Knowshon Moreno a Bronco? Yet Another Mock Draft

by Sayre Bedinger on Apr 12, 2009 12:15 AM MDT

It may seem as though I'm going a bit overboard with the Broncos mock draft's, but I just cannot help it. Denver has so many different options come draft day, and with each day come new opportunities and scenarios. Here is a bit of a new twist that I think Denver fans will find quite interesting.

First Round, 12th overall: Rey Maualuga; Middle Linebacker, USC

I'm going with a switch here at the 12th pick, taking Rey Maualuga, the stud MLB out of Southern Cal. Following an impressive 2005 season in which Denver made it to the AFC Championship game, the team found itself looking for a new identity at quarterback.

Late in the 2006 season, Jay Cutler made his first start against the Seattle Seahawks. While Cutler's first start as a Bronco was an exciting photo finish that ended in defeat, quite possibly the most important aspect of that game came on the defensive side of the ball.

Former Broncos middle linebacker Al Wilson suffered a serious neck injury, ending his career essentially. Ever since then, Denver has lacked a dominant presence, and a stout defense in general.

Maualuga is a stout middle linebacker who can defend the run with the best of them, and is excellent in pass coverage. He would be the perfect building block for the new 3-4 defense, and would compliment D.J. Williams nicely on the inside.

First round, 18th overall: Knowshon Moreno; Running Back, Georgia

You are going to have to hear me out on this one, as I'm sure some of you who think the Broncos should draft defense, defense, defense are going to freak out. Denver's rush offense ranked 12th in the NFL in 2008, and they were tied for second in the league with 4.8 yards per carry--with 98 different running backs.

Okay, so I'm being a bit sarcastic there, but undoubtedly, Denver has to be in the market for a premiere running back. This year's draft features two top end backs (Knowshon Moreno, Chris Wells) who will be considered the cream of the crop.

Moreno has bulked up, and has the game-changing speed to instantly add a second dimension to Denver's offense. Correll Buckhalter, LaMont Jordan, J.J. Arrington, and Ryan Torain are fine options, but with this pick, Denver can add even more picks by trading Selvin Young and Tony Scheffler (move Peyton Hillis to h-back).

Second Round, 48th overall: Jarron Gilbert; Defensive Lineman, San Jose State

Aside from Tyson Jackson, Jarron Gilbert is hands down the best 3-4 defensive end available in this year's draft. He stands at 6'5" 290 pounds, and has the room on his frame to grow even more. He would be an excellent addition up front to Denver's defensive line, and is extremely athletic for his size.

Third Round, 79th overall: Sammie Lee Hill; Defensive Lineman, Stillman

Simply put: Sammie Lee Hill is an absolute freak of nature. This kid played defensive end at 329 pounds, and was very productive. Hill has excellent agility, long arms, and quickness. Some scouts project him as a 3-4 defensive end, but with the Broncos, he will get a shot at the nose tackle position. The only concern here is his lack of competition, but Hill dominated those he faced. He could be one of the steals of the draft.

Third Round, 84th overall: Mitch King; Defensive End, Iowa

As an Iowa fan, it does my heart good to see one of Iowa's best defensive players, if not the best defensive player going to the Denver Broncos in the third round. What King lacks in height or weight at the defensive tackle position, he more than makes up for with his production.

King has excellent quickness, and can get tremendous push in the backfield. He will be a great player for whatever team takes him, and I hope that the Broncos decide he is their guy with the second of three picks acquired from the Chicago Bears.

Fourth Round, 114th overall: Chip Vaughn; Safety, Wake Forest

Vaughn has really impressed scouts with his size, agility, and flat out speed. He is not as highly regarded as college teammates Aaron Curry or Alphonso Smith, but he has the potential to develop into a good safety and special teams player at the next level.

Fifth Round, 149th overall: Vaughn Martin; Defensive Tackle, Western Ontario

Martin is another freak of nature athletically. The 6'4" 335 pounder has reportedly run the forty yard dash in under five seconds, and bench pressed 225 pounds 33 times. He is very raw as a prospect, but is really catching scouts' eyes right now. If the Broncos want him, they may be foolish to try and wait until the sixth or seventh round to do it.

Sixth Round, 185th overall: A.Q. Shipley; Center, Penn State

I have been a huge supporter of Shipley in the draft process, and while he may not fall this far, I am optimistic that he will. He has the potential to be a starting center at the next level, and would be great value in this spot.

Seventh Round, 225th overall: Mike Reilly; Quarterback, Central Washington

Reilly is a really under the radar prospect who would be a great value this late for the Broncos. He was extremely productive at Central Washington, and would be a great mind to mold for quarterback guru Josh McDaniels.

