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Todd McShay Mock Draft (ESPN INSIDER)

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  • Todd McShay Mock Draft (ESPN INSIDER)

    + -- Underclassman


    1. Oakland Raiders (2-14)
    Projected pick: +JaMarcus Russell, QB, LSU
    Needs: QB, DT, OT/G, TE, WR, LB, CB, RB
    • Russell makes the most sense for a team loaded with talented wide receivers (Randy Moss, Jerry Porter and Ronald Curry) but nobody to get the ball to them.
    • It seems the window of opportunity has passed for Oakland to acquire a veteran starting quarterback in order to justify taking Georgia Tech WR Calvin Johnson. If the team does add a second-tier veteran between now and the draft, it will do so as insurance for Russell. A veteran like Tim Rattay could potentially bridge the gap for a season while Russell is being groomed for 2008.
    • Oakland will continue to field trade calls but it's highly unlikely owner Al Davis will move out of the No. 1 spot.
    • The Raiders will also continue communications with the agents for Johnson and QB Brady Quinn, but more so for leverage purposes in attempts to get a pre-draft deal done with Russell.


    2. Detroit (3-13)
    Projected pick: +Calvin Johnson, WR, Georgia Tech
    Needs: QB, ILB, CB, TE, S, WR, C, DT, DE
    • Johnson coming off the board at No. 2 is the most logical assumption at this point in time.
    • Assuming Russell goes No. 1 to the Raiders, the Lions will put their pick up for public auction. The Buccaneers, Redskins and Falcons are all rumored to have interest in trading up for Johnson, but striking a deal will be much harder than most think. The Lions would ideally like to trade down within the top 10, acquire an extra pick or two and still draft Clemson DE Gaines Adams or Wisconsin OT Joe Thomas in the first round.
    • All bets are off if Oakland takes Johnson. Detroit could find a trading partner in Cleveland, but it wouldn't get much in return for moving down one spot (possibly the Browns' third and fourth-round picks).
    • If stuck at No. 2 with Johnson as the top pick, the Lions would likely decide between Russell, Adams and Thomas.


    3. Cleveland (4-12)
    Projected pick: Brady Quinn, QB, Notre Dame
    Needs: CB, QB, RB, LOT, DL, WR, S, OLB
    • The Browns would love to land Russell with this pick and would consider moving up one spot if Russell fell and if the Lions made a generous offer.
    • If Russell is gone, GM Phil Savage will have an excruciatingly difficult decision to make between Quinn and Adrian Peterson. Although I consider Peterson the higher-rated prospect, Quinn seems to be the more likely pick.
    • The Browns are rumored to have some interest in trading down but it's a long shot. The only moves they would likely consider would be down one or two spots with the Buccaneers and Cardinals, respectively. That would keep the Browns within striking range of what Savage considers to be the five elite prospects in this year's class (Johnson, Peterson, Quinn, Russell and Thomas).




    4. Tampa Bay (4-12)
    Projected pick: Gaines Adams, DE, Clemson
    Needs: WR, DT, S, DE, CB, OT, RB, TE
    • The Bucs are reportedly already in discussions with the Lions to trade up if WR Johnson is on the board at No. 2 overall. Coach Jon Gruden must be salivating at the possibility of working with a dynamic playmaker like Johnson. The Bucs own four of the top 68 picks overall. Unfortunately for Tampa, it is expected to take at least three of those Day 1 picks to move up two spots.
    • If the Buccaneers can't land Johnson they'll look to bail out of this pick. They could trade down, acquire more picks and still land a quality prospect such as DE Adams, DT Amobi Okoye (Louisville) or S Laron Landry (LSU).
    • If stuck at No. 4, the Bucs are expected to choose between OT Thomas and DE Adams.


    5. Arizona (5-11)
    Projected pick: Joe Thomas, OT, Wisconsin
    Needs: OT, WLB, CB, DT, DE, TE, S, P
    • This is the best-case scenario for a Cardinals team in desperate need of an upgrade at offensive tackle. Thomas is the premier offensive line talent in the 2007 class and he's ready to start immediately. He would help protect last year's first-round investment, QB Matt Leinart, while also upgrading a run offense that finished 30th last year despite the acquisition of RB Edgerrin James.
    • There are some rumblings that the Cardinals would strongly consider Peterson if a similar scenario unfolds. Although Thomas fills a great need, Peterson is considered by most to be the better value and new head coach Ken Whisenhunt would like to run the ball enough to keep two premier backs like Peterson and James content.


    6. Washington (5-11)
    Projected pick: Amobi Okoye, DT, Louisville
    Needs: DT, DE, G, S, CB, WR, OLB, QB, TE
    • Washington's No. 1 priority is to trade out of the No. 6 spot. Regardless of where they pick, the Redskins should be in search for the best available defensive lineman (DT or DE) after setting a franchise record with only 19 sacks and finishing 27th versus the run in 2006.
    • Trading back is the smartest play for the Skins, as they currently are without picks in the second, third and fourth rounds. Moving back would allow them to recoup some of those picks, while still getting a very good value on one of the top defensive linemen. The Vikings (No. 7) and Dolphins (No. 9) are potential trade partners if Quinn is still on the board. The Texans (No. 10), Bills (No. 12) and Packers (No. 16) would be possible suitors if Peterson is available.
    • If stuck at No. 6 with DE Adams already off the board, DT Okoye becomes the next-best option. The 19-year-old has bulked up to 300-plus pounds and ran the 40 in the 4.8-second range at an on-campus workout.
    • Although it's a long shot, there are some whispers of the Redskins trading away next year's first-round pick (and possibly more) in order to move up for WR Johnson.


    7. Minnesota (6-10)
    Projected pick: +Adrian Peterson, RB, Oklahoma
    Needs: WR, DE, CB, TE, C/G, QB, DT, RB, ILB
    • Minnesota is in a tough spot at No. 7. The team's two biggest needs are at wide receiver and defensive end, but the top players at those positions (WR Johnson and WR Adams) should be gone.
    • It would be considered too high to reach for a cornerback like Leon Hall (Michigan) or Darrelle Revis (Pittsburgh).
    • Landry is a good value at No. 7 but safety is one of the team's deeper positions.
    • Minnesota could get a great value if Quinn or Peterson falls to the Vikes at No. 7, but neither plays a position of pressing need for the team. Although the Vikings still like the potential of QB Tarvaris Jackson (last year's second-round pick), it would be awfully difficult to pass on Quinn if he slips to No. 7. The same can be said for Peterson despite the presence of starting RB Chester Taylor, who rushed for 1,216 yards in 2006.
    • The team is rumored to have interest in trading up for Quinn, but I have a hard time buying into that speculation. GM Rick Spielman believes in building through the draft, so the team is definitely open to trading down and stockpiling picks. Unfortunately for the Vikings, it looks like Washington could trade one pick ahead of them, which will make it significantly harder for the Vikings to find a suitor.


    8. Atlanta (7-9)
    (from Houston)
    Projected pick: LaRon Landry, S, LSU
    Needs: S, DE, OT, CB, G, DT, RB, PK, MLB, QB
    • Landry is the best pick if Atlanta stays at No. 8. A four-year starter in the SEC, Landry should be ready to start immediately in the NFL and he would give the Falcons a significant upgrade in speed, athleticism and toughness at the safety position.
    • OT Levi Brown is another strong possibility, especially with new head coach Bobby Petrino looking to get bigger and more physical along the offensive line.
    • Depending on how the first seven picks shake out, the Falcons would consider DTs Okoye and Alan Branch (Michigan) at No. 8.
    • The Falcons currently own 10 picks overall, which gives them ammunition to move up the board on Day 1. The Falcons are rumored to have an interest in moving up to No. 2 for WR Johnson. Such a move would likely cost the team its top three picks (8, 39 and 44).


