Mock 2.0
by Alex on Apr 6, 2010 8:03 AM MDT
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PrintWhat are our needs? Well, let's not make this complicated. Here they are..
1. Offensive line upgrades, starters and depth.
2. Linebackers.
3. Depth.
First Round, Pick #11
Maurkice Pouncey, OC, Florida - 6'5, 304
There's no reason to detail this guy, you know who he is. He will be expected to make immediate impact.
Second Round, Pick #45
Sean Weatherspoon, ILB, Missouri - 6'1, 239
Registering over 400 in college, Weatherspoon is an absolute tackling machine. He's a jack of all trades and has no major weaknesses in his game. He can blitz, run-thump, and he's much better in coverage than McCalin. He's set to go off the board late 21st/early 2nd, so we may have to make a move to go up and get him. Taking Pouncey in the first is likely done after we get paid to move back a little, so whatever this move costs should be of no consequence. Weatherspoon would be an immediate upgrade from what we have and would not need to come off the field on 3rd downs.
CBS Draft Scout:
Read & React: Good instincts and reaction speed -- knows the game and plays very fast. Reads plays quickly. Easily identifies screen and bootleg and takes away the open check-down receiver in the flat. A bit overzealous against the run. Will take false steps, bite on play-action and run past the ball in the backfield.
Run defense: Very good chase defender who comes downhill in a hurry, especially if the play goes east-west. Scrapes down the line and finds the opening to attack the running back. Physical but tries to avoid linemen in traffic, picking his way through to the ball. Spies the quarterback to prevent long runs on scrambles, and will beat them to the corner from the middle. Usually takes the right chase angle, but is quick enough to recover if the ballcarrier cuts back. Will take on fullback and lineman blocks inside, but does not have the size or punch needed to regularly disengage. Also has troubles getting off run blocks from larger receivers.
Pass defense: Recognizes routes in zone coverage, and is quick enough to lay a lick on receivers coming into his area. Gets deep in his drop and covers a lot of ground. Good enough change-of-direction agility in space to stick with receivers on the edge and run with backs and tight ends over the middle. Runs down the seam with almost any receiver. Natural athlete with very good hand-eye coordination for the interception or pass breakup. Uses quickness and hands to avoid cut blocks by receivers in space. Will face matchup difficulties against taller, faster tight ends at the next level.
Tackling: Wraps up elusive ballcarriers in space. Can line them up for the explosive tackle if given the chance. Pounds receivers coming over the middle, using his shoulder to lay them out. Will overpursue plays or hit a hole before the runner has reached it, opening a cutback lane. Relies on hitting with his shoulder, which will be an issue at the next level. Undisciplined breaking down in space, allowing elusive runners to go around him.
Pass Rush/Blitz: Effective blitzer who finds a hole and explodes through it. Quick enough to elude fullbacks in the hole to get to the quarterback. Can close quickly on quarterbacks and puts on major hits. Works through blocks from tight ends on the edge and linemen or running backs inside to rush the passer. Times jumps to knock down passes on his way to the quarterback.
Intangibles: Upbeat, infectious attitude on the practice field translates as the team's emotional leader.
Third Round, Pick #80
John Jerry, OT/OG, Mississippi - 6'6, 328
This name has been floated around MHR quite often, so I'll not go into too much detail. He played last season at 350-360lbs. His weight will need to be maintained at the current level of 325-330 to keep him at prime effectiveness late in games and late in the season. He will push for a starting position at guard and play backup to Ryan Harris. He's got a very high probability of being an impact guard by 2011 at the latest.
Fourth Round, Pick # 114
Riley Cooper, WR, Florida - 6'4, 222
I see this kid as something of a late bloomer. He was a two sport athlete in college, but turned down an offer from the Texas Rangers and is now able to focus on football. He's a big possesion receiver in the mold of Brandon Marshall. In my mind, there's nothing but upside with this pick.
CBS Draft Scout:
Release: Good use of hands and lateral agility to gain a free release against man coverage. Isn't an explosive runner out of his stance, and relies more on his physicality, route-running and size advantage to get open against man coverage. Normal acceleration downfield, but is faster than he looks and can eat up the cushion.
Hands: Generally reliable receiver who typically looks the ball in and secures it before moving upfield. Allows too many passes into his chest, especially on comebacks. Typically extends and plucks the ball out of the air. Improved his concentration as a senior in catching passes in traffic. Doesn't back down from the physical challenge of jump-ball situations. Times his leaps well and has an obvious size advantage. Good body control to contort to the poorly thrown pass. Can snatch the ball out of the air and keep his feet in bounds to make the spectacular reception. Has improved his vision in tracking balls over his shoulder, but has inconsistent in this area over his career.
Route running: Deceptive straight-line speed to get over the top. Moderate burst out of his breaks to create separation. Good use of hands and body lean to create space.
After the catch: Deceptive speed to run away from defenders when he's hit in stride, but lacks the instant acceleration or agility to be a consistent threat to gain much yardage after the catch.
Blocking: Good size, strength and physicality to help his teammates as a downfield blocker. Improved as a blocker in 2009, but isn't as consistent as you'd like for a player of his size. Provides a good initial pop, but has to sustain better.
Intangibles: Two-sport athlete at Florida and was drafted in the 25th round of the 2009 MLB draft by the Texas Rangers. Reportedly signed a contract for $250,000, though he elected to play his senior season and wants to pursue a football career. Charged in February of 2009 with the misdemeanor of resisting an officer and failure to comply with police for not getting out of the way of a moving car upon police orders. The case was dismissed.
Fourth Round (Tony Scheffler Trade)
Sam Young, Notre Dame, OT - 6'8, 316
NFL Draft Scout:
Great things were expected from the Parade All-American from Florida when he came to South Bend, but being the first true freshman ever to start on Notre Dame's offensive line opening weekend was truly a fine accomplishment (first-year players were eligible to play immediately starting in 1972).
All Young has done since is start every game for the Irish. He lined up at right tackle for the first 16 games, then moved to left tackle for 10 contests in 2007 before moving back to the right side for the last two seasons. In 2009, Young helped the Irish become one of the most prolific offenses in the country, rolling up more than 450 yards per game.
Though not considered one of the more athletic tackles in the 2010 draft, Young's size, strength and pedigree are likely to land him a spot in the middle rounds and give him the potential to have a long NFL career.
Sixth Round, Pick # 184
Danny Batten, DE-OLB, South Dakota State - 6'3, 246
Listed as one of his ten candidates for the annual "Wes Welker Award" (late round prospect making impact), Sports Illustrated's Don Banks says this about him:
Batten has built momentum throughout the pre-draft scouting season, turning in a good week at the Texas versus the Nation all-star game in February and building on that with an impressive pro day workout for scouts last week. He projects to outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense, but at 6-3, 246, he has room to grow into a 4-3 edge-rushing defensive end role as well.