Seventh Round, 235th overall: Patrick Turner; Wide Receiver, USC

Turner was relatively a "bust" at the college level, but is getting a second opportunity in the NFL. If he can produce in the NFL as he was expected to in college, he will be a steal this late for the Broncos. He has excellent height and bulk for the position as well.

http://www.broncosbanter.com/

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That is a

good draft. Getting Maualuga, Gilbert, and Hill would be awesome.

by PABroncofan on Apr 12, 2009 1:08 AM MDT reply actions

Thanks!

I am really starting to like Gilbert, and Hill especially. He is a beast!

by Sayre Bedinger on Apr 12, 2009 9:02 AM MDT up reply actions

my only contention

with drafting a RB with the 2nd rd pick is that looking at NE’s offense over the last couple yrs, what have their rb produced? yes kevin faulk was a reliable receiver out of the backfield, but backs like maroney basically fizzled. My question to those of you who are know more than me, is this, if we are running a NE style offense, won’t the RBs we have suffice, it seems to me the RB isnt a highlight of their offense, and the RBs we have could fill similar roles

by uclabruin34 on Apr 12, 2009 1:16 AM MDT reply actions

I agree, but...

It can’t hurt to utilize the skills of Bobby Turner in our new offense as well. He wasn’t fired along with the others, nor was Rick Dennison, the former offensive coordinator. I think some of the zone blocking will still be implemented.

by Sayre Bedinger on Apr 12, 2009 9:03 AM MDT up reply actions

I think that's a misconception the MSM feeds...

sort of like “NE doesn’t throw to their TEs.” When Corey Dillon could carry the load they used him as a feature back. But their current crop of RBs just haven’t been up to that responsibility. I doubt seriously that the drafted Moroney thinking he would only be a situational player; he just hasn’t panned out. I believe that if a feature back like Moreno were to fall to us (especially at #18) McD would at least be seriously tempted to draft him. It’s really a question of who else is still on the board and what would they bring to the table.

by SlowWhiteGuy on Apr 13, 2009 8:27 AM MDT up reply actions

UCLA - good point

To be clear – I’m perfectly open to the Moreno pick, and we’d be best to wait to 18 to decide, because we do have bigger needs. But, Sayre, you almost convinced me not to with your argument. This is why:

We did take 2nd in the league with ‘98’ :-) RBs. We have a great O line and we’ve picked up 3 FAs who fit the new scheme in addition to one great RB in Hillis (IMO) and two with some skill or potential. We can expect to place well in the league next year just as we stand. It’s actually a pretty good argument against attempting to have a ‘primary’ back. In fact, McD has been pretty clear that we won’t use a primary back so it that’s the real reason for drafting him we should go defense and pick up a good RB later if we need one.

However – if your purpose is to simply upgrade our options at RB and you think that Moreno is a good example of an unusual talent that lets us do so for a long time to come (the ‘superstar’ theory of drafting), by all means, now that we have a second 1st round pick this year and another 2 next year, it’s a good pick. I think that it is, and if he’s there at 18, it’s worth upgrading.

The issue that Maroney fizzled so far – yes, but he’s fought injury, as so many do when they move to the NFL – doesn’t really matter. Morris is the closest thing NE has to a primary back, but Faulk is a great 3rd down back, one of the best in the league and he was a 2nd rounder, as was Jordan who we snatched. Using higher picks on RBs can work, if they fit within Bobby Turner’s system. NE gets good RB production through a combination of judicious higher draft picks/FAs and UFA/7th round players who fit the profile they have. Moreno might – McD is said to be ‘high’ on him, and he might be a good 2nd pick for us at 18.

Hillis in '09

by Doc Bear on Apr 12, 2009 1:45 AM MDT reply actions

actually it was "very high" :)

Slow is smooth and smooth is fast

by Steve O' on Apr 12, 2009 7:50 AM MDT up reply actions

Excellent Analysis Bear

I agree. I think getting Moreno would legitimize our offense a little bit more. Someone comments below that he somewhat gives us an identity, and I totally agree. I am liking this pick more and more every day. However, I think we should wait until our second pick to get a back, and go after our top defensive prospect with the next one.

by Sayre Bedinger on Apr 12, 2009 9:06 AM MDT up reply actions

Thanks

I think that styg has a great point on our backup approach – Jennings out of Liberty is much like Moreno. In a year where the RBs aren’t as strong as last draft (in fact, while there’s value everywhere the entire draft seems less strong) Moreno, Brown and Jennings look like good options.