    9. Miami (6-10)
    Projected pick: Levi Brown, OT, Penn State
    Needs: OT/G, QB, DL, CB, TE, WR, S, RB, LB, C
    • Although nothing has been finalized at this point, it seems inevitable that the team will welcome QB Trent Green (Chiefs) and part ways with QB Daunte Culpepper. Regardless, the team is expected to address the future of the quarterback position early in the 2007 draft. The Dolphins may consider moving up if Quinn falls to No. 6 (Redskins) or No. 7 (Vikings). Otherwise, they should target Stanford's Trent Edwards or Michigan State's Drew Stanton in Round 2.
    • If it's not Quinn in the first round, expect Miami to take the best available offensive or defensive lineman at No. 9. Brown, who is this draft's second-rated offensive tackle behind Thomas, has the size and mobility to solidify the Dolphins' left tackle position for years to come.
    • In this scenario, DT Branch would be the best available defensive lineman.




    10. Houston (6-10)
    (from Atlanta)
    Projected pick: Leon Hall, CB, Michigan
    Needs: CB, WR, S, DT, OLB, DE, OT, RB
    • Houston is rumored to have interest in trading up for RB Peterson but it seems unlikely considering its multitude of needs. Peterson would, however, be a tremendous value in the unlikely scenario he falls to the Texans at No. 10. Houston has more pressing needs after signing veteran RB Ahman Green, but it would be awfully tough to pass on Peterson -- one year after passing on Reggie Bush (Saints).
    • OT Brown would be a perfect match of need and value if he's available.
    • The Texans need to find a quality starter opposite Dunta Robinson and Hall is the top-rated cornerback in this year's class.
    • The team has pressing needs at wide receiver and safety but it would be a reach to select the next best prospects at either position. If Houston were able to pull off a downward trade, Ohio State WR Ted Ginn Jr. and Florida S Reggie Nelson would be good fits later in the round.
    • In this scenario, DT Branch would be a consideration.




    11. San Francisco (7-9)
    Projected pick: Adam Carriker, DE, Nebraska
    Needs: DT/DE, OLB, S, OT, WR, RB, ILB, TE, FB, C/G
    • The 49ers should use this pick to bolster their defensive front. At 296 pounds, Carriker has the size, strength, quickness and technique to develop into a quality every-down starter at DE in the team's 3-4 scheme.
    • DT Branch and ILB Patrick Willis (Mississippi) would also be considerations at No. 11.
    • Wide receiver is the team's biggest need area but it's too early to spend a pick on Ginn, Dwayne Bowe (LSU) or Robert Meachem (Tennessee).
    • Also, with eight picks in the first four rounds, don't be surprised if the 49ers move back into the bottom half of Round 1 like they did a year ago (TE Vernon Davis at No. 6 and DE/OLB Manny Lawson at No. 22). They could use the second choice in the first round on a receiver such as Meachem or a safety such as Nelson.




    12. Buffalo (7-9)
    Projected pick: Patrick Willis, ILB, Mississippi
    Needs: RB, CB, LB, TE, DT, FB, WR, ILB, FS, QB
    • Running back is the team's most pressing need, but it's too high to take a chance on RB Marshawn Lynch, and Peterson is already off the board. Trading up for RB Peterson is a possibility but the Bills have been tight-lipped if they actually intend on doing so.
    • In this scenario, the Bills should address a lesser need by taking Willis, who ranks as the premier linebacker prospect in the 2007 class. Willis has the workout numbers to match his production as a three-year starter in the SEC.
    • The team could also use this pick on a cornerback. Hall is off the board in this scenario, so Pittsburgh's Darrelle Revis would be the next best value.
    • Also note: Though it sounds like a deal for Chargers RB Michael Turner is off the table, don't completely rule it out on draft day.


    13. St. Louis (8-
    Projected pick: +Alan Branch, DT, Michigan
    Needs: DT, DE, LB, CB, RB, G/C, WR, S, P
    • The Rams will focus on defense early in the draft, especially the defensive tackle position. With Okoye off the board, Branch is the top candidate. Branch is slipping on many teams' boards due to his inconsistent motor and a potential for durability issues (speculation of shin splints or stress fractures in his legs). However, if the 323-pounder is still on the board at No. 13, it could prove to be a worthwhile risk for the Rams.
    • Youth is also needed at defensive end, linebacker and cornerback. ILB Willis would be a great value, if available. The team would also consider DE Jamaal Anderson (Arkansas) and CB Revis with this pick.
    • It should also be noted that the Rams showed extra interest in WR/RS Ginn during the month of April.




    14. Carolina (8-
    Projected pick: +Greg Olsen, TE, Miami
    Needs: TE, S, ILB, DE, OT, WR, OLB, DE
    • Olsen is the best fit if ILB Willis is off the board. Olsen is the only first-round talent in this year's tight end class and he has the speed to take pressure off WRs Steve Smith and Keyshawn Johnson.
    • The Panthers have significant needs at safety and linebacker. But they would be reaching at No. 14 for safeties Nelson and Michael Griffin (Texas), as well as LBs Lawrence Timmons (Florida State) and Paul Posluszny (Penn State).
    • Defensive end and defensive tackle are also possibilities if the right prospect falls to them here.




    15. Pittsburgh (8-
    Projected pick: +Lawrence Timmons, OLB, Florida State
    Needs: OLB, G, DE, CB, RB, WR, C, ILB, TE, FB
    • The Steelers need to address their outside linebacker situation early in this year's draft. Although Posluszny and DE/OLB Jarvis Moss are possibilities, Timmons seems to make the most sense as new head coach Mike Tomlin transitions from a 3-4 to a 4-3 defensive alignment. Timmons can provide some pass-rushing production in the team's current 3-4 system, but he also projects as a better fit as a weakside linebacker in the 4-3 scheme.
    • They also could use this pick on a defensive lineman (Branch or Carriker if available) or cornerback (Hall or Revis if available).
    • The Steelers would like to improve depth at guard, wide receiver and running back, but they're likely to do so after Round 1.


    16. Green Bay (8-
    Projected pick: +Marshawn Lynch, RB, Cal
    Needs: RB, S, TE, WR, DT, CB, OLB, G
    • The Packers are in desperate need of offensive playmakers, particularly at running back. After Peterson, Lynch is the best back the 2007 class has to offer. QB Brett Favre could help maximize Lynch's explosiveness and versatility if they're working in the same backfield next fall.
    • If Lynch is gone, or if they pass on him due to character/durability issues, the Packers could use this pick to select the best available tight end (Olsen) or wide receiver (Ginn, Bowe or Meachem).
    • Safety is the team's top defensive need, but it can address that position in a later round.




    17. Jacksonville (8-
    Projected pick: +Jamaal Anderson, DE, Arkansas
    Needs: S, DE, OLB, WR, CB, DT, MLB, G/C, PT, QB, TE
    • There is talk of the Jaguars using this pick on a safety, but if Anderson slips he is a much better value than any safety available in this scenario. Anderson has the size and agility to emerge as an impact full-time starter in the future. As a rookie, Anderson could rotate with Paul Spicer on the left side.
    • If DEs Adams, Carriker and Anderson are off the board, the Jaguars would likely use this pick on their highest-rated safety after Landry. The list would include Nelson, Texas' Michael Griffin and Miami's Brandon Meriweather.
    • They also could take one of the next best DEs in either Moss or Purdue's Anthony Spencer.


