chargers – Jonathan Dwyer, RB, Georgia Tech
The
Chargers are in a very unfamiliar situation. They enter this offseason
with a need a running back. It seems that Tomlinson may be at the end
of his hall-of-fame career, and although Sproles is quick, he is a
better change of pace back than primary ball carrier. Dwyer is shifty,
and he brings a great nose for holes to the pro game. He can find the
seam, and he makes fairly quick decisions, and cuts making him a
seemingly good replacement for LT.
29. New York Jets – Damian Williams, WR, USC
USC
wide outs have gotten a rep for becoming pro busts recently. Where as
you can understand why that may be, I think Williams could be
different. This kid shows more promise to me that either predecessor
Williams, or Jarrett. I think the Jets definitely need a prime time
target for Sanchez, since I don’t expect them to bring back Edwards,
and who better than his college teammate. This pair already knows each
other, so the chemistry should already be in place for this to be a
dynamic combination for the future.
30. Minnesota Vikings – Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers
The
weakness that the Vikes have shown this season has been in their
secondary. Cedric Griffin has not become a stud yet, and Winfield may
be at the end of his road. Rutgers standout Devin McCourty benefited from spending one more year in school, and unlike his twin brother Jason who was taken last season in the 6th round by the Titans, Devin has pushed his way into the late end of the first round. Not only can this kid cover, but he can return kicks too.
31. Indianapolis Colts – Jared Odrick, DT, Penn State
As long as Peyton Manning lines up under center in Indy, this offense will continue to find ways to score. The defense is under rated, but still lacks presence in the middle of the line. Jared Odrick is a tackle moving up draft boards right now, and with a late first/early second round grade, he makes sense for Indy. If he can occupy blockers up front the backers should be able to make more plays, and the very good ends on this team can put even more pressure on opposing QBs.
32. New Orleans Saints –Navarro Bowman, LB, Penn State
To close out round one, we have the Super Bowl champion, New Orleans Saints. Gosh, that still feel strange to type. Greg Williams has solidified himself in my mind as the pre-eminent defensive football mind currently in the NFL. He turned this defense into the games most under rated (just ask Peyton Manning). Despite this achievement, the defense could still use the addition of some talent in their linebacking corps. Bowman is a real good talent who has terrific upside. He also comes from a school who knows how to grow linebackers, and thus makes a good addition to the defending World Champs.Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Hot Stocks - Feb 2010
The Senior Bowl is in the books and the invites to Indy have been sent. Some players really helped themselves with their post-season play including; Anthony Davis, Dan Williams, Brandon Graham, and Kyle Wilson. Guys like Taylor Mays and Tim Tebow struggled though, and as a result they continue to loose some value in this months review of our Hot Stocks.
1. Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska (Even)
Another update and Suh maintains his rank as the top stock in the nation. This guy will makes some team (Rams?) very happy in April's draft.
2. Eric Berry, S, Tennessee (Even)
Berry is the top playmaker in any defensive backfield in the nation. He can hit, support the run, and he is a superb ball hawk. The comparisons to Ed Reed are warranted.
3. Gerald McCoy, DT, USC (Even)
McCoy is the best pass rushing DT to come from college since Warren Sapp matriculated from the U. He will be a disruption to opposing lines, and OC's around the league need to account for this guy.
4. Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State (Even)
Okung is still the best of the deep O-Line crop, but the gap has closed quickly with the recent rise of Davis. I still really like what Okung brings to the table, and I think potential investors (NFL Teams) will be very please with his ROI.
5. Joe Haden, CB, Florida (Even)
Clearly the best cover corner in this years class, Haden has shut down ability. He has excellent explosion, and can play physical football too.
6. Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State (+1)
Despite some character concerns, Bryant is no doubt the most talented receiver in this year's class. He can run, catch, and return kicks. He will be an impact player at the next level.
7. Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers (+10)
Davis continues to rocket up the board with his tremendous potential. He could soon be looking at the top spot amongst tackles if this type of rise continues.
8. Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech (-2)
As is common this time of year, sometimes we see player slide not because of what they do, but because of the rise of others. Morgan's fall is a result of the rise of Davis and Pierre-Paul closing the gap at the DE spot.
9. Jason Pierre Paul, DE, South Florida (+4)
JPP's raw skills have talent evaluators drooling. The potential ROI on this kid is off the charts, and it continues to result in him rising up the board.
10. Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama (Even)
McClain is still the best linebacker in this year's class. Despite movement all around him, McClain manages to maintain his position at the end of the top 10.
11. Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma (-2)
This month shows good news and bad news for Bradford. The bad news is he slipped two more spots on our board. The good news is that he has leaped Jimmy Clausen to reclaim the top spot at the QB position. This will likely result in Bradford being drafted higher than his 11th position would indicate.
12. Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame (-4)
Jimmy has fallen again. Despite the hype, I am beginning to feel like Clausen was overvalued. With Bradford looking healthy for the start of the season, he has retaken the top QB spot. This could result in a draft day fall for Jimmy.
13. Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma (-2)
Williams has been steadily been losing ground on this list, and now he has been eclipsed by Davis. However, this info should be put into perspective, considering the strength of the O-linemen as a whole.
14. Bryan Bugala, OT, Iowa (+4)
Bugala is another reason the tackles are expected to fly off the board on draft day. He continues to rise up the board and for good reason. This Iowa product will succeed at the next level.
15. Earl Thomas, S, Texas (Even)
Thomas continues to show his stregnth in this class as he, like McClain, maintains his position despite movement all around him. He should perform well in Indy, and that could push him up the board by a few spots.
16. Sergio Kindle, LB, Texas (-4)
Kindle has been supplanted on this board by his collegiate teammate. His high energy will serve him well, but we will have to see how he performs in Indy before we know how he will shake out.
17. Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee (+11)
Williams was a super riser this month, mainly resulting from a superb Senior Bowl week. He proved he can be dominant at the point-of-attack, and thus he crashes the party entering our list at 17.
18. Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan (+11)
Graham is another player who had a real big Senior Bowl week. My only knock on him is that I am not certain he will play DE in the pros. I see him as a high motor player who could be great in the right system.
19. Mike Iupati, G, Idaho (+12)
Mike Iupati is an interior lineman who holds the distinction of being the biggest riser in a month filled with high risers. This guy has all of the intangibles you want out of an interior lineman, and I think he has the potential to be every bit as valuable to a team as Alan Faneca is to the Jets.
20. Brian Price, DT, UCLA (+4)
Brian Price continue to impress me with his skills. He has good technique, and I think he is one of the reasons that the D-Tackle position is looking so deep this year.
21. CJ Spiller, RB, Clemson (Even)
I really like Spiller and all he brings to the table. My only concern is that I am not sure there are a whole lot of places he could go and be utilized to maximize his production. He is quick, and he can serve as both a RB and a return man, but I am not convinced he can withstand the punnishment absorbed by an every down back in the league.
22. Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida (-3)
Dunlap has some real upside, but the more I read about him, the more I question if he is just another talented head-case. Even if he does bring game, how many teams are going to be willing to put up with the baggage this guy brings?
23. Navarro Bowman, LB, Penn State (-9)
Bowman has raw talent and the right pedigree. Yet still, I have some reservations about how he will perform in the pros. Under the right system, I can see him flourishing, however, I think there are more wrong systems out there for him than right, and this has me concerned.
24. Taylor Mays, S, USC (-8)
Because of another week of failing to live up to expectations, Mays again finds himself falling down the chart. Fortunately for him, I see this being his low point, as I expect he will wow folks in Indy, and start climbing boards again as me move towards the draft. He is just too talented to be ranked this low, but this could ultimately spell bust.
25. Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois (Even)
This months top stocks closes as it did last month. Arrelious Benn is a very talented player who I think is going to provide some real value to his investor. Right now I think some team at the back end of the first round is facing a "buy low" situation. Now the only question for me is... who?
1. Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska (Even)
Another update and Suh maintains his rank as the top stock in the nation. This guy will makes some team (Rams?) very happy in April's draft.
2. Eric Berry, S, Tennessee (Even)
Berry is the top playmaker in any defensive backfield in the nation. He can hit, support the run, and he is a superb ball hawk. The comparisons to Ed Reed are warranted.
3. Gerald McCoy, DT, USC (Even)
McCoy is the best pass rushing DT to come from college since Warren Sapp matriculated from the U. He will be a disruption to opposing lines, and OC's around the league need to account for this guy.
4. Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State (Even)
Okung is still the best of the deep O-Line crop, but the gap has closed quickly with the recent rise of Davis. I still really like what Okung brings to the table, and I think potential investors (NFL Teams) will be very please with his ROI.