Hillis in '09

by Doc Bear on Apr 12, 2009 1:52 PM MDT up reply actions

Nice.

It’s an optimistic mock, but it would be sweet.

"The mystic chords of fandom, stretching from every trade and signing to every active account and guest all over this broadband, will yet swell the chorus of union, when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature". ~ Abraham Lincoln-ish

"The tree of victory must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of quarterbacks and coaches". ~ Thomas Jefferson-ish

by ejruiz on Apr 12, 2009 7:47 AM MDT reply actions

Thanks!

by Sayre Bedinger on Apr 12, 2009 9:06 AM MDT up reply actions

Sayre....

This is exactly what I hope happens in a few weeks…

For me it is all about IDENTITY…
Rey M… – Gives us an identity on defense, he will be the face of the defense for years. Guys like Dawkins and Champ are going to teach him how to be a pro’s pro and he will anchor the defense giving us an identity. Tyson Jackson doesn’t have the fire and he doesn’t play a natural leadership position like MLB does. Rey is a tremendous hitter who will add a ton of NASTY that Denver has been missing.

Knowshon M… – Here is thing about KM. He could become the face of the franchise in Denver. He has the same contagious fire that Rey M. has. His unique skill set, hard hard working style, team oriented attitude combined with the Denver ability to run the ball will really make him flourish into a household name. In Denver Moreno will be a Superstar, for me it’s undenyable.

Someone said not too long ago in regards to Moreno or maybe just the running game in general, if a bunch of injury riddled undrafted RB’s can average 4.8 yards a carry in Denver what can Moreno do? He will be a game changer. Opponents will look at Denver differently.

Denver’s running system has an penchant for turning out RB success. Whether it is yards per carry or total yards…over the years Denver can run the ball. If you take a guy with Moreno’s ability and add him to our system it will by dynamic. He is the perfect weapon and I could honestly see him running for about 6 yards a carry. In our scheme if you make one guy miss, which Knowshon always does, you can go long distances. Our line, our TE’s and our Receivers all block well…wow the thought of Moreno in Denver is exciting man…if we get him get ready to start screaming at your TV for a RB again!

This is a great Mock and I hope we get somewhat close to this in a few weeks. Those two players will dramatically make the Broncos a better team.

Slow is smooth and smooth is fast

by Steve O' on Apr 12, 2009 7:48 AM MDT reply actions

Thanks Steve!

I like that you used the term “identity”. It’s an excellent term for the approach I took to this mock draft. Maualuga gives us an identity on defense as well. Love the comparison.

by Sayre Bedinger on Apr 12, 2009 9:23 AM MDT up reply actions

Identity

that is an excellent Identification Steve O’!

Amnesty, the idea that you can forgive transgressions against you, gives as much to one side, as it does the other. It has the noble quality of bestowing mercy to both parties.

There is no army so powerful as an idea whose time has come.

by Jeremy Bolander on Apr 12, 2009 10:24 AM MDT up reply actions

Well said.

Identity and Superstar Potential seem to be the catch phrase for this year in the first round and I agree without hesitation. I do not think Jackson will fit that mold either.

The only exception I would note is that if E. Brown is available at 12 or especially at 18 I think he is who we need to grab. Trying to pick two out of Moreno, Rey, and Brown is next to impossible really.

Rock, paper, scissors anyone?

One last note: I’ve seen a lot of comments regarding New England’s running back by committee. Does anyone know if this is out of preference or necessity?

When NE had Dillon he was a “feature back.” I know that is only one example, but before jumping the gun on McDaniels thinking he will go RBC no matter what is a mistake (or at least that is my stance at this moment). Much of what I have read about the “new system” (thanks to MHR University) is that McDaniels will find a way to best utilize the talent we have and weigh that against whoever our opponent is that week. I have a feeling that McDaniels will find a way to get the most out of Moreno if he is a Bronco.

As I write this another advantage came to mind. Considering how short lived a feature back’s career usually is in the NFL – a limited RBC approach that “featured” Moreno could, in theory, extend Moreno’s playing career, could it not?