    18. Cincinnati (8-
    Projected pick: +Darrelle Revis, CB, Pittsburgh
    Needs: CB, WR, OLB, TE, DT, S, OT, QB, DE, G
    • The Bengals are likely to use this pick on the best defensive player available (with no character concerns), particularly at cornerback, defensive tackle and outside linebacker. Revis' outstanding workout at Pittsburgh's pro day last month helped solidify his standing as one of the top two corners available in the 2007 class. Revis is instinctive in coverage, he supports the run effectively and he also has value as a potential punt return specialist.
    • If Revis doesn't slip to No. 18, the Bengals could use this pick on Texas' Aaron Ross, who is widely considered the next best cornerback prospect.
    • DT Branch would be tough to pass on if he slipped this far.
    • Other possibilities on the defensive side of the ball include DT Justin Harrell (Tennessee), safeties Nelson and Griffin, and OLBs Timmons, Paul Posluszny and John Beason.
    • The only two offensive players the Bengals have shown interest in are TE Olsen and WR/RS Ginn.




    19. Tennessee (8-
    Projected pick: +Ted Ginn Jr., WR, Ohio State
    Needs: WR, RB, CB, DE, DT, MLB, G/O, S, OLB, QB
    • The Titans would be elated if Ginn slipped to them at No. 19. He has the speed to stretch the field vertically for QB Vince Young, who needs more weapons to work with on the perimeter. The Titans would benefit from Ginn's world-class speed in the return game, especially considering the suspension of Pacman Jones and the free-agency departure of Bobby Wade.
    • Bowe and Meachem are two other possibilities at wide receiver.
    • Tennessee also has a need for a pass-rushing defensive end (Anderson, Moss and Spencer) and depth at cornerback (Hall, Revis and Ross).
    • Finally, the team would have to consider RB Lynch should he fall this far.




    20. N.Y. Giants (8-
    Projected pick: Aaron Ross, CB/RS, Texas
    Needs: OT, CB, OLB, WR, DT, RB, TE, G/C, PT, PK, ILB
    • The Giants have several needs they could address at this spot, including the cornerback position. Ross has the size, instincts and playmaking ability to emerge as a difference maker early in his career. Ross also can help in the return game, which adds to his value.
    • David Diehl is penciled in as the team's starting left tackle right now, so Central Michigan's Joe Staley would be awfully tempting here.
    • Despite the recent addition of Kavika Mitchell, the Giants still need to upgrade their outside linebacker position. Timmons, Posluszny and Beason would all be candidates if available at No. 20 overall.
    • The Giants could surprise if they deem a great value available at defensive tackle (Branch) or wide receiver (Ginn, Bowe and Meachem).




    21. Denver (9-7)
    Projected pick: +Jarvis Moss, DE/OLB, Florida
    Needs: DE, WR, S, OT, DT, MLB, RB, CB
    • The Broncos have four picks on the first day, so moving up in the first round is a possibility. Considering the depth at their top positions of need (DE, WR, S), it also wouldn't surprise me a bit if Denver took a deal to move down.
    • The Broncos solidified their secondary by trading for Dre' Bly, who will start opposite Champ Bailey. Drafting a pass-rushing threat like Moss is a logical step to help fix a pass defense that ranked 21st in 2006.
    • Purdue DE Anthony Spencer is moving up the boards and could easily go ahead of Moss as the fourth end taken.
    • If stuck at No. 21 with no satisfying defensive end prospect to choose from, OT Staley, WRs Bowe and Meachem and safeties Nelson, Meriweather and Griffin would all be possibilities.




    22. Dallas (9-7)
    Projected pick: Dwayne Bowe, WR, LSU
    Needs: CB, WR, S, OT, DE, PK, C, NT, ILB, OLB
    • The Cowboys have done a nice job of filling their holes during free agency, which gives them some freedom early in the draft. They have interest in moving down if they get the right deal. Otherwise, they will take the best available cornerback, wide receiver, offensive tackle or edge rusher at No. 22.
    • In this scenario, Bowe is the best fit. The 6-foot-2, 222-pound wideout displays the size, agility and playmaking skills to develop into a quality starter at the next level. As a rookie in 2007, Bowe could serve as an excellent No. 3 option behind aging veterans Terrell Owens and Terry Glenn.
    • Signing Ken Hamlin certainly does not preclude the Cowboys from using this pick on a safety such as Nelson, Griffin or Meriweather.
    The Cowboys should also consider a cornerback like Ross, an offensive tackle like Staley or a 3-4 rush-linebacker like Spencer, if available.





    23. Kansas City (9-7)
    Projected pick: Justin Harrell, DT, Tennessee
    Needs: WR, OT, DT, CB, DE, QB, G, FB, LB, C
    • Harrell is moving up draft boards because he's regained full strength after suffering a torn biceps as a senior. Additionally, there isn't enough supply at the defensive tackle position to meet the demand of interested NFL teams. The Chiefs can stay ahead of the curve by nabbing Harrell here.
    • If Kansas City doesn't go with Harrell, it could find a similar value at cornerback with Arkansas' Chris Houston or offensive tackle with Staley.
    • The Chiefs have a pressing need for a playmaking wide receiver, but it's not their style to spend a high pick at that position. They could surprise by taking Bowe or Meachem at No. 23. Otherwise, the Chiefs can take advantage of this year's deep crop of receivers in a later round.




    24. New England (12-4) (from Seattle)
    Projected pick: +Reggie Nelson, S, Florida
    Needs: ILB, S, CB, OLB, RB, OT, QB, P, NT
    • The Patriots, who own 10 picks overall, have made 23 draft-day trades during the Bill Belichick/Scott Pioli era, which dates back to 2000. So don't count out a deal with one of their two first-round picks in this year's draft.
    • The Patriots' top needs exist at inside linebacker and safety. In this scenario, Nelson is the best available option. At 6-0 and 198 pounds, Nelson has very good range and playmaking potential as a centerfielder-type free safety. Head coach Bill Belichick loves players from Florida because he has tremendous respect for coach Urban Meyer.
    • The team has spent quality time with Meriweather during the pre-draft process and Griffin is another possibility if New England elects to draft a safety at No. 28.
    • The Patriots never act as if they're handcuffed by needs during draft weekend, but the Asante Samuel situation should increase their interest in this year's cornerback crop. Ross would be a possibility if available at No. 24 overall. If not, the team has shown interest in Fresno State CB Marcus McCauley, which it could nab later in this round or by trading up into the top half of Round 2.




    25. N.Y. Jets (10-6)
    Projected pick: Anthony Spencer, DE/OLB, Purdue
    Needs: CB, OLB, TE, WR, NT, ILB,C, S
    • The Jets should take advantage of their good fortune if Spencer is still on the board at No. 25. Undersized with very good speed and up-the-field playmaking skills, Spencer could be a steal late in the first round if he builds on the progress he made as a senior at Purdue (nation-best 26.5 tackles for loss). He would be an ideal fit opposite DE/OLB Bryan Thomas when the Jets line up in their 3-4 look, and he could provide depth at defensive end when the team is using a four-man front.
    • TE Olsen and DT Harrell are two other prospects the Jets will target if available at No. 25.
    • Considering their need to upgrade at cornerback, CB Houston should also be on the Jets' short list of prospects in this scenario. Teams have differing opinions regarding Houston's value. Although he certainly has room to improve with regards to his technique and overall run-support skills, Houston is blessed with outstanding speed, athleticism and upper-body strength. However, it's not typically the style of the Bill Parcells/Belichick coaching tree to spend a high pick on the cornerback position.