Seventh Round, Pick # 220:
Deji Karim, RB, Southern Illinois - 5'9, 209lbs
Set to get picked in the seventh round, Deji runs a 4.40 40 and is being taken to add depth behind Knowshon, Buckhalter, and Arrington. He should also contribute as a special teamer.
OVERVIEW:
After drafting three offensive linemen and two linebackers, there will be zero tough cuts to make. The only guys that will need cut are those that don't matter; guys like Jarvis Moss, Nick Griesen, Tyler Polumbus, and Gorin. By not drafting more defensive linemen, we won't have to cut anymore of the 236 linemen already on the roster than we already had to.
This is a Fan-Created Comment on MileHighReport.com. The opinion here is not necessarily shared by the editorial staff of MHR
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if weatherspoon drops to 45
I’d go nuts.
by black_knight101 on Apr 6, 2010 8:21 AM MDT reply actions 1 recs
agreed, no way he gets thru 44 times.
one can dream tho.
by Orange and Blue on Apr 6, 2010 8:37 AM MDT up reply actions
Agree, also doubtful Jerry lasts till third round
"Me fail english, that unpossible" - Ralph Wiggum
"Duffman is thrusting in the direction of the problem" - Duffman
"Good, bad, I'm the guy with the gun" - Ash from Army of Darkness
"H.I., you're young and you got your health, what you want with a job?" - Evelle from Raising Arizona
"It happens sometimes. People just explode. Natural causes." - Agent Rogersz from Repoman
HOW about a substitute?
CBS has Weatherspoon at #25 so I understand the critique. My question is — who would you take instead?
I could see this type of pick making sense, so here’s some alternatives: Jerry Hughes (#28*), Daryl Washington (#40*), Koa Misi (#53), Ricky Sapp (#58).
The question is — what do we want?
I don’t think the LB idea is a bad one but — IMO — the point of going in this direction at this point would be to add an important attribute to our defense. Weatherspoon is a good choice — in part — because he offers speed and athleticism. I see him having value as a pass coverer and secondarily as a pass rusher. And his overall abilities allow him to be a 3-down player. However, I don’t see him in the ILB role that many see him in, despite the Senior Bowl experiment. He has the strength to switch (to R-ILB i.e., Jack) but doesn’t play like one so, according to reports, so an appropriate use might be in underneath zone on 3rd downs at ILB.
Odd things happen in the draft so it’s not out of question that Weatherspoon could drop (albeit unlikely this much), the greater question is whether we’re trying to add an OLB (which he really is) or an ILB. Donald Butler is often picked here (or around here) because he actually plays both ILB and OLB, and even though Weatherspoon is ranked higher Butler may be a far better choice if one is seeking an ILB.
Picks are often contingent so I can’t suggest alternatives without unraveling our entire draft. Given this caveat and the CBS Big Board, picks such as Jimmy Graham (TE/ #50), Brandon Ghee (CB/ #49), Damien Williams (WR/ #54) and Arrelious Benn (WR/ #55) come to mind, but selecting them might necessitate changing later picks.
A quick list of others: Vladimer Ducasse (OG/ #59), Lamar Houston (DT/ #52), Dexter McCluster (WR/ #56), Jon Asomoah (OG/ #61), Toby Gerhart (RB/ #63), Ben Tate (RB/ #65), and the list goes on.
no goats, no glory.
Sorry for such a wordy reply, my fingers wouldn't stop -)
It would appear you’ve dialed in on my thought process very well, as that’s a lot of great options you gave. I’ll start by saying the Weatherspoon pick is, in fact, intended to be an upgrade on the inside. In my mind, he possesses the single greatest characteristic to being effective on the inside: Instincts.
Additionally, Weatherspoon covers better than any linebacker we have and as you pointed out, he’s also a terrific (and perhaps somewhat underrated) pass rusher. I think the question mark over his head, as it relates to his ability to move inside, is his size and strength. Now I very rarely mention the “Underwear Olympics” when discussing a draft prospect, but in this case, I think it bears mentioning that he put up a whopping 34 reps. Granted, it was performed on a weight bench rather than a football field, but combine that with what we’ve seen in his game day performances, and I think it points to a football player that’s certainly strong enough to play whack-a-mole in the middle. P.S. 400 tackles is a lot!
I’m not sure how convincing my thoughts come across as to his moving inside, but I’ve seen a lot of his play, and IMO he seems to have what it takes to quarterback the middle of our defense. He’s got the instincts required, hits everything that moves, he’s a sure tackler, great coverage guy, he’s got sideline to sideline range, and he even brings a super solid pass-rushing skill set to the table.
Prior to Andra Davis getting released, I wrote a post detailing why I thought Andra was the weak link and why he should be released. The basic theory was that he was a liability in one phase (coverage), and that it made our entire defense more predictable. Our defense is predicated on its aggression and disguise. But part of our ability to disguise was gone when a situational player was on the field. With Weatherspoon, the problem is gone. Nobody knows if this guy is going to drop back, stay home, or get after the quarterback. He’s the perfect fit for us because he’s got the strength, speed and instincts to do it all and keep an offense guessing. That opens our playbook and gives Wink the final piece to a versatile and unpredictable defense.
The fact is, Weatherspoon would probably be fine on the inside or outside, IMO, but he serves us best on the inside. As to the other part of your other question, I see him taking over much of DJ’s coverage responsibilities.
Moving on, if Weatherspoon were gone before we could trade up to get him, it would drastically change the landscape of this mock (as you suggested). I can’t really choose between the picks you listed, as it would basically turn into a new mock. But as I mentioned in the beginning, we’re thinking along the same lines of players.
Specifically to the ILB’s, if he can’t do it all, we need to spend the pick elsewhere. It’s a waste of a pick, IMO, to draft a situational guy in the middle. I’d rather draft an edge rusher (that can cover), let Haggan show us what he can do in the middle, and upgrade next year if need be. For the sake of clarity, I see Butler as the only other real option on the inside (if available in the 3rd). I would also take Sergio Kindle as a 2nd round option on the outside (if he drops out of the 1st like some mocks have him doing) if Weatherspoon were gone.
Random note: I’m a fan of McCluster as a change of pace back and a return guy, but that was when he was projected to go in like the 3rd/4th, not in the 2nd. I can’t see the justification in spending a 2nd round pick on a situational player that’ll touch the ball less than once per series. Maybe in another year.