My roots are in Denver and my branches in Nebraska.

by Blackshirt4Broncos on Apr 12, 2009 1:45 PM MDT up reply actions

Injuries woke a lot of teams up

It wasn’t just the Broncos. In 2005, NE has to find a fullback who is a castoff, brought to the PS and brought onto sudden starting due to a dearth of RBs. Heath Evans turned out to be a find. Sammie Morris was a 7th rounder, and Green-Ellis, UFA, was thrust into a starting role this year, also due to injuries. Then you have the Broncos…

If you look over last year’s collection of RBs in the draft, which were noted as one of the best classes of RBs in several drafts, most of them spent part or all of the season on IR. Remember Mendenhall from the Steelers? Felix Jones and DMC from Arkansas (and Hillis joined them there). The list is long, and if you add starting RBs from other drafts it’s a lot longer. The reality is, if you build a RB corps, build it to fit your needs and build it deep – you’re going to need them all, sooner or later. Often, its sooner. McD mentioned in his radio interview on the FAN 104.3 that he is going to go committee. But that an mean many things.

Hillis in '09

by Doc Bear on Apr 12, 2009 2:00 PM MDT up reply actions

So does this mean RBC is out of necessity?

I’m curious to know if anyone has some insight into HOW McDaniels would incorporate a RB like Moreno if that is who we end up drafting?

As a first round pick wouldn’t the Broncos need to “feature” him?

I do see a lot of Reggie Bush in what Moreno could bring to the pro game.

My roots are in Denver and my branches in Nebraska.

by Blackshirt4Broncos on Apr 12, 2009 8:12 PM MDT up reply actions

Not really

There are lots of options, and I wouldn’t presume to know McD’s mind. But, from what he’s said, he will make use of any back in the ways that fit them best, and how he sees those we can’t really know

But there are some plain facts to deal with. It’s hard to keep a back healthy in the NFL. Rotating backs gives them a chance to recover from injuries. Fresh legs wear down defenses. He will pick a 3rd down back, based on his own formula. In NE, it was a 2nd rounder, Kevin Faulk. He will use a ‘primary’ back for about the same downs as any other. They filled in fresh legs constantly in NE and tried to exhaust defenses over the course of a game. Think of it this way – you have Moreno on 1st down, Hillis on second and Arrington, who is a great receiver and blocker if not a great runner, on third. If Denver gets the 1st down, LaMont Jordan gets the next carry, followed by Hillis and then Moreno. Buckhalter spells guys and Torain gets a few…..

The players may vary on down – I’m not trying to be specific. It’s too early for that. I’m trying to give you a picture of what it’s like to face an upgraded backfield over the course of a game. The better the players (I love Rashad Jennings, and there are others) the harder it is to face them over a game.

Hillis in '09

by Doc Bear on Apr 12, 2009 10:44 PM MDT up reply actions

Question please Bear?

I understand the importance of rest, but is there any additional risk by them not getting a chance to get into a rhythm?

By that i mean does the on-off nature of the rotating back in any way increase the risk of injury due to a cool-down effect?

Thanks

"Space is big. You just won't believe how vastly, hugely, mind- bogglingly big it is. I mean, you may think it's a long way down the road to the chemist's, but that's just peanuts to space."

"It is a mistake to think you can solve any major problems just with potatoes" Douglas Adams

by orange&blue_aussie on Apr 13, 2009 6:53 AM MDT up reply actions

I understand

You know, I think that’s a matter of coaching philosophy. In New England, you’re expected to go out, do your job, hit your slot or handle your function, 1st play, every play. No shillyshalling around. Other teams talk about the issue of the ‘rhythm’, but I think that there’s a point to be made. If you need to ‘get into a rhythm’, are you performing sub-par for the other carries/downs?

NE didn’t tolerate that, and their production was excellent. Other teams do well with other philosophies, and I’m good with that, too. As far as injuries – you are also responsible, as SWG pointed out, for hitting the bikes on the sidelines, staying warm and ready to go. If you do, the injury factor shouldn’t be involved, IMHO. I don’t know of any numbers on this, but if any stats guys can help out, hey, that’s great

Hillis in '09

by Doc Bear on Apr 13, 2009 12:03 PM MDT up reply actions

No shillyshalling around is right! Gotta love it!

My roots are in Denver and my branches in Nebraska.

by Blackshirt4Broncos on Apr 13, 2009 12:38 PM MDT up reply actions

Here's an article

By FootballOutsiders

Can Running Backs Get Into Rhythm?

by AllBroncsallday on Apr 13, 2009 2:27 PM MDT up reply actions

Thanks, ABAD

I’ve always suspected that. It seemed as if it was something that RBs said to explain lousy initial production. It never made sense to me.

“I’m much more effective when I’m winded and gasping for air”…..nah…Great find, and thank you.

Hillis in '09

by Doc Bear on Apr 13, 2009 3:57 PM MDT up reply actions

the "hot hand" debate

This issue came up in one of my decision theory classes. Research on basketball raised the question of whether a play could indeed become hot, as was widely believed.