5. Joe Haden, CB, Florida (Even)
Clearly the best cover corner in this years class, Haden has shut down ability. He has excellent explosion, and can play physical football too.
6. Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State (+1)
Despite some character concerns, Bryant is no doubt the most talented receiver in this year's class. He can run, catch, and return kicks. He will be an impact player at the next level.
7. Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers (+10)
Davis continues to rocket up the board with his tremendous potential. He could soon be looking at the top spot amongst tackles if this type of rise continues.
8. Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech (-2)
As is common this time of year, sometimes we see player slide not because of what they do, but because of the rise of others. Morgan's fall is a result of the rise of Davis and Pierre-Paul closing the gap at the DE spot.
9. Jason Pierre Paul, DE, South Florida (+4)
JPP's raw skills have talent evaluators drooling. The potential ROI on this kid is off the charts, and it continues to result in him rising up the board.
10. Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama (Even)
McClain is still the best linebacker in this year's class. Despite movement all around him, McClain manages to maintain his position at the end of the top 10.
11. Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma (-2)
This month shows good news and bad news for Bradford. The bad news is he slipped two more spots on our board. The good news is that he has leaped Jimmy Clausen to reclaim the top spot at the QB position. This will likely result in Bradford being drafted higher than his 11th position would indicate.
12. Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame (-4)
Jimmy has fallen again. Despite the hype, I am beginning to feel like Clausen was overvalued. With Bradford looking healthy for the start of the season, he has retaken the top QB spot. This could result in a draft day fall for Jimmy.
13. Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma (-2)
Williams has been steadily been losing ground on this list, and now he has been eclipsed by Davis. However, this info should be put into perspective, considering the strength of the O-linemen as a whole.
14. Bryan Bugala, OT, Iowa (+4)
Bugala is another reason the tackles are expected to fly off the board on draft day. He continues to rise up the board and for good reason. This Iowa product will succeed at the next level.
15. Earl Thomas, S, Texas (Even)
Thomas continues to show his stregnth in this class as he, like McClain, maintains his position despite movement all around him. He should perform well in Indy, and that could push him up the board by a few spots.
16. Sergio Kindle, LB, Texas (-4)
Kindle has been supplanted on this board by his collegiate teammate. His high energy will serve him well, but we will have to see how he performs in Indy before we know how he will shake out.
17. Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee (+11)
Williams was a super riser this month, mainly resulting from a superb Senior Bowl week. He proved he can be dominant at the point-of-attack, and thus he crashes the party entering our list at 17.
18. Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan (+11)
Graham is another player who had a real big Senior Bowl week. My only knock on him is that I am not certain he will play DE in the pros. I see him as a high motor player who could be great in the right system.
19. Mike Iupati, G, Idaho (+12)
Mike Iupati is an interior lineman who holds the distinction of being the biggest riser in a month filled with high risers. This guy has all of the intangibles you want out of an interior lineman, and I think he has the potential to be every bit as valuable to a team as Alan Faneca is to the Jets.
20. Brian Price, DT, UCLA (+4)
Brian Price continue to impress me with his skills. He has good technique, and I think he is one of the reasons that the D-Tackle position is looking so deep this year.
21. CJ Spiller, RB, Clemson (Even)
I really like Spiller and all he brings to the table. My only concern is that I am not sure there are a whole lot of places he could go and be utilized to maximize his production. He is quick, and he can serve as both a RB and a return man, but I am not convinced he can withstand the punnishment absorbed by an every down back in the league.
22. Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida (-3)
Dunlap has some real upside, but the more I read about him, the more I question if he is just another talented head-case. Even if he does bring game, how many teams are going to be willing to put up with the baggage this guy brings?
23. Navarro Bowman, LB, Penn State (-9)
Bowman has raw talent and the right pedigree. Yet still, I have some reservations about how he will perform in the pros. Under the right system, I can see him flourishing, however, I think there are more wrong systems out there for him than right, and this has me concerned.
24. Taylor Mays, S, USC (-8)
Because of another week of failing to live up to expectations, Mays again finds himself falling down the chart. Fortunately for him, I see this being his low point, as I expect he will wow folks in Indy, and start climbing boards again as me move towards the draft. He is just too talented to be ranked this low, but this could ultimately spell bust.
25. Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois (Even)
This months top stocks closes as it did last month. Arrelious Benn is a very talented player who I think is going to provide some real value to his investor. Right now I think some team at the back end of the first round is facing a "buy low" situation. Now the only question for me is... who?
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