Jimmy Graham is another guy that I’ve had an eye for, and we could use a TE. But again, I can’t see it in the 2nd round. He doesn’t have much of a shot to immediately impact our team, not as much as a guy like Ducasse does. I know it’s somewhat against conventional theory to expect immediate impact, but I think that a "reloading team" needs to always use its first picks on its biggest weaknesses to at least put itself in position to TRY and make immediate impact.
The wide receivers you chose are some of the best in the draft. I’m also a fan of Golden Tate. If a WR were taken in the 2nd (with Marshall on the roster), I’d want him to be returning kicks immediately, and eventually stretching the field away from Marshall and our run game. My pick of Cooper here in the fourth was more a product of him being my favorite available, but with Marshall on the roster, we would really want more of a field stretcher. Without him, I’d say Cooper is a perfect mid-round choice.
Wow, that’s a book lol Thanks for your comments!
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
Re; Weatherspoon -- square peg?
But is he a Ted? I don’t think you’ll find much disagreement over the idea of adding a player with his talents, but is he a good fit? Weatherspoon’s best fit is a OLB43 but he has potential as a R-ILB, which is where DJ is playing. Instead of adding a good fit, it seems we’re adding yet another out-of-place player.
I doubt you’d find much disagreement if you polled people over whether Larsen is a good fit at Ted, which couldn’t be said of Weatherspoon. The difference between two is more temperamental than physical, and observers can see it when they play. A good Ted relishes shedding the blocks of opposing Guards rather avoiding them. Neither DJ nor Weathespoon appear to be in this mold. It’s not merely a question of physical strength or speed but a willingness to take on offensive lineman.
One of traits of many of the finest NFL organizations is that they’re very specific about specifications for positions. McDaniels has backed away this somewhat by insisting that players make their positions, but it’s hard to see how we can get around the numbers. It’s in the 3-4 math. There are more blockers than defensive players in the middle. One of the ILBs needs to be a true run stopper. We had one of those in Davis but he offered little in pass defense. The point in replacing him is to find another run stopper who lacks the pass defense deficits. Weatherspoon offers a lot but he doesn’t appear to meet the specifications for Ted. Moreover, he’s not in the mold of OLB34.
I think the toughest idea to accept is to refrain. Solutions that don’t fix the problem become obstacles to later fixes. Weatherspoon’s best use for us might be as a replacement for DJ — but I don’t know if that helps much. I think there are players in this draft who are good fits but they’re not as highly rated. The best solution may be to save the pick and roster spot for solutions to other problems.
no goats, no glory.
Good points, truly
I may have seen your take before, but what would you think of McClain (Chrone’s Disease completely out of the equation)? He’s the best run-thumper in the draft. He’s bigger, better instincts, and perhaps better football smarts. He’s not as good in coverage, IMO, but he’s no liability either.
Replacing DJ Williams is not an option to me right now, but your point is taken that both he and Weatherspoon have much the same skill set and are nearly identical in size. We will need to place an emphasis on run stopping, and a minor on pass coverage, for any high resource spent on ILB. With Weatherspoon’s already surprising power and strength, do you think adding ten pounds would be a possibility? If he’s got the frame to support it, wouldn’t that help his ability to negotiate blockers?
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
re: McClain
I wonder about the value of an ILB at #1 but McClain’s greatest virtue is his football IQ, which has to appeal to McDaniels. He is capable at pass defense and showed a knack for interceptions/pass defense in college. I don’t think it’s a strength for him in the NFL though. He’s not my favorite at this point, however, but he still looks like a safe choice.
I still like Trent Williams even though Harris is expected to make a full recovery, but his stock is so high now that we probably don’t have a good chance at drafting him. I also like Earl Thomas, who’s stock has recently been rising. Haden might still work (if available) but I feel better about Thomas. I also like Jason Pierre-Paul and Derrick Morgan, with the edge to Morgan for his overall ability. I’d even strongly consider Brandon Graham, although this moves in the direction of a trade scenario. Offensive linemen are still a priority but they also likely come under the trade scenario.
I’m not willing to spend excessively at ILB so I probably wouldn’t go ILB in the first two rounds. Donald Butler would be an acceptable choice in the 3rd and so would some others around the 4th/5th, such as Chaney. I’d be looking to fill OLB first. I see adding an OLB as more important, and I’d turn the situational comment on it’s head — situational contributers are what we need as far as draftees. Trent Williams could take over the starting LG position but most rookies are situational starters and should be unless there’s a vacant starter position.
Most of the choices in this MOCK are very good, which is why I commented on this topic. One change I’d make is to add a ‘bigger’ back around the 3rd/4th, such as Gerhart, Tate or Hardesty.
The Bubble Player heuristic works pretty well for draft planning purposes. For example — Jarvis Moss (OLB) is a bubble player so that spot should be targeted. Some positions can be viewed as upgrade candidates, too, but it’s fairly easy to figure out which ones they are, and there’s no need to slavishly follow the criteria. For instance, Brandon Marshall isn’t a bubble player but WR is an obvious draft target despite that. Riley Cooper is an excellent choice because he replaces the possession WR need/ or desired upgrade.
POSITIONS
QB: Brandstater on the bubble — low priority
RB: ‘big’ back vacant. A general need for playmakers.
FB: see above, UDFA candidate if big back is unfilled
WR: possession WR desired but somewhat contingent on Marshall situation; speed/playmaker also desired. Bubble player could be Lloyd or McKinley, or even Stokley (although Royal is projected replacement).
TE: Scheffler is on the bubble. I see replacements as possibly fitting into the ‘power forward’ model.
OT: Polumbus and Batiste on the bubble. Backup/ future starter needed.
OG: LG vacant. Depth needed.
OC: Vacant. Depth needed.
DE: Depth desired. Pass rushing DEs warrant consideration.
NT: Depth needed. Baker on the bubble.
L-OLB: Reid on the bubble. Depth and situational pass rusher needed.
L-ILB: Vacant with Haggan named as heir apparent. Depth/ future starter material desired.
R-ILB: Woodyard may be on bubble. Low priority.
R-OLB: Moss on bubble. Pass rusher needed.
FS/SS: Barrett may be on bubble.
CB: Depth needed, numbers (4) are low. The 5th CB is vacant (most teams have one).
Re: Weatherspoon adding weight. It’s not about weight; it’s about his style of play. I don’t presume to know everything about him but reports place him in the Will 4-3 mold.
BTW — Trent Williams can also play Center according to Charles Davis of the NFL Channel.
no goats, no glory.
CB: I count five. Champ, Goody, Jones, Phonz, and Carter (bubble).