I have serious questions about the methodology. And I do believe players can indeed become “hot.”"

This is a different question, however. Athletes do reach a higher performance level through ‘warming up,’ i.e., stretching and practicing, and it’s the cooling down effect on the muscles and the lack of feedback because of inactivity that affects their ability to maintain this high level of performance. Moreover, RBs benefit from a differential effect of fatigue. HT or S.W.G. could explain this. I believe it’s harder on the defense to maintain their speed as the game wears on. Part of the effectiveness that offenses have at running the ball late in the game is probably due to this.

by Colinski on Apr 13, 2009 4:02 PM MDT up reply actions

that's "play-er" could indeed become hot

I’m not very impressed by this article, and it’s not because I don’t believe in the research results.

The best way I can explain this is that success elicits strategic counter-moves by the defense. RBs can indeed warm up as they gain more carries but the element of surprise is missing, and the defense also gears up to stop that particular runner. This is an interactive setting rather a static one.

Moreover, the effort that the defense expends on stopping a runner creates opportunities for other offensive players. And it’s a team game, and strategy is for an entire team rather than single individual.

Football Outsiders hasn’t done a good job in this article.

by Colinski on Apr 13, 2009 4:22 PM MDT up reply actions

I think you've hit on it....

there seems to be a cumulative effect of running the ball, especially effectively running it, that demoralizes a defense as well as fatiguing it. Personally I don’t think it is as much a case of getting into a rhythm as much as just running enough to let the odds catch up to you. That’s particularly true with boom & bust backs. the ones who gain 1 yard three plays in a row then break off a 20 yard run.

by SlowWhiteGuy on Apr 13, 2009 5:34 PM MDT up reply actions

What a pitiful analysis...

there are so many flaws in the FO article I don’t know where to start. Let’s start with DVOA; they use a proprietary statistic so no one can confirm their results when they easily could have used yards gained and normalized it for each game. Then they cut off their analysis at 4 runs. That could be the first four plays of the game, four plays in the first half, one carry per quarter, or the last four plays of the game. Those just don’t seem like comparable situations. But the worst mistake is that by cutting it off a 4 carries they actually exclude the very situations where “getting into a rhythm” might actually be a factor. Workhorse backs usually rack up at least 20 carries. What he does is take the results of these backs, the ones who might show a tendency to get into a rhythm and waters their results down with many more back who don’t. It stands to reason that backs who carried only four times probably were limited in their carries for a reason.

by SlowWhiteGuy on Apr 13, 2009 5:29 PM MDT up reply actions

I agree that any player can become 'hot', of course

And, I’ll leave the gaming theory to those who are qualified. But I would take the stance that a repetitive series of fresh backs will tend to produce better results more frequently within a season. Over the course of the game, attacking with a longer series of fresh player who are trained to do things right every time they come in will tend to wear the defense down more efficiently. The same theory is commonly working in reverse for the teams that use a defensive line rotation in order to counter that approach on offense.

It’s obviously fine to use a certain player who is hot – it’s only sensible when it occurs, and at times it will. It’s also true that a varied approach for different games – i.e., using backs whose skillset best fits what you decide to do offensively that day or week – is also common sense. But the plan of constantly using whichever set of backs are best suited in a continuous series seems like only common sense. I’d be interested to hear your ideas on that.

Hillis in '09

by Doc Bear on Apr 13, 2009 10:40 PM MDT up reply actions

I agree with you Bear...

as I said in the post above. I think a “hot” RB is really more a function of an O-line that is clicking and a defense that either tires or just has the odds catch up with them. Sometime a lesser defense can hang in there by playing at a higher intensity level and guessing right. But over time and multiple carries the odds will overcome them.

by SlowWhiteGuy on Apr 13, 2009 11:16 PM MDT up reply actions

re: "gaming theory, etc.

I use the overarching term “decision theory” to refer to the area of academic study that includes economics, mathematics, psychology, etc. “Gaming theory” sounds like something a savant from Rain Man might practice, but “game theory” isn’t something normally used to calculate the odds in Vegas.

John Von Neumann (NOI-mɘn)

A Beautiful Mind (John Nash)

What I dislike about this article’s analysis is the ‘static fallacy’ that ignores the defense’s counter-measures, as if the defense has no say in the offense’s success. At best, we could say the defense may dictate (at times, and with varying degrees of success) which offensive play will be relatively successful. But this is a ‘pick your poison’ decision.