    26. Philadelphia (10-6)
    Projected pick: Brandon Meriweather, S, Miami-FL
    Needs: CB, S, DE, OLB, RB, WR, TE, MLB, PK, DT
    • Although the Eagles certainly can use depth at several different positions, it's hard to find a glaring weakness at any starting spot on their depth chart. One thing is certain, the Eagles will not be handcuffed by positions of need in this year's draft.
    • Meriweather is a good value here because of his versatility and toughness, so long as the Eagles are comfortable with his character. The team could use Meriweather as insurance at the safety position, as Brian Dawkins is 34 and Sean Considine is still unproven.
    • Other possibilities in this scenario could include S Griffin, CB Houston, and OLBs Posluszny and Beason.




    27. New Orleans (10-6)
    Projected pick: Paul Posluszny, LB, Penn State
    Needs: DT, LB, DC, WR, TE, DE, G/C, QB
    • The Saints would like to use this pick on the best available defensive prospect, particularly at linebacker or defensive tackle. The career tackles leader at Penn State, Posluszny is instinctive, quick and tough enough to eventually emerge as an upgrade at outside linebacker for the Saints.
    • DT Harrell would be tough to pass on if he falls.
    • Beason and Harris are two more linebackers New Orleans would consider with this selection.
    • The Saints could still take a cornerback should the right value (Ross or Houston) fall to them at No. 27. However, the team is no longer handcuffed by that need after signing restricted free agent Jason David -- assuming the Colts opt not to match the offer by Friday.
    • Although it's unlikely the Eagles would use a first-round pick on a wide receiver, they do need depth at the position and could take advantage of a great value falling in their lap, such as Ginn, Bowe or Meachem.



    28. New England (12-4)
    Projected pick: +John Beason, LB, Miami-FL
    • After landing S Nelson four picks earlier, the team could use this pick on the best available linebacker. New England would consider Michigan's David Harris here, but Beason is the better value. He's instinctive, quick and tough enough to develop into a good starter at inside linebacker in the team's 3-4 scheme. Belichick's system is complex, which is why the team typically avoids drafting linebackers high. However, Beason would have ample time to learn as a backup in 2007 behind aging veteran ILBs Tedy Bruschi and Mike Vrabel.
    • As is always the case with the Patriots, don't be surprised if they stray from their needs and take advantage of a player who falls to them at No. 28 overall. Some examples could include OT Staley, Auburn G Ben Grubbs, USC C Ryan Kalil, WR Bowe, DT Harrell or OLB/DE Spencer.




    29. Baltimore (13-3)
    Projected pick: Joe Staley, OT, Central Michigan
    Needs: CB, OT, OLB, ILB, FB, C/G, QB, S, DE
    • The Ravens will be extremely fortunate if Staley falls to them at No. 29. He's a fast-rising prospect with excellent feet and the frame to get bigger and stronger. With Jonathan Ogden threatening to retire, Staley becomes the future at left tackle for the Ravens.
    • Baltimore could also look to target the best available cornerback or linebacker with this selection. CB Houston would be a possibility in this scenario, as would ILB Harris. The team would be even more tempted to pull the trigger on OLB/DE Spencer should he fall to them here.
    • Don't rule out C Kalil, G Grubbs, OT Tony Ugoh (Arkansas) and OG/OT Justin Blalock (Texas) if Staley is off the board.
    • Finally, GM Ozzie Newsome has built the Ravens by drafting the best available player rather than reaching for prospects at positions of need. So, if a player of superior value falls to them here, don't be surprised if the Ravens take him instead of the best available offensive lineman, linebacker or cornerback.




    30. San Diego (14-2)
    Projected pick: +Robert Meachem, WR, Tennessee
    Needs: WR, S, ILB, CB, DL, RB, G, OT, OLB, LS
    • Meachem could easily be off the board in the top 20. Needless to say, the Chargers would be stoked to get him at No. 30. Although he may never be a pure No. 1 receiver in the NFL, Meachem has the speed and playmaking skills to take attention away from RB LaDainian Tomlinson and TE Antonio Gates.
    • Ohio State's Anthony Gonzalez and USC's Dwayne Jarrett and Steve Smith would be the other wide receiver possibilities with this pick.
    • The team also could take the best available safety or linebacker with this pick. Some options could include safeties Griffin and Meriweather, as well as LBs Beason and Harris.





    31. Chicago (13-3)
    Projected pick: +Dwayne Jarrett, WR, USC
    Needs: DT, OLB, WR, TE, RB, OT, QB, S, G, PT
    • The Bears have bigger needs at defensive tackle and outside linebacker, but Jarrett is a much better value than any player remaining at those positions in this scenario. Despite his subpar workout results at USC's pro day, Jarrett is one of the top five receivers in this class and he's enough of a playmaker to warrant late-first round consideration.
    • Gonzalez and Smith would be the other wide receiver possibilities for the Bears with this pick.
    • The Bears also should look to address the outside linebacker position early, even if they fail to trade disgruntled starter Lance Briggs prior to draft weekend. Beason or Posluszny would be great values if either falls to them at No. 31 overall.
    • Assuming Okoye and Harrell are off the board, the Bears will need to find depth for their one-gap defensive tackle spot later in this draft.
    • Don't be surprised if the Bears take advantage of a good value falling to them at any other position, particularly along the offensive line or at safety.




    32. Indianapolis (12-4)
    Projected pick: Michael Griffin, S, Texas
    Needs: OLB, DT, ILB, RB, G, CB, WR, OT, QB
    • The Colts have bigger needs at linebacker and defensive tackle, but Griffin is a good value because he brings experience and versatility to the table after notching 250 tackles during his last two seasons at Texas. He could provide quality depth behind Antoine Bethea and oft-injured Bob Sanders, especially with Mike Doss (Vikings) bolting in the offseason.
    • The team would like to see DT Harrell or LB Beason slip to this spot.
    • ILB Harris is a possibility but he just doesn't seem to fit the Colts' mold of undersized, speedy defenders.
    • Cornerback is a possibility here after the Colts lost both Super Bowl starters (David and Nick Harper) via free agency. However, the team won't reach for one in the first round because the Tampa 2 defense doesn't place as much value on cornerbacks as other schemes. CB Houston is the best available in this scenario but he's an undersized man-to-man coverage specialist who doesn't fit the Colts' prototype.
    • A guard like Grubbs or a WR like Smith would be quality values at positions that need an upgrade.


    Round 2
    33. Oakland: Ben Grubbs, G, Auburn
    34. Detroit: Trent Edwards, QB, Stanford
    35. Tampa Bay: Steve Smith, WR, USC
    36. Cleveland: +Chris Houston, CB, Arkansas
    37. Chicago (from Washington via N.Y. Jets): Tank Tyler, DT, N.C. State
    38. Arizona: +Eric Wright, CB, UNLV
    39. Atlanta (from Houston): Justin Blalock, G, Texas
    40. Miami: Drew Stanton, QB, Michigan State
    41. Minnesota: +Anthony Gonzalez, WR, Ohio State
    42. San Francisco: Ryan Kalil, C, USC
    43. Buffalo: Kenny Irons, RB, Auburn
    44. Atlanta: +Charles Johnson, DE, Georgia
    45. Carolina: David Harris, ILB, Michigan
    46. Pittsburgh: Ray McDonald, DE, Florida
    47. Green Bay: +Zach Miller, TE, Arizona State
    48. Jacksonville: Tanard Jackson, CB/S, Syracuse
    49. Cincinnati: +Sidney Rice, WR, South Carolina
    50. Tennessee: LaMarr Woodley, DE/OLB, Michigan
    51. N.Y. Giants: Tony Ugoh, OT, Arkansas
    52. St. Louis: Marcus McCauley, CB, Fresno State
    53. Dallas: Josh Wilson, CB, Maryland
    54. Kansas City: Craig Davis, WR, LSU
    55. Seattle: Aaron Sears, G/OT, Tennessee
    56. Denver: Eric Weddle, S, Utah
    57. Philadelphia: Brian Leonard, FB/RB, Rutgers
    58. New Orleans: Turk McBride, DT, Tennessee
    59. N.Y. Jets: Jonathan Wade, CB, Tennessee
    60. Miami (from New England): Paul Soliai, NT, Utah
    61. Baltimore: Stewart Bradley, OLB, Nebraska
    62. San Diego: Quincy Black, LB, New Mexico
    63. N.Y. Jets (from Chicago): Jason Hill, WR, Washington State
    64. Tampa Bay (from Indianapolis): Daymeion Hughes, CB, California