DL (all): Bannan, McBean, Thomas
J-Will, Fields, Baker
Green, Holliday, PDX
I added Holliday, because I’m not convinced he’s going anywhere. He had a visit with Seattle a couple weeks ago and is testing the market, but he could easily come back. He was our best pass rusher other than Doom and very solid against the run. Him rotating in with Green would make for a solid left side.
In either event, I count it as nine with a target of six, maybe seven. PDX is likely the first to go. For this purpose, we’ll say Holliday is out. Baker and Thomas are both on the bubble, so let’s say Baker gets cut and Thomas gets another year.
Nose Tackle Rotation/Depth:
J-Will, Fields, Bannan
Defensive Guard Rotation/Depth:
Bannan, Fields, Thomas
Green, McBean
Fields and Bannan are doubled up above simply indicating they can cover either positions. With the cuts I suggested, we’ve got six players and room for no more than one addition. Pass rushing LDG would be my target if we did in fact choose to add another lineman. But again, Holliday would be that guy if we can resign him. Thoughts?
No matter how we flip it, we’re going to need to get younger on the line. Guys like Fields, McBean, and Thomas will likely be on the bubble next year. I envision 2 or even 3 defensive linemen drafted next year, depending on whether we draft one of them this year.
I wouldn’t have a problem drafting Trent Williams at #11, provided the boys signing the checks don’t have a problem with it. He would make a fantastic guard/backup RT (perhaps OC). It’s likely that he’ll even push Harris for the starting spot eventually. There may be a concern, though, that when Harris’ contract comes up we’ll be forced to make the decision as to whether we want to pay three linemen “tackle money”. Drafting Trent Williams could mean eventually saying goodbye to Harris, which essentially wastes a pick.
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
re: Carter
Carter isn’t listed on the roster. None of the PS is currently listed. He was elevated as a result of an injury to McBath (if I recall correctly) and his long-term status is questionable. Like some of the other PS members, he may earn an invitation to camp. I expect they’ll be reviewing the numbers after the draft and UDFA signings, when the numbers of players needed will be more clear.
We went into last season with 5 Safeties and 4 CBs. J M F Williams was cut right before Law was signed. Carter was promoted to the active squad after McBath’s injury and our numbers looked more normal but there still were 10 DBs with Moulton’s re-signing.
Re: Tackle money. The same problem exist for the other positions, and they normally make less than OTs. However, Williams would be an OG who derives part of his value as the backup OT. It’s hard to tell what the values are when comparing OG v. ILB v. CB (or whatever position we pick). The 11th pick from last year (Maybin) signed for 5 million (25 for 5) and we’d pay slightly more than that.
2007 averages
Quarterback: 5.15
Running back: 3.27
Offensive tackle: 3.17
Wide receiver: 2.97
Cornerback: 2.75
Defensive end: 2.54
Middle linebacker: 2.30
Defensive tackle: 2.06
Offensive guard: 1.94
Outside linebacker: 1.81
Tight end: 1.79
Center: 1.65
Free safety: 1.39
Strong safety: 1.27
Kicker: 1.23
Fullback: 0.84
Punter: 0.69
ILBs aren’t MLBs so there’s a slight comparison problem but the situation appears to have evened out even more with vet OGs rising in salary. And Williams would be partly an OT but mostly an OT so it’s hard to figure out how to measure his salary. It’s a fairly small difference however you look at it.
I’ll reply to your other comments in another post.
no goats, no glory.
Makes sense
It looks like OT’s make about 50% more than OG’s. If Williams shows an ability to play effective OT in Ryan Harris’ stead this year, we wold have a decision to make. Ryan Harris would want FMV or what his performance at right tackle has been. He’s in his last contract year and other teams would give him what he’s asking for. So for these purposes, we’ll say that we extend him.
So, if Harris is playing tackle for us in 2011, then that means we basically took a starting guard with our 11th overall pick in 2010 (Trent Williams). If Harris gets overtaken at the tackle position, we’ll be paying him tackle money (50% more) to play guard. If we instead decide to let Harris walk away, then we’ll have effectively spent a #11 overall pick to replace a player that didn’t need to be replaced (wasted pick).
Depending on the new CBA, it should be noted that Harris could be restricted or unrestricted next year, so we could perhaps get some compensation for letting him go, or we could possibly tender him to buy another year. In the end, though, it seems like a self-made problem down the road if we were to draft an OT at #11.
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
by Alex on Apr 8, 2010 8:20 AM MDT up reply actions 1 recs
A FINAL COMMENT
I’m not exactly sure why T Will becomes the cause of conflict just because he’s a capable backup. The point was to use him as a starting OG. Considering we lack the LG and OC starters from last year (Wiegmann & Hamilton) it’s rather strange to be considering restocking this area as a threat to one of the remaining starters at OT.
T Will could be a little too busy manning his own position to become a threat to take over another player’s. And who would fill OG if he did?
My fear is that he may not be good enough — at least in the early going. If he’s actually good enough to threaten to take over Harris’ job then we’ve drafted very, very well.
It’s a little silly to be talking about knocking off established starters at a point when we’ve yet to put together five quality starters. We’re still at the point of trying to find enough starters; competition to knock off established starters is an extravagance we can’t begin to afford yet.
If Harris views bringing in a backup/ starter-grade player as a threat then maybe it is time for him to leave — but I don’t think he does. However, any player who sees efforts to improve the team as a threat to his position is the type of player we need to get rid of. If you can’t accept a little competition then you’re not the kind of player we need.
no goats, no glory.
re: DL
I thought the one change they could make would be to add one DL and drop one LB (Moss, probably), which would only affect their inactive list compared to last year. We’d still have 8 LBs with a new one replacing Davis, so our numerical strength at LB would be the same, since Moss rarely played.
7 DLs
DE – Bannan, McBean
NT – J-Will, (Cody), Fields
DE – Green, Thomas
plus 1 DL
bubble — Baker
or resign — Holliday
I like Holliday but I don’t think he’s an asset in run defense. The question is whether we re-sign him or keep Baker on the PS. There’s no way to avoid number crunches at this point. We simply don’t have enough room to avoid cutting someone. And we can get by with only 7 DLs if there’s an injury or we cut somebody.
The justification for an NT is that we’re not really in great shape on the DL or at NT. We have talent for now, which I’m not down on, but age is a big issue and we need to develop some younger players. Maybe Baker doesn’t work out or maybe Thomas doesn’t either, we simply don’t know. J-Will is old enough that we have to think replacement, and Fields is solid but begs for an upgrade.
I don’t see us having a salary crunch on the OL now, and T Will could alleviate a problem later. Harris is up for renewal next year and T Will would provide a hedge against any uncertainty there. I think the issue is more about whether we have a number of contracts come up at once. Clady should be up in 2013. This way, we’re protected against expensive re-signings. And we also get what could be a great OG who’s probably the top OL we can get at that point in the draft, and that is our greatest area of need.
no goats, no glory.