Effective RBs don’t even need to carry the ball in order to prompt counter-measures from the defense, they only need to threaten to do so (e.g., a run fake by a migraine impaired Terrell Davis in the S.B.). Nobody has figured out yet how to code for runs that were never made nor the opportunities that opened up because of T.D.‘s presence in a game. Moreover, the hot hand in basketball is usually the open one, and his is open because the defense’s double-teaming has already taken away what they consider to be the greater threat.

Game Theory hardly neglects interactive settings — normally. The “hot hand” paper (originally, on the 60s Celtics, as I recall) is an apparent exception. I can’t account for why it continues to resurface.

by Colinski on Apr 14, 2009 2:23 PM MDT up reply actions

Probably because at times

poor stats can still show accurate conclusions. ‘Decision theory’ is fine too – as I said, it’s not my field. ;-)

Hillis in '09

by Doc Bear on Apr 14, 2009 2:45 PM MDT up reply actions

Anytime!

by AllBroncsallday on Apr 14, 2009 8:43 AM MDT up reply actions

Thanks for the reply bear...

Been a busy day and only just got to this. I was mainly getting at the injury effect of the stop start but I’m glad it generated discussion!!

So the key is to keep warm on the bikes and you should be good to go? Thanks mate.

I’d love to see some stats on the injury frequency of RBBC vs franchise backs on a per carry basis. It’s nothing concrete but it just seems like the RBBC get knocked up a bit more. Maybe that’s just a function of the nature of teh player.

Thanks again!

"Space is big. You just won't believe how vastly, hugely, mind- bogglingly big it is. I mean, you may think it's a long way down the road to the chemist's, but that's just peanuts to space."

"It is a mistake to think you can solve any major problems just with potatoes" Douglas Adams

by orange&blue_aussie on Apr 14, 2009 4:46 AM MDT up reply actions

I do appreciate the perspective you provide Bear.

That rotation –

you have Moreno on 1st down, Hillis on second and Arrington, who is a great receiver and blocker if not a great runner, on third. If Denver gets the 1st down, LaMont Jordan gets the next carry, followed by Hillis and then Moreno. Buckhalter spells guys and Torain gets a few…..

seems downright nasty for lack of a better word. What appeals most to me is that this rotation would never give the defense a chance to regroup. These RB’s would just keep coming and coming, relentlessly I hope.

This scenario spawned an analogy to the UFC – I am not a huge fan, but follow it here and there – where there is a MMA fighter named Clay “The Carpenter” Guida. This guy is undersized for the most part, but is absolutely relentless. He just keeps coming and attacking and never gives his opponent a chance to get a breathe in. Eventually, if he doesn’t knock his opponent out he just wears them down.

If the Bronco RB’s can reach that “relentless” level I will be stoked.

However, I still have this lingering thought that suggests drafting a RB in the first needs to be utilized in more ways than a specialist. As I understand it, McDaniels is not very fond of split back formations, but if we get Moreno talk about a Lightening and Thunder duo! Just let the defense chase Moreno around the field and let Hillis pound the rock right at them. Sounds good if you ask me!

All in all I am gaining confidence in this McDaniels guy and am happy to see the Broncos give the man some tools to work with!

My roots are in Denver and my branches in Nebraska.

by Blackshirt4Broncos on Apr 13, 2009 12:36 PM MDT up reply actions

As I understand it, McDaniels is not very fond of split back formations

You’re right – and when they use them, it’s FB and a RB, pretty basic. Look to your own metaphor – they aren’t looking for a knockout punch. They want to exhaust people – on the drive, the half, the game. Jennings would work. The kid from CU would work. Moreno would work.

Look for Part 4 – Conclusions tomorrow and let me know how your thinking goes then!

Hillis in '09

by Doc Bear on Apr 13, 2009 12:50 PM MDT up reply actions

Question about Torrain?

Apparently Coach Turner was pretty high on Torrain last year. Where can I get info on him other than the Bronco’s site and here@ MHR? It seems to my recollection that he (the Train) and Moreno are somewhat similar, at least from what I remember from last year. Can anybody help me out so I can do some research? Thanks for any help!!!

by Pmac54 on Apr 13, 2009 8:21 PM MDT up reply actions

Nice job Sayre...

I think the liklihood of us getting Moreno is higher than going after a QB.
Jedi and Shanny have COMPLETELY different mindsets. Shanny goes after system RB’s and Jedi after system QB’s.
I honestly think that Knowshon is a possibility.
Here’s a dark horse for QB: Nate Davis of Ball State. Played out of spread offense in shot gun a lot. Very athleteic with good pocket presence and good arm. Perfect fit, at low cost as his stock has been plummeting due to a bad game in his lat Bowl game.
Rec’d my man. Nice job!