    Round 3
    65. Oakland: Tim Crowder, DE, Texas
    66. Detroit: Justin Durant, LB, Hampton
    67. Cleveland: +Antonio Pittman, RB, Ohio State
    68. Tampa Bay: Brandon Mebane, DT, California
    69. Arizona: Stephen Nicholas, OLB, South Florida
    70. Denver (from Washington): Doug Free, OT, Northern Illinois
    71. Miami: Aundrae Allison, WR, East Carolina
    72. Minnesota: Quentin Moses, DE/OLB, Georgia
    73. Houston: Jacoby Jones, WR, Lane
    74. Buffalo: Fred Bennett, CB, South Carolina
    75. Atlanta: James Marten, OT, Boston College
    76. San Francisco: Ikaika Alma-Francis, DE/OLB, Hawaii
    77. Pittsburgh: +Brandon Jackson, RB. Nebraska
    78. Green Bay: Josh Gattis, S, Wake Forest
    79. Jacksonville: David Clowney, WR, Virginia Tech
    80. Tennessee: Lorenzo Booker, RB, Florida State
    81. N.Y. Giants: Tim Shaw, LB, Penn State
    82. St. Louis: Victor Abiamiri, DE, Notre Dame
    83. Carolina: Sabby Piscitelli, S, Oregon State
    84. Kansas City: Marshal Yanda, OT/G, Iowa
    85. Seattle: Ben Patrick, TE, Delaware
    86. Denver: +Brandon Siler, ILB, Florida
    87. Dallas: Mason Crosby, PK, Colorado
    88. New Orleans: Kenny Scott, CB, Georgia Tech
    89. N.Y. Jets: Quinn Pitcock, DT, Ohio State
    90. Philadelphia: Brian Robison, DE, Texas
    91. New England: Tony Hunt, RB, Penn State
    92. Buffalo (from Baltimore): Ryan McBean, DT, Oklahoma State
    93. San Diego: +Chris Henry, RB, Arizona
    94. Chicago: Rufus Alexander, OLB, Oklahoma
    95. Indianapolis: Buster Davis, ILB, Florida State
    96. San Diego (compensatory selection): A.J. Davis, CB, N.C. State
    97. San Francisco (compensatory selection): Ryan Harris, OT, Notre Dame
    98. Indianapolis (compensatory selection): Usama Young, CB, Kent State
    99. Oakland (compensatory selection): Samson Satele, C, Hawaii


    Round 4
    100. Oakland: Marcus Thomas, DT, Florida
    101. Detroit: Anthony Arline, CB, Baylor
    102. Tampa Bay: Aaron Rouse, S, Virginia Tech
    103. Cleveland: Laurent Robinson WR, Illinois State
    104. San Francisco (from Washington): +Michael Bush, RB, Louisville
    105. Arizona: Dan Bazuin, DE, Central Michigan
    106. Minnesota: Josh Beekman, G, Boston College
    107. Houston: Kevin Kolb, QB, Houston
    108. Miami: Scott Chandler, TE, Iowa
    109. Atlanta: Kenny Scott, CB, Georgia Tech
    110. San Francisco: Gerald Alexander, S, Boise State
    111. Buffalo: Martrez Milner, TE, Georgia
    112. Green Bay: Mike Walker, WR, Central Florida
    113. Jacksonville: Troy Smith, QB, Ohio State
    114. Cincinnati: Zak DeOssie, LB, Brown
    115. Tennessee: Andy Alleman, G, Akron
    116. N.Y. Giants: Courtney Taylor, WR, Auburn
    117. St. Louis: Michael Okwo, LB, Stanford
    118. Carolina: Jay Moore, DE, Nebraska
    119. Pittsburgh: Mansfield Wrotto, G, Georgia Tech
    120. Seattle: Tarell Brown, CB, Texas
    121. Atlanta (from Denver): DeShawn Wynn, RB, Florida
    122. Dallas: Mario Henderson, OT, Florida State
    123. New Orleans (from Kansas City): Anthony Waters, ILB, Clemson
    124. San Francisco (from N.Y. Jets): Paul Williams, WR, Fresno State
    125. New Orleans (from Philadelphia): Baraka Atkins, DE, Miami
    126. New Orleans: Travarous Bain, CB, Hampton
    127. New England: Michael Coe, CB, Alabama State
    128. Tennessee (from Baltimore): John Wendling, S, Wyoming
    129. San Diego: Leroy Harris, C/G, N.C. State
    130. Chicago: +Darius Walker, RB, Notre Dame
    131. Indianapolis: +Rory Johnson, LB, Mississippi
    132. Pittsburgh (compensatory selection): Yamon Figurs, WR/RS, Kansas State
    133. Atlanta (compensatory selection): Derek Landri, DT, Notre Dame
    134. Baltimore (compensatory selection): Le'Ron McClain, FB, Alabama
    135. San Francisco (compensatory selection): Michael Allan, TE, Whitworth
    136. Indianapolis (compensatory selection): Brandon Frye, OT, Virginia Tech
    137. Baltimore (compensatory selection): +Ryan Smith, CB, Florida


    Round 5
    138. Oakland: Johnnie Lee Higgins, WR, UTEP
    139. Detroit: Matt Spaeth, TE, Minnesota
    140. Cleveland: Allen Barbre, OT, Missouri Southern State
    141. Tampa Bay: Kareem Brown, DT, Miami
    142. Arizona: Michael Johnson, S, Arizona
    143. Washington: Xavier Jackson, DE, Missouri
    144. Houston: Tony Taylor, OLB, Georgia
    145. Detroit (from Miami): Doug Datish, C, Ohio State
    146. Minnesota: David Irons, CB, Auburn
    147. San Francisco: Antwan Barnes, OLB, Florida International
    148. St. Louis (from Buffalo): Chris Davis, WR, Florida State
    149. Atlanta: H.B. Blades, ILB, Pittsburgh
    150. Jacksonville: Courtney Brown, CB, Cal Poly
    151. Cincinnati: Earl Everett, OLB, Florida
    152. Tennessee: Jay Alford, DT, Penn State
    153. N.Y. Giants: +Dwayne Wright, RB, Fresno State
    154. Detroit (from St. Louis): Jacob Ford, DE, Central Arkansas
    155. Carolina: Adam Koets, OT, Oregon State
    156. Pittsburgh: +C.J. Gaddis, CB, Clemson
    157. Green Bay: David Jones, CB, Wingate
    158. Detroit (from Denver): Eric Frampton, S, Washington
    159. Dallas: Marvin White, S, TCU
    160. Kansas City: Tim Mixon, CB/RS, California
    161. Seattle: DeAndre Jackson, CB, Iowa State
    162. Philadelphia: Chansi Stuckey, WR, Clemson
    163. New Orleans: Manuel Ramirez, G, Texas Tech
    164. N.Y. Jets: Desmond Bishop, ILB, California
    165. Oakland (from New England): Kevin Boss, TE, Western Oregon
    166. Baltimore: Isaiah Stanback, QB, Washington
    167. San Diego: Jermon Bushrod, OT, Towson
    168. Chicago: Julius Wilson, OT, UAB
    169. Indianapolis: Dan Mozes, C, West Virginia
    170. Pittsburgh (compensatory selection): Kelly Talavou, DT, Utah
    171. New England (compensatory selection): Justin Hickman, OLB, UCLA
    172. San Diego (compensatory selection): Walter Thomas, NT, NW Mississippi JC
    173. Indianapolis (compensatory selection): Joe Anoai, DT, Georgia Tech
    174. Baltimore (compensatory selection): +Ahmad Bradshaw, RB, Marshall