Your number of eight linebackers (inluding Davis’ replacement) sounds about right. But that includes an ILB or an edge rushing OLB, not both. It seems to me that we could use both, more so than we could use the eighth defensive lineman, IMO – especially considering the eighth defensive lineman forces a tough cut whereas the additional linebacker does not.
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
I should add..
That I agree with the need for a young man to be drafted at NT and a weak side pass-rushing DG. I just think that with the guys and depth we currently have on the defensive line (even considering age), we’ll do much better this year and will have plenty of time to still draft and develop new rookies under veterans next year.
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
Couldn't DJ move over to play the Ted?
If we did draft Sppon that might not be the plan this year but maybe next year DJ could shift over, and Spoon could take his job?
Just a thought.
D J at Ted
He seems to have the same problem as Weatherspoon — IMO. Neither of them are really in the Ted mold.
The most obvious solutions are already on-board. Both Haggan and Larsen fit the Ted mold well.
no goats, no glory.
i take jamar chaney or gerhart
chaney could still be there in 3d round, so a guy like Gerhart may be the one. I also think its more likely we get a OC/OG capable player, unless the OC candidates are that legit. I think those workouts will give the coaches the ability to compare.
chaney is the man for the inside though…..i just need to see that Denver is even looking at him somewhere…..c’mon baby
by BideshiBronco on Apr 7, 2010 12:48 AM MDT up reply actions
I totally love all the players you picked, especially the first four. I’m not on the Pouncey at #11 bandwagon, like many others on MHR are. I would trade down for him but that is all. Taking a center at #11 is unprecedented and unwarranted. Taking Pouncey at #11 would be the epitome of need trumping value, a mistake that most NFL teams don’t make
Weatherspoon and Jerry would be dream picks, but I don’t think they last as long as you have them.
The 49ers overdrafted Patrick Willis in 2007 when they should have taken a guy at a more important position like Justin Hurrell or Jarvis.
Pouncey has All Pro potential and he is just 20 years old. He could be an amazing player for us for the next 13 or so years. Not sure how that is the epitome of need trumping value. I love Denver to make the mistake of taking the best C prospect in a LONG LONG time instead of nabing a one year wonder like Dan Williams or an athletic freak like Dez Bryant.
In my opinion.
I tend to agree
I don’t mind drafting for need since it’s one of a very few glaring needs this team has for a starter. You draft players in the first round who are going to have a high impact. Pouncey will have a very high impact. I would most definitely promote him at 11.
You go for value when your roster is stacked. Teams that don’t draft centers high generally don’t have a glaring need for them, or the best center prospect in the draft is a borderline first/second round pick. You saw Mack Last year get picked at 21, and the Browns picked up a bounty of extra picks moving down to get him. If we could move down once and still get Pouncey, it is a steal.
A vision without a plan is just a dream. A plan without a vision is drudgery. But a vision with a plan can change the world.
by Sayre Bedinger on Apr 6, 2010 9:30 PM MDT up reply actions
Sayre...
You wrote “you go for value when your roster is stacked.” Seriously? Do you really believe that bad to mediocre teams should only draft for need but good teams should only draft for value? If this is your belief I would like you to expound on it.
If I could butt in for just a sec..
Our team has a glaring need in the middle of the offensive line. IF we have to reach, nobody’s going to remember the reach if he’s allowing Moreno and Buck to get goal-line touchdowns and pushing for the inches on third-and-shorts. But I can assure you that this conversation will be re-lived into eternity if we’re not in better shape than last year after having passed on that “reach”.
On another note, I think what he’s saying is that unless you’re a team that’s solid at each position, teams tend to use their highest resources on their biggest needs. Look at it this way, if you were to draft Dan Williams instead of Pouncey due to an unwillingness to “reach”, Williams would likely ride the bench in his crowded position for over half of the defensive plays over the next couple years. Joe Haden would play situational football at nickle. During that same time, you would have been getting immediate impact from Pouncey. Who represents better value?
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
It wasn't me who said
that need should trump value every time or vice versa. I have always advocated a reasonable application of both.
Elvis,
Don’t take my word for it. Here is a very small answer to the same topic by an NFL GM recently:
Q: Do you draft for need or value/best player available?
A: Obviously we look at needs, but the board is going to reflect their value as a player. Then we’ll address the needs. You obviously want to take the best available player so if there’s a clear difference between two players, we’re going to take the best available player. It’s not always necessarily going to be at the need position. When two players are very similar in ability and they’re at two different positions, that’s when you … address the need.
Are you saying you disagree with this NFL GM?
Charley Casserly?
I feel like I heard him say that. If that’s the case, he’s not always lived by that rule of thumb. In the second round and beyond, you have the ability to go BPA because you’re looking for the best athletes who can help your team. In the first round, Maurkice Pouncey, the consensus #1 center prospect, is not a reach simply because he fits a position of need. He’s far and away the best prospect at his position, which just doesn’t happen to be overly glamerous.
A vision without a plan is just a dream. A plan without a vision is drudgery. But a vision with a plan can change the world.
by Sayre Bedinger on Apr 7, 2010 7:40 AM MDT up reply actions
That's way too vague for me to agree or disagree
But I think if you look at picks in the last drafts, specifically 1st and 2nd round draft picks, you’ll find that an absolutely enormous majority of teams used those picks on a position where they did in fact have a need or were anticipating having a need due to someone’s impending or immenent release/retirement.
Teams don’t add a QB in round-one when they’ve got Tom Brady. They don’t take Knowshon Moreno with Steven Jackson on the roster. And we shouldn’t pass on this draft’s only dominant center when we have no other real options. Exceptions exist to every rule and my guess is that your GM forgot to tell you that he too has thrown out conventional wisdom at times.
So while I can’t really speak
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
Yes, Seriously
CJ Spiller will without a doubt be the best “value” when we are on the clock to select at 11. If not Spiller, then Joe Haden. If not Haden, then Derrick Morgan. If not Derrick Morgan, then Taylor Mays or Earl Thomas.
Those guys, according to letitimate media outlets, will be the best “value” when we are on the clock. While I like each prospect to a certain degree and have suggested multiple of them as possibilities for the Broncos, those picks would be better made on a team that didn’t NOT have starters at the two positions they were most glaringly weak at in 2009 in LG and C. While it may be a reach to take Pouncey in terms of the draft boards that have been created, he is EASILY and without a shadow of a doubt the best center prospect the NFL has seen in a long time. He is only 20 years old, and is an extremely intelligent player.