Those that cant coach, compete!
Failing to plan is planning to fail.

by boydy2669 on Apr 12, 2009 8:11 AM MDT reply actions

Thanks!

I am beginning to love Knowshon in round one. It actually seems like a perfect fit to me. As far as Nate Davis, I wouldn’t mind a late round flyer, I just don’t know about how he would handle a complicated offense such as this one. He does have all the physical tools!

by Sayre Bedinger on Apr 12, 2009 9:36 AM MDT up reply actions

wow boydy

i’m just looking at it from a checkbook…and…wow…its way hard for me to go along with a runningback so high…cuz…if we play him as much as we pay him…he won’t last very long…and if we only use him every few plays so we can save him…we are way overpaying…i wish i was smart enough to figure it all out

MHR...and proud of it!

by MHRsGirl on Apr 14, 2009 7:55 PM MDT up reply actions

Hey MHR's Girl...

I still think KM would be used a tonne, but not as that pounder that runs 30 times a game. He has a bigger skill set. i still think he will get around 20 touches a game, but some will be on screens, split wide, as running plays….he just brings a lot of looks, and he is very good in all facets of play….including blocking.
I see him as such a good fit for our team, and what Jedi wants to do.
Nice hearing from you.

Those that cant coach, compete!
Failing to plan is planning to fail.
All I want is 53 Rod Smiths. Is that asking too much????

by boydy2669 on Apr 14, 2009 8:28 PM MDT up reply actions

One more comment: We get Turner in the 7th will be the steal of the draft!!!!

Those that cant coach, compete!
Failing to plan is planning to fail.

by boydy2669 on Apr 12, 2009 8:12 AM MDT reply actions

This is a very good mock....

Thanks for the hard work. Here are my thoughts.

1. I can live with Rey and Moreno both taken in the first round. Their availability is very plausible. However, I think both may be available at #18, therefore it would be a reach to take one of them at #12. Not much value with our #12 pick if that is the case. To me Moreno would be fine if the following players are off the board: Brown, Jackson, Maclin, and Ayers.

2. I would have like to see WR addressed earlier than the seventh round. I also would have liked to see OL addressed, other than the center position. We are one injury away, on our offensive line, to having major holes there.

3. It’s cool how you go balls out in addressing our D-line. This is fine with me, as long as we aren’t passing up players that are much better.

As I said, I can live with this draft.

by swg777 on Apr 12, 2009 8:18 AM MDT reply actions

Thanks!

I am not sure Maualuga is a reach at 12, simply because he may be the highest rated player available on our board at that time (defensively). I think Jackson will be off the board by 18, as well as Maclin and possibly Brown, but I wouldn’t draft Ayers in the first round. He has had one decent year in college and people are giving him the Vernon Gholston treatment.

WR should be addressed earlier I think too, but I couldn’t pass on Chip Vaughn in the fourth. Then the WR talent drops off a bit.

I love the idea of Denver taking four d-lineman, it would be absolutely sweet. That phase of our defense would go from bad to one of the most young and talented in the league.

by Sayre Bedinger on Apr 12, 2009 9:39 AM MDT up reply actions

One problem.

I think Moala will still be available by the 3rd and I think we should get him over Hill. Other than that really good…

"Hey Raiders fans!!! If you leave now you can beat traffic!"
-Rod Smith

by GarretBarnes on Apr 12, 2009 8:31 AM MDT reply actions

Thanks Garret!

If we did go after Gilbert in round two, adding another DE would be somewhat odd before going after a nose. I like Moala, and I think he would look good in a Denver uniform, but If we can get Hill where we did here I’d be ecstatic. Plus, we have a pick five picks later, and if they so chose to take Moala over King there, I wouldn’t complain.

by Sayre Bedinger on Apr 12, 2009 9:40 AM MDT up reply actions

nice post and i love the mock!

Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.

by Tim Lynch on Apr 12, 2009 9:29 AM MDT reply actions

Thanks a lot!

by Sayre Bedinger on Apr 12, 2009 9:41 AM MDT up reply actions

MMMOOOOOOORRRRRREEEEEENNNNNOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!

MORE-YES!!!!

I wants the Moreno. I really like this mock. I think the fifth might be a little early for Martin and I don’t think Shipley will last to the sixth, but other than that I like all the picks. I would be very happy with this draft.

I seem to have lost my future self.

by papigrande on Apr 12, 2009 11:57 AM MDT reply actions

Thanks!