    Round 6
    175. Oakland: Chase Pittman, DE, Louisiana State
    176. Denver (from Detroit): Rhema McKnight, WR, Notre Dame
    177. N.Y. Jets (from Tampa Bay): Nate Harris, ILB, Louisville
    178. Cleveland: Kevin Payne, S, LA. Monroe
    179. Washington: Cameron Stephenson, G, Rutgers
    180. New England (from Arizona): Kelvin Smith, ILB, Syracuse
    181. Miami: Daniel Sepulveda, P, Baylor
    182. Minnesota: Dante Rosario, TE, Oregon
    183. Houston: Dashon Goldson, S, Washington
    184. Buffalo: +Jon Abbate, MLB, Wake Forest
    185. Atlanta: Justin Medlock, PK, UCLA
    186. San Francisco: Cory Anderson, FB, Tennessee
    187. Cincinnati: Clark Harris, TE, Rutgers
    188. Tennessee: Juwan Simpson, LB, Alabama
    189. N.Y. Giants: Enoka Lucas, C, Oregon
    190. St. Louis: Kolby Smith, RB, Louisville
    191. Carolina: Steve Breaston, WR/RS, Michigan
    192. Pittsburgh: Tyler Palko, QB, Pittsburgh
    193. Green Bay: Prescott Burgess, OLB, Michigan
    194. Jacksonville: Adam Podlesh, P, Maryland
    195. Dallas: Garrett Wolfe, RB, Northern Illinois
    196. Kansas City: Chris Leak, QB, Florida
    197. Seattle: Ken Darby, RB, Alabama
    198. Denver: Tyrone Moss, RB, Miami
    199. New Orleans: Jared Zabransky, QB, Boise State
    200. Dallas (from N.Y. Jets): Scott Stephenson, C, Iowa State
    201. Philadelphia: Brandon McDonald, CB, Memphis
    202. New England: Roy Hall, WR, Ohio State
    203. Baltimore: Tim Duckworth, G, Auburn
    204. Tennessee (from San Diego): Brandon Harrison, S, Stanford
    205. Washington (from Chicago): Dallas Baker, WR, Florida
    206. Tennessee (from Indianapolis): Matt Toeaina, DT, Oregon
    207. Baltimore (compensatory selection): KaMichael Hall, LB, Georgia Tech
    208. New England (compensatory selection): Matt Moore, QB, Oregon State
    209. New England (compensatory selection): Antonio Johnson, DT, Mississippi State
    210. Seattle (compensatory selection): Ryne Robinson, WR/RS, Miami-Ohio


    Round 7
    211. Oakland: Brent Curvey, DT, Iowa State
    212. Dallas (from Detroit through N.Y. Jets): Cliff Ryan, DT/DE, Michigan State
    213. Cleveland: James Jones, WR, San Jose State
    214. Tampa Bay: Jacob Bender, OT, Nicholls State
    215. Arizona: Jonny Harline, TE, BYU
    216. Washington: Dan Santucci, G, Notre Dame
    217. Minnesota: Corey Graham, CB, New Hampshire
    218. Houston: Chase Johnson, OT, Wyoming
    219. Miami: Reggie Lewis, CB, Florida
    220. New Orleans (from Atlanta): Derek Schouman, TE/FB, Boise State
    221. Chicago (from San Francisco through Cleveland): Daren Stone, S, Maine
    222. Buffalo: David Ball, WR, New Hampshire
    223. Tennessee: Syvelle Newton, WR, South Carolina
    224. N.Y. Giants: Ola Dagunduro, DT, Nebraska
    225. St. Louis: Jemalle Cornelius, WR, Florida
    226. Carolina: Zach Diles, ILB, Kansas State
    227. Pittsburgh: Jackie Battle, RB/FB, Houston
    228. Green Bay: Keith Jackson, DT, Arkansas
    229. Jacksonville: Dallas Sartz, OLB, Southern Cal
    230. Cincinnati: Jeff Rowe, QB, Nevada
    231. Kansas City: Noland Burchette, DE, Virginia
    232. Seattle: Sam Olajubutu, LB, Arkansas
    233. Denver: Craig Dahl, S, North Dakota State
    234. Dallas: Jeremy Clark, DT, Alabama
    235. Green Bay (from N.Y. Jets): Mike Otto, OT, Purdue
    236. Philadelphia: Joe Cohen, DE, Florida
    237. Dallas (from New Orleans): +Antwan Applewhite, DE, San Diego State
    238. Miami (from New England): Alonzo Coleman, RB, Hampton
    239. Buffalo (from Baltimore): Braden Jones, TE, Southern Illinois
    240. San Diego: Nick Leeson, LS, Virginia Tech
    241. Chicago: Joe Newton, TE, Oregon State
    242. Indianapolis: Jordan Palmer, QB, UTEP
    243. Green Bay (compensatory selection); Mike Jones, G, Iowa
    244. Atlanta (compensatory selection): Brandon Myles, WR/RS, West Virginia
    245. Tampa Bay (compensatory selection): Dane Uperesa, OT, Hawaii
    246. Tampa Bay (compensatory selection): Gijon Robinson. TE/FB, Missouri Western State
    247. New England (compensatory selection): Jason Snelling, FB, Virginia
    248. St. Louis (compensatory selection): Edgar Jones, DE, SE Missouri State
    249. St. Louis (compensatory selection): Chris Denman, OT, Fresno State
    250. N.Y. Giants (compensatory selection): Anthony Pudewell, TE, Nevada
    251. Jacksonville (compensatory selection): +Ramonce Taylor, RB/WR, Texas
    252. Jacksonville (compensatory selection): Uche Nwaneri, G/C, Purdue
    253. Cincinnati (compensatory selection): Herbert Taylor, OT, TCU
    254. Oakland (compensatory selection): Jon Cornish, RB, Kansas
    255. Detroit (compensatory selection): Joel Filani, WR, Texas Tech
    Carson Wentz ERA


    NFC East Titles:
    Playoff Appearances:
    NFC Title Games:
    Super Bowl Titles:

  • #2
    Would you rather have Tony Hunt in the 3rd than Leonard in the 2nd?
    Meriweather scares me since I can't get th FIU fight oiut of my mind.
    www.disciplerocks.com

    Comment


    • #3
      I'd rather have Hunt in the 3rd. A 2nd round pick on Leonard is foolish.

      Meriweather won't be an EAGLE. It's either Willis, Nelson, Ross or Olsen in round 1.