At 20 years old, he could potentially be our center, barring injury, or even left guard, for the next 15-18 years. That’s GREAT value, in my opinion.
A vision without a plan is just a dream. A plan without a vision is drudgery. But a vision with a plan can change the world.
by Sayre Bedinger on Apr 7, 2010 7:34 AM MDT up reply actions
Ummmm....McGeorge...
Frankly, there are several opinions you have that are wrong and your overall point is likely wrong too.
1. Most importantly, you attempt to make the case that drafting a center at #11 is what you would do. To my knowledge, a center prospect has not been drafted that high in the last 30 years. You make the statement that Pouncey is the best center prospect in “LONG LONG time.” Are you sure? What makes this true? Off the top of your head, can you tell me the top center prospects in the last 30 years? My hunch is you have no clue, but it is just a hunch.
2. You refer to Dez Bryant as an athletic freak. Actually, you are wrong. Dez Bryant has relatively poor measurables and is known for his production, not his workout warrior status.
3. Dan Williams may be a “one year wonder” like you say but you should not be so easily dismissive of a player. After all, virtually every draft expert, and likely most scouts, have Dan Williams as a top 20 talent. Should I believe them, or should I believe you?
a disappointing comment
look, who is wrong??? make a point, don’t pretend you know something b/c you really don’t know much.
1. You’re right about Pouncey being such a great OC, I’m not sure anyone knows for sure, but he actually is the top OC in just about every mock listing (D.Williams is not for DL). Did you read the “”http://www.milehighreport.com/2010/3/21/1383800/trends" >Trends" fanpost it gives some good insight into why OCs are becoming more important. I think several teams are gonna be tracking on OCs this draft. The selection of Mack last year is a good indicator. Can we move back in draft? If not, then what? I think McG makes a good point…..just follow your gut and get off the Convl Wisdom crapper.
The point of Williams and Bryant is just that they are highly touted, but they seem less proven. They could be the cat’s meow, but Pouncey seems a safer bet. Again, I don’t have set opinions on any of these guys, but I do agree with McG that many times nonsense like value and conventional wisdom and draft history can prevent a good selection. We need to make a good selection regardless of where it is and hopefully it is a selection that helps us right away. If Pouncey is a good bet, he will definitely help quickly.
by BideshiBronco on Apr 7, 2010 1:06 AM MDT up reply actions
In quick response to the four comments above:
I don’t really have Weatherspoon going #45. There are comments below the picture. Instead of throwing out a hypothetical trade, which would be like picking lotto numbers, I’m saying that a move will likely need made to go get him in the late 2nd round. The cost is minimal and would likely be offset by moving back from taking Pouncey at the #16 or so.
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
if we can maneuver to get these two with our first two picks
I agree that would be great
by black_knight101 on Apr 6, 2010 2:48 PM MDT up reply actions
he was the pick that impressed me the most
I like the fact that we got a real OLB34 rush backer type. His metric in the short shuttle bodes well for a switch to OLB. He was tried at both ILB and OLB in the Texas V. Nation bowl and he could prove even more useful if he’s versatile.
no goats, no glory.
SDSU!
I don’t go there, but they are the most prominent school for football here in SD, so it’s cool to see someone who is going to make it to the bigs!
A vision without a plan is just a dream. A plan without a vision is drudgery. But a vision with a plan can change the world.
by Sayre Bedinger on Apr 6, 2010 6:35 PM MDT up reply actions
we've had a lot of Dakota players
Both Dakotas and differing schools from each. Kuper is the only current one but Mitch Erickson was another, who was recently cut. Off the top my head, Mustard comes to mind.
no goats, no glory.
Yes, it's pretty rare
Kuper is from Alaska and went to UND, so you don’t hear a ton about him here in South Dakota. I worked with Erickson’s girlfriend’s roomate over the summer, so it’s really a small world here.
My brother has a mutual friend of Chad Mustard.
Chad Greenway is from SD, he still makes appearances from time to time. Stefan Logan’s daughter goes to my mom’s daycare, he went to USD.
Ben Leber is from Vermillion, I think.
I just hate Mike Miller though :)
A vision without a plan is just a dream. A plan without a vision is drudgery. But a vision with a plan can change the world.
by Sayre Bedinger on Apr 7, 2010 7:43 AM MDT up reply actions
I guess there were only the 3
I just looked and there’s only those 3 Dakota connected players — Kuper, Erickson and Mustard. Tyrone Braxton is another but it was last year that I noticed all the Dakotans(?).
no goats, no glory.
Nice, I like it.
I was thinking about this, and I could definitely see a trade up into the first round if we are unable to get a first for Marshall. I think picks from that trade could be used to move up.
The ideal situation would be to acquire our own pick back for Marshall, and get both Pouncey and Weatherspoon, and then to add Ducasse in the 2nd round. That would be ideal to me.
SOUTH DAKOTA REPRESENT!
A vision without a plan is just a dream. A plan without a vision is drudgery. But a vision with a plan can change the world.
Me too, exactly the same.
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
I like this draft
3 OL might be much but if this is how the draft pans out, I’d be happy.
Derek Anderson is just as much a probowl quarterback as Jay Cutler
as an ND fan
I can say Sam Young sucks. He is horrible Àþ blocking edge rushers, and looks like a better OG than OT. He followed up my opinion on him with a Senior Bowl where scouts said he didn’t even belong there
by DBroncs1414 on Apr 6, 2010 9:43 AM MDT via mobile reply actions
I've got no problem with him being a guard
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
Pouncey is good but not 11 good
He is not good value at 11, centers do not go that high, if we are going to take him we will trade back guarenteed. I would be pumped if we got him but not at 11. You don’t pay a center that kind of money it does not fit into the numbers for NFL salary caps and Xanders is a big numbers guy, that is why he was originally hired a few years ago. I like everyone’s enthusiasm for Pouncey but he will not go at #11 IMO. Fun mock love the other picks, Spoon would be huge in the second and great value there.
2/3 of the earth is covered by water the other 1/3 is covered by Champ Bailey!
THIS IS BRONCOS COUNTRY!!!
I don't think that's the point
I think elvisalex is trying to illustrate without making projected trades exactly who the Broncos are looking for early on. For instance, in his pick comments, he indicated that Sean Weatherspoon would have to be obtained by moving up in the draft, and that getting him at 45 is a longshot.
Pouncey may not be our pick at 11, but this mock is illustrating that he will be our first round pick (or one of them).