I’m really coming around to the idea of Moreno in round one, and I think Martin is a guy who will be in high demand on the second day. If the Broncos want him, they will have to go out and get him!

by Sayre Bedinger on Apr 12, 2009 1:49 PM MDT up reply actions

i think i might get a mock together

in the next few days…I really like yours although I still believe Hillis can be an amazing RB given the chance but Moreno is an awesome RB in his own right

Basesball is just a game-RIP Nick Adenhart

by robbo650 on Apr 12, 2009 12:03 PM MDT reply actions

Nice mock!

I would be happy with Rey and Knowshon in the 1st. I think the leadership/star aspects of their game are very good points. Its probably just personal bias, but I haven’t been able to get excited about Tyson Jackson. He is a run stuffer too, and I think that we really need a pass rusher. I am also worried about SD getting Rey if we pass on him at #12. I think that it was swg77 who pointed out what do we do if Crabtree falls… I don’t think Denver will select as many DTs as you have. I could see two NTs, but even that might be a stretch. If Denver keeps a similar number of D-lineman as NE last year, they will only have 2 NTs and 4 DTs on the 53 man roster. We could keep more, but it really makes things difficult for the rest of the roster. I actually think we will keep more that 2 and 4. I assume that Fields will make the team. So that means an NT will be competing with Parker for the 2nd spot (hopefully the starting job if he is good enough). At DT, we have a long list of candidates: Thomas, Peterson, Powell, Crowder and Clemons, McBean and Askew. If we only keep 4 and we draft 2, they will have to compete with either Powell, Crowder, Clemons, McBean and Askew for two slots. We haven’t seen anything of Powell yet, but my guess is that he is a keeper. So, really we need one very good draft pick to compete for the 4th spot, especially a pass rusher like Gilbert. Basically, I am thinking that neither Crowder nor Clemons makes the team this year, especially if we take a DT with a high draft pick. If we keep 5 DTs then maybe Crowder stays. While it is plausible Gilbert will be there in the 2nd, I am worried that he won’t. I have seen at least one mock that has him going to the Titans in the 1st round. If we don’t take Tyson in the 1st or Gilbert in the 2nd, then that elite DT may have to wait until next year. Which may be OK, considering that we have some serviceable players who we can probably get by with this year. Just a few thoughts on the DT situation. Otherwise, I really like the mock.

by Orange Crush II on Apr 12, 2009 12:12 PM MDT reply actions

Thanks Crush!

When all is said and done, the only holdovers from last year will be Thomas, Powell, Peterson, and Crowder. Crowder will be kept as a LB or traded/released. He has been a disappointment, but I’d like to see him get a chace at OLB.

That being said, drafting four d-lineman would be about the right amount to me, maybe three. I love both Hill and Martin, and think that if we can get Gilbert we would have it made. I just love King’s ability to get into the backfield also.

by Sayre Bedinger on Apr 12, 2009 1:54 PM MDT up reply actions

Awesome post

rec’ed

by CombatChuk on Apr 12, 2009 7:27 PM MDT reply actions

Thanks!

by Sayre Bedinger on Apr 12, 2009 8:04 PM MDT up reply actions

Amazing mock

I love this mock, I love Moreno, and just hope he’s there at 18

by stedtfeld on Apr 12, 2009 9:55 PM MDT reply actions

I am worried that Rey Rey isn't worth, maybe not even close, the 12th pick.

Alls i have heard mayock, and a couple other good minds on NFL network is that he cant play three downs. He constantly talks about how if a linebacker cant play three downs he isn’t worth a first round pick. Also mentions that this is a philosphy the patriots believe in. So even if Rey is a little better on third down than given credit for isn’t kinda scetchy to take him at 12.

by BryGoodland on Apr 13, 2009 11:12 AM MDT reply actions

Hahaha Your funny

First of all Rey Maualuaga is not great in coverage. Rey is average at best in coverage. Yes he is a great run stuffer but he also overruns a lot of plays and often looks lost. I think he teammates at USC last year made him look better then he really is.

the 3rd round is way to early for Sammie Lee Hill, he is projected by most as a 4th-6th round pick. Yes he has the physical tools but he didn’t play against elite programs in college. He has too many flaws to be considered in the third.

The rest of your draft is ok. I would happily take Moreno at 18 however I do not think he will last. If we want Moreno I think we have to take him at 12. I would love to see Gilbert fall to us at 48. He has a lot of upside and would step in and start day one. Also if Turner falls to us in the 7th it would be a steal.

by gnarlybroncodude on Apr 13, 2009 12:12 PM MDT reply actions