      -------------------------------Here's Kipers Latest-------------------------

      FIRST ROUND PROJECTION (APRIL 16)

      1 - Oakland Raiders - JaMarcus Russell - QB - LSU
      2 - Detroit Lions - Gaines Adams - DE - Clemson
      3 - Cleveland Browns - Brady Quinn - QB - Notre Dame
      4 - Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Calvin Johnson - WR - Georgia Tech
      5 - Arizona Cardinals - Joe Thomas - OT - Wisconsin
      6 - Washington Redskins - LaRon Landry - S - LSU
      7 - Minnesota Vikings - Adrian Peterson - RB - Oklahoma
      8 - Atlanta Falcons (from HOU) - Levi Brown - OT - Penn State
      9 - Miami Dolphins - Amobi Okoye - DT - Louisville
      10 - Houston Texans (from ATL) - Leon Hall - CB - Michigan
      11 - San Francisco 49ers - Alan Branch - DT - Michigan
      12 - Buffalo Bills - Patrick Willis - LB - Ole Miss
      13 - St. Louis Rams - Adam Carriker - DE - Nebraska
      14 - Carolina Panthers - Greg Olsen - TE - Miami
      15 - Pittsburgh Steelers - Lawrence Timmons - LB - Florida State
      16 - Green Bay Packers - Marshawn Lynch - RB - California
      17 - Jacksonville Jaguars - Jarvis Moss - DE - Florida
      18 - Cincinnati Bengals - Darrelle Revis - CB - Pittsburgh
      19 - Tennessee Titans - Ted Ginn Jr. - WR - Ohio State
      20 - New York Giants - Joe Staley - OT - Central Michigan
      21 - Denver Broncos - Jamaal Anderson - DE - Arkansas
      22 - Dallas Cowboys - Dwayne Jarrett - WR - USC
      23 - Kansas City Chiefs - Robert Meachem - WR - Tennessee
      24 - New England Patriots (from SEA) - Paul Posluszny - LB - Penn State
      25 - New York Jets - Aaron Ross - CB - Texas
      26 - Philadelphia Eagles - Reggie Nelson - S - Florida
      27 - New Orleans Saints - Chris Houston - CB - Arkansas
      28 - New England Patriots - Michael Griffin - S - Texas
      29 - Baltimore Ravens - Ryan Kalil - C - USC
      30 - San Diego Chargers - Dwayne Bowe - WR - LSU
      31 - Chicago Bears - Steve Smith - WR - USC
      32 - Indianapolis Colts - Justin Harrell - DT - Tennessee
      Carson Wentz ERA


      NFC East Titles:
      Playoff Appearances:
      NFC Title Games:
      Super Bowl Titles:

      Comment


      • #4
        I would love to see Nelson or Olsen in green.

        Comment


        • #5
          Well - if you are looking at mock drafts and want to know who is the most accurate - it is apparently Rick Gosselin at the Dallas Morning News. Here is how the rankings of mock drafts go by one website:

          http://www.thehuddlereport.com/top100/index.shtml

          and with that said - here is Gosselin's:

          No., Team Player Pos. College
          1. Oakland Calvin Johnson WR Georgia Tech
          COMMENT: Say goodbye to Randy Moss
          2. Detroit Gaines Adams DE Clemson
          COMMENT: Best pass-rusher in the draft
          3. Cleveland JaMarcus Russell QB LSU
          COMMENT: Browns like his 85-yard arm
          4. Tampa Bay Adrian Peterson HB Oklahoma
          COMMENT: Bucs need more big plays on offense
          5. Arizona Joe Thomas OT Wisconsin
          COMMENT: LT Leonard Davis left in free agency
          6. Washington LaRon Landry S LSU
          COMMENT: Landry-Sean Taylor a stout safety combo
          7. Minnesota Brady Quinn QB Notre Dame
          COMMENT: Too much value to pass up
          8. Atlanta Jamaal Anderson DE Arkansas
          COMMENT: DE Patrick Kerney left in free agency
          9. Miami Amobi Okoye DT Louisville
          COMMENT: DL Kevin Carter a salary-cap casualty
          10. Houston Darrelle Revis CB Pittsburgh
          COMMENT: Texans must play the Colts twice each year
          11. San Francisco Adam Carriker DE Nebraska
          COMMENT: DE Bryant Young getting up in years
          12. Buffalo Leon Hall CB Michigan
          COMMENT: CB Nate Clements left in free agency
          13. St. Louis Robert Meachem WR Tennessee
          COMMENT: Speed to complement WRs Isaac Bruce, Torry Holt
          14. Carolina Patrick Willis MLB Mississippi
          COMMENT: MLB Dan Morgan's concussions a concern
          15. Pittsburgh Ben Grubbs G Auburn
          COMMENT: Soft in middle with retirement of G Jeff Hartings
          16. Green Bay Marshawn Lynch RB California
          COMMENT: RB Ahman Green left in free agency
          17. Jacksonville Reggie Nelson S Florida
          COMMENT: Safety Deon Grant left in free agency
          18. Cincinnati Alan Branch DT Michigan
          COMMENT: Injecting 325 pounds into the run defense
          19. Tennessee Ted Ginn Jr. WR Ohio State
          COMMENT: Need a kick returner with Pacman suspended
          20. N.Y. Giants Levi Brown OT Penn State
          COMMENT: LT Luke Petitgout a salary-cap casualty
          21. Denver Jarvis Moss DE Florida
          COMMENT: Pass-rushing help arrives
          22. Dallas Michael Griffin S Texas
          COMMENT: Best special-teamer in the draft
          23. Kansas City Joe Staley OT Central Michigan
          COMMENT: Chiefs struggled in 2006 without LT Willie Roaf
          24. New England Lawrence Timmons OLB Florida State
          COMMENT: An old LB corps gets younger
          25. N.Y. Jets Aaron Ross CB Texas
          COMMENT: Can't have enough ballhawks in the AFC
          26. Philadelphia Jon Beason OLB Miami
          COMMENT: Eagles need to replace all three linebackers
          27. New Orleans Justin Harrell DT Tennessee
          COMMENT: Beefing up NFL's 23rd-ranked run defense
          28. New England Brandon Meriweather S Miami
          COMMENT: Cover safeties are hard to find
          29. Baltimore Dwayne Bowe WR LSU
          COMMENT: Ravens get bigger, younger, better on the flank
          30. San Diego Paul Posluszny MLB Penn State
          COMMENT: ILB Donnie Edwards a salary-cap casualty
          31. Chicago Greg Olsen TE Miami
          COMMENT: Another weapon for QB Rex Grossman
          32. Indianapolis Anthony Gonzalez WR Ohio State
          COMMENT: Third WR Brandon Stokley left in free agency

          Comment


          • #6
            Wow. That's nutty. Great site.

            Greg Olsen slips past us?

            Look at this crazy talent evaluation from that site:

            http://www.thehuddlereport.com/

            Final Talent Board Top Ten
            Posted by Drew Boylhart THR Senior Analyst / Category :: Huddle Notes
            Posted on April 23, 2007

            Attached File :



            It seems to me that some people still do not get how I do my top ten players in a draft. I try to look at the draft from a business
            owner's perspective, which is why a lot of people don't understand my rankings. What many people don't get is the fact that as a
            businessman, I would be looking for the surest and largest return on my investment. Remember, my profiles focus on Character,
            Intelligence, Passion and then Talent. I’m not going to list players in my personal top ten just so I can say I was right when a
            player is picked in the top ten. That’s not what I’m here for. I’m here to give you a point of view that is different from the
            average draft analyst because I have a unique way of looking at the draft from most people out there. Rob’s value board is set up to
            give you who most likely will be picked in the top ten and top 100. I’m here to show you how some NFL teams' real boards could be set
            up based on the parameters that I have mentioned above. Last year, I listed Nick Mangold in my top ten picks. I also explained at the
            time that I did not expect him to be drafted in the top ten, but I did think that he would be drafted in the first round. Rob had
            Mangold listed 29th on his board and the Jets picked him at the 27th pick. You see, it doesn’t matter to me that Nick wasn’t picked
            until the 27th pick of the draft. I listed him as a top ten pick that would impact right away and had the maturity to improve and
            handle the money and pressure of what would be expected of him as a top ten pick in the draft. I think Rob and I were both right.