A vision without a plan is just a dream. A plan without a vision is drudgery. But a vision with a plan can change the world.
by Sayre Bedinger on Apr 6, 2010 9:51 AM MDT up reply actions
I understand the reasoning
I am just saying I keep seeing Pouncey at 11 and it wont happen IMO. I love the other picks and if we trade back than great I am all for it, but all these mocks need to look at more than need as NFL GM’s are big on value and money per position. And form what I am hearing from a friend/source it will be D-line or best value at 119 I woudl love a trade up for Suh or Berry but Denver would have to give up too much). Also Sayre I love all your mocks and I dont care if your have 30 by draft day, we need them!
2/3 of the earth is covered by water the other 1/3 is covered by Champ Bailey!
THIS IS BRONCOS COUNTRY!!!
by The 3 Amigos on Apr 6, 2010 10:55 AM MDT up reply actions
Oh trust me, there will be 30 and beyond!
I think… haha
A vision without a plan is just a dream. A plan without a vision is drudgery. But a vision with a plan can change the world.
by Sayre Bedinger on Apr 6, 2010 1:42 PM MDT up reply actions
+1000000000000000
I always believe there's a reason why you go through everything - John Elway
October 11, 2009: Remember the McD Fist Pump.
Xbox360 gamertag: SnipeMeHarder
Thanks Sayre
Yeah, you nailed it. I’d have better luck throwing darts. But I believe there are thousand scenarios where we could go get Pouncey AND Weatherspoon both. Half of that hinges on one of them making it past #18.
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
Why draft a great player like Pouncey a little early when you can draft a dud like Tyson Jackson at #3 overall because it is good positional value?
Funny how you never see great drafting teams like the Ravens, Colts or Packers use positional value when making draft picks. Nope, these teams ususally just draft good football players when it’s their turn to pick.
In my opinion.
Not really
I guess it all depends on who is evaluating. Flacco was featured on NFL channel as Mayock did a long segment touting him as 1st round material. His stock rose late® so sources that relied on ratings established earlier in the process may have missed on him.
CBS had him at #39(rising) and Wright had him #41. He was picked at #18 but it wasn’t that surprising when Baltimore picked him. If I recall correctly, his transfer to a division I-AA hurt his stock and there were differing opinions on him. Teams that focused of his size, statistics and mechanics discounted the level of play issue. There were teams who downgraded him to 1-2 cusp (or below) but a smaller group of teams were hot on him, and Baltimore took him where they did because he wouldn’t have been available too much longer.
no goats, no glory.
move up
elvisalex stated at the end that the broncos would move up if needed to grab him.
Academe, n.: An ancient school where morality and philosophy were taught. Academy, n.: A modern school where football is taught.
Fans don't boo nobodies.
Like it
Reasoning is good and I actually prefer your thinking (picking players you think we’ll go after rather than stating a whole bunch of trades) makes it easier to read and be happy with.
Academe, n.: An ancient school where morality and philosophy were taught. Academy, n.: A modern school where football is taught.
Fans don't boo nobodies.
ea
I have a question. Do you feel it will be easier to swoop back in to get Weatherspoon rather than for Pouncey? I have this feeling McClain may still go before our pick and NYG at #15 will for sure take Weatherspoon if this is the case. The earliest I see Pouncey going is to Pitt at #18. This is doubtful however. More than likely they would go Iupati.
I would prefer Weatherspoon at 11 and trade back in to get Pouncey.
It only takes one team to take away our birthday...
But I do think McClain will be there at 11. If that’s the case, I think Weatherspoon will last longer than Pouncey. If McClain is gone before 11 then I’d say Poucey will outlast Weatherspoon.
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
I could see us trading with Pittsburgh.
Our #11 for their #18&52. Then select Pouncey and we get another player later on…say like LB Butler. Two for one…Sweet.
I'm afraid that Pittsburgh is our biggest competition for Pouncey's services
Who do you see them trading up for?
by BroncosBassist on Apr 6, 2010 11:55 AM MDT up reply actions
Not sure really because like you said center is their biggest concern on offense given Big Ben doesn't get suspended.
Would they go after Derrick Morgan, Joe Haden or Dan Williams. Their starting DE’s are all over 30 and aging. That leads me to believe that they will address the DE early, where there are talented Centers in the later rounds. I’m not totally sold like Sayre is that they will go after Pouncey and if you’ll remember last year everyone was saying they were taking Alex Mack in the first when the took Ziggy Hood instead. We’ll see though in 2 weeks and 2 days…
Good thoughts
I wonder if they overlook center twice, though…I love the draft. :)
by BroncosBassist on Apr 6, 2010 2:20 PM MDT up reply actions
I doubt if they will, I'm just not sure they covet Pouncey that high.
The Steelers have aways tried to pride themselves with there defense and the way Big Ben holds onto the ball, I don’t think many OLines in the league can keep him off the turf. The dude either doesn’t read the open receiver quick enough or is being really careful not to make a bad throw. If he was a little quicker getting off, his OLine would suffice IMO, but I think they will grab a center in the later rounds.
I agree that Pitt is our biggest competition for him
But they could find better value at another position of need there, so ultimately, I think they’ll pass. They’re not as needy for the position as we are.
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
Good points
by you and bfree. I need to go study up on the Steelers and see what their needs are…
by BroncosBassist on Apr 7, 2010 5:56 AM MDT up reply actions
I mentioned Butler in my book above, he would be my second choice on the inside
But there’s a big drop off IMO
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
I wonder if that's due to his combine numbers
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
I like it, but...
I voted that you overlooked need. The only thing I’d like to see in there, other than what you addressed is one DL — either NT or DE. Individual prospects could be argued for each position, but I think you hit all the other ones I’d like to see.
Thanks for the comments
There’s only one scenario that I’ve said I wouldn’t support with the #11 pick and that’s drafting a defensive lineman. I wouldn’t cry but I wouldn’t understand it and wouldn’t be happy.
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
not necessarily at #11
Thanks for the response. I could live with a mid-round guy rather than one at 11. Or, if we could get 2 first rounders, I’d love Williams or Odrick. If we only have 2 picks in the first two rounds, though, I’d not be upset if we didn’t take one until someone like Arthur Jones later on. Or maybe Torrell Troup.
by BroncosBassist on Apr 7, 2010 5:58 AM MDT up reply actions
I'm pretty much anti-defensive line
If we bought three rather high-profile upgrades this off-season to the offensive line and none to the defensive line, I wouldn’t want to draft another one. Same goes for our current state at defensive line. As it stands, we already have too many. Every addition to DL means one more of our current guys get cut. We could probably add four offensive linemen without having to cut anybody important. We could add add a RB, a CB, a couple linebackers, etc.. None of which would force us to make tough cuts.
There’s no reason to draft a defensive linemen. None, in my opinion. There are those that will say that we need youth to build around. There are those that say J-Will is old. Some will say he’s injury prone. The list goes on. I say this:
J-Will isn’t the perpetual injury risk people make him out to be. Aside from last year, he’s started at least 13 games each year since 2003. His weight is down to around 235 and he’s rested. Even if f J-Wall goes down to injury, we still have a much upgraded line from last year. He’s older, yes, but so is over half of our defense. We can’t expect to have an all-pro backing up every vet. Our first couple picks should be used at positions where the team has a need and where draftee at least has a chance to become a starter.
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
I understand your position.
I see why you and others don’t want us to draft a defensive lineman this year, and I would include myself in the ranks of those that wouldn’t be very upset with that lack. But, the reason I feel like we could use one (and only one) D-lineman is just what you mentioned. Yes, we have a lot of bodies, but the most proven of those bodies are north of 30. We have a bit of promise in some of the youngsters, but an upgrade is never a bad thing. I wouldn’t put the DL as a critical need, but in the scheme of things, I’d put it on the level with RB, and I would prefer one DL and two OL to three OL in the same draft.
by BroncosBassist on Apr 7, 2010 9:02 AM MDT up reply actions
I think if Trent Williams is there we should take him cause he played Center at hte end of the year for OU
Perhaps,
But then aren’t you drafting an OC at #11 anyway – except you would eventually be paying him tackle money. So eventually, you’d have to make him a tackle. Then you couldn’t afford to extend Harris (paying three linemen “tackle money”). So you’d have to part with him in a couple years. So in a couple years, you’d have drafted a temporaryily high-priced center, eventually moved him to tackle, and now that pick you used has gone for not, because you’re down one player (Harris) that didn’t need replaced. In essence, when it all shook out, you spent a first-round pick to replace Harris – a guy that didn’t need replaced. The pick would have been wasted because despite spending the first round pick, two years down the road you would have no more starters than you had today. Hope my thoughts made sense there.
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
Love this draft Alex....
Take a better caliber OT in place of Young, such as Calloway, & I think this draft would border on perfection. The best mock I’ve seen for us this year. Many props.
Thanks a lot! I'll take Calloway under advisement
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
Excellent draft - if we can pull it off.
The 1st 2 guys are top 25 players, IMO. Weatherspoon is rated at #25 on the CBS Sports rankings while Pouncey is at #35. I expect both to go before 25 picks are taken – actually I would say – before 20 picks are taken. I hope that this works out with trades etc.
Elvisalex, you have addressed each of the big needs and added some depth. Your 1st 4 picks are awesome! I am not a fan of Sam Young, however, RT Harris is from Notre Dame so what do I know. He should add good depth. Speaking of Harris, I know the reports of his recovery are good – however, it would IMO not be good to plan on a recovery and not to have another option in place should he not be able to play. Thus, another good OT in our arsenal.
I have done several mocks – they change almost evey day. However, one with the basic 6 picks have 3 OLs, 2 LBs & 1 RB. Similar to this one.
Very good job, elvis. Thanks for your time and energy.
Thanks a lot!
Backing up Harris, to me, is a balancing act. Too high of a resource is a wasted resource, provided he comes back permanently. Too low of a resource is playing with fire, as you may need him in week one. Ducasse is a fan favorite and a smart choice. He could probably be had right at 45 and could probably fill in for Harris. I think Jerry could do it, too, but as I said, it’s a tough balance.
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
Nice overall draft
Of course I really like that 7th round pick of Karim, being that I’m an SIU alum. Karim doesn’t have the size of Brandon Jacobs another Saluki grad, but he certainly has moxy.
I’ll have to do more research on Batten. I really like your first four picks as I can see each one contributing very early in the season and that’s a plus.
"A great pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do" Walter Gagenot
"Hope sees the invisible, feels the intangible and achieves the impossible."
Thanks!
Sam Young seems to be the odd man out. I’ll have to study up a little more on him if I end up doing another!
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
Here's NFP's take on Young
Scouting Report:
Sam Young: No. 74, OT, 6-8, 320
Young looks to have put on some weight last offseason and plays with a mean streak in the run game. He showcases good overall athleticism for a guy his size when asked to slide-block and get out in space. He exhibits the pop to create some movement off the ball. Young works hard to finish blocks but struggles to consistently keep his base down through the play. He gets a bit overextended with his kick-step but has the length and size to make it tough for defensive linemen to reach the corner. He does a nice job of dropping his pad level down on contact, although he has a tendency to bend at the waist. Young gets a bit heavy-footed when asked to slide on contact and struggles to mirror his man. He allows defenders to easily sidestep and disengage from his block when they want to get physical and is only average when asked to reach the edge.
"A great pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do" Walter Gagenot
"Hope sees the invisible, feels the intangible and achieves the impossible."
Mayockism: "heavy-legged waist bender"
He was getting touted for a while but dropped in the late season (Wright expressed doubts) and continued downward in the Senior bowl.
no goats, no glory.
I have had enough of mock drafts....I just want the REAL draft...
That being said, best Mock draft i have seen!
Those that cant coach, compete!
Failing to plan is planning to fail.
All I want is 53 Rod Smiths. Is that asking too much????
"Peyton Hillis didn’t rip the sleeves off his jersey, they flew off out of fear."
Calijoefornia.
Well, gollee... Thanks!
I’m ready, too, btw!!
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
love the early picks....
i voted no but i REALLY think we need to go CB in the mid rounds… there are several options there.
Love Pouncey @ #11
If the NFP player rankings are correct he is 1 of the top 6 players in the draft if positional value is tossed out. 6 players carry a grade of 7.5, then the board drops to a group of 4 graded at 7.0. Since we happen to need a new Center, I see this as the poster child for a pick that is BPA at a position of need.
I'd actually like to take him somewhere between 16 and 23
But I’d be absolutely fine with having him at all!
Give me impact at center, copmetence at guard and an upgrade at linebacker - sprinkle in strides from having the same system for two years in a row - and I'll show you a contender!
16 probably at latest
I think the Steelers really like him
A vision without a plan is just a dream. A plan without a vision is drudgery. But a vision with a plan can change the world.
by Sayre Bedinger on Apr 9, 2010 7:28 AM MDT up reply actions
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- Detroit Lions DT Nick Fairley arrested again; now has more NFL arrests than NFL sacks
- Former high-school star Brian Banks does serious time on trumped-up charge, now hopes for an NFL shot
- Former ‘idiot kicker’ Mike Vanderjagt in trouble after accosting junior-high heckler
- Adrian Peterson blows teammates away in footraces; appears to be on the mend
- UPDATE: Charlie Sheen didn’t buy Lawrence Taylor’s Super Bowl ring