            This year, my top ten has a player that looks like he will not even be listed on Rob’s value board as a first round pick. Again, this
            doesn't really weigh in my decision-making, as I’m listing players just like an NFL team would list them. Once I do that, I will then
            use Rob’s value board to see what round they might be listed in and plan my draft picks. Rob’s board does not dictate how I make my
            list, but his board will dictate when I pick my players. The point of all of this is to show you how 32 NFL teams having 32 different
            top ten players listed on their boards allows you to see how difficult it is for Rob to have the accuracy that he has in picking the
            top 100 players. For example, I know for a fact that there is one team in this draft without a need for a QB that has JaMarcus Russell
            not listed as a first round draft choice! I bet there are a lot of other teams that do not have him listed until the latter part of
            the first round. With that in mind, here are my final top ten picks this year based on Character, Intelligence, Passion and Talent.
            Try not to call me too many names.

            1- Calvin Johnson WR Georgia Tech – The point of listed Calvin here is that he still has not come close to reaching his full potential.
            Think about it!

            2- Brady Quinn QB Notre Dame – He did everything he could to get better. Brady also flourished under NFL style coaching and learned to
            play from the pocket this year. Brady still has room to improve and will. Brady Quinn is a franchise QB. Nitpick all you want, but
            he is ready for the big time.

            3- Adrian Peterson RB Oklahoma – He is quick and fast. Runs with passion between the tackles and wants to be one of the best ever to
            play the game. What more do you want in a RB?

            4- LeRon Landry S LSU - I moved Reggie Nelson out of the top ten because LeRon is more of a complete player with the speed to improve.
            This was a tough one for me because Reggie is such a good playmaker, but in the end, LeRon is the more mature football player.

            5- Adam Carriker DL Nebraska – Adam can play in any type of defense. He can play multiple positions on the D-line. He can stuff the
            run and is an excellent power pass rusher in the same mold as Reggie White and Michael Strahan. He also is not just motivated by money
            and will continue to improve after he receives the big money.

            6- Dwayne Bowe WR LSU – Dwayne has discovered this year that football can be fun. His eye surgery has been a gift that he is not
            taking for granted. He will impact for the right team and improve even more as a player for the team that drafts him. Calvin and
            Dwayne will be locked together every time someone talks about the great WR class of the 2007 Draft. He is smart and just learning what
            his potential is and how much more potential he has to keep improving.

            7- Joe Staley LT Central Michigan – He has the athletic talent and the passion to be better than Joe Thomas. Joe Thomas has peaked and
            has not shown me that he will improve and become a complete LT in the near future. Joe Staley has shown me that he has not reached his
            peak performance and will not stop improving.

            8- Brian Leonard RB Rutgers – I don’t know what more this kid has to do to prove that he is the 2nd best RB in this draft - but believe
            me I feel this kid's frustration. Other than Calvin Johnson, there is no other player in this draft that is more of a sure pick than
            Brain to impact right away for the team that drafts him. He has the ability to impact immediately because he is a match-up nightmare.

            9- Alan Branch DT Michigan – The Talent to dominate is there, but I had to move him out of my top five because he is a bit immature in
            his work habits. Believe me, it has nothing to do with reports of a bad workout. It has to do with the fact that he still has a lot
            to learn and has out-talented the players he has played against; however, at the next level, he is going to have to learn more about
            his position and that will take time. Remember LTI!

            10- Robert Meachem WR Tennessee – Robert has the athletic abilities equal to Calvin. He just needs more time to mature football-wise
            and get more confidence. I don’t think Robert realizes how talented he is!

            Now I know a lot of you are saying I’m crazy! You're saying to yourself, the old man has lost it! No JaMarcus Russell? He thinks Joe
            Staley will be better than Joe Thomas? What an idiot! The truth is that there are 32 different top ten boards out there and believe
            me when I say that no two are alike. Some are made up based on needs and will list Levi Brown in the top ten or Jamaal Anderson or
            Leon Hall and Gaines Adams, and how about Amobi Okoye or Ted Ginn or even Patrick Willis in the top ten. There might even be a team
            that lists Marshawn Lynch ahead of Adrian Peterson! Oh, when will the horrors stop?! How could that be? Everyone knows that Adrian
            is the best RB in this draft! That is everybody but those one or two teams who think otherwise. If you read my profiles on these
            players and then have read the profiles that I have done on your own personal top ten picks, I think you will see the difference and
            the reasons why I picked the players that I have picked. Remember, out of all the draft sites on the Internet, I’m one of the few guys
            that actually looks at film from the college season. This is why you will see a big discrepancy in my profiles as compared to others.
            I don’t cut and paste from other sites and even if you disagree with me on a player, you can be sure that it is my own honest opinion.


            I do this list every year to try to make you all realize that the draft comes down to an opinion based on an infinite number of
            different reasons. I know in my heart that my way of profiling players cuts down on the mistakes in a draft. Others think their way
            of profiling cuts down on the mistakes. The players that I have picked I feel are not motivated by money alone. That is a big issue
            for me. I want to pick players that want to be the best on the field and will strive to continue to be the best off the field. I want
            players that want to be paid like they are the best because they prove it on the field on every down. I want to draft players that
            once they receive the big money they feel the obligation to prove they deserve the big money. I do not want players who show up when
            they want to play or players who feel they are the best right now because they are listed as a top pick in a draft. I will not pick
            players who look the part, but don’t play the part. As much as some of you might disagree with my top ten picks, I truly believe that
            every one of the players I picked have the talent and room to improve and will never stop trying no matter what round they are taken
            in or how much money they receive in this draft. Isn’t that what the draft is all about? Choosing talented players who will never
            stop trying to improve no matter how much money they have? It is as far as I’m concerned! List whomever you want in your top ten and
            then use Rob’s value board to see what round it is most likely the player will be picked in. That’s what I would do if I owned an NFL
            team.
            Carson Wentz ERA


            NFC East Titles:
            Playoff Appearances:
            NFC Title Games:
            Super Bowl Titles:

            Comment


            • #7
              One other cool tool everyone might want to have come this weekend and say "Was that guy really suppose to go at this point in the draft?"

              http://profootballweekly.com/PFW/NFLDra ... 041007.htm

              Comment


              • #8
                Nelson is a cover 2 safety, no?

                He dos not really fit our system so why would we pick him in the first round?
                Eliminate distractions, create energy, fear nothing, and attack everything.

                -Andy Reid

                Comment


                • #9
                  SI has Nelson coming to the Eagles at 26 also.
                  www.disciplerocks.com

                  Comment


                  • #10
                    Originally posted by BIGPHILLY
                    I'd rather have Hunt in the 3rd. A 2nd round pick on Leonard is foolish.

                    Meriweather won't be an EAGLE. It's either Willis, Nelson, Ross or Olsen in round 1.
                    If they can really get Hunt in the 3rd, use that 2nd on an area of greater need, ie. LB, S, even TE if someone they really like drops to them.
                    www.disciplerocks.com

                    Comment


                    • #11
                      107. Houston: Kevin Kolb, QB, Houston
                      Carson Wentz ERA


                      NFC East Titles:
                      Playoff Appearances:
                      NFC Title Games:
                      Super Bowl Titles:

                      Comment


                      • #12
                        Originally posted by BIGPHILLY
                        107. Houston: Kevin Kolb, QB, Houston
                        I guess you think Kolb is a reach!

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