Disclaimer: Draft grades are worth as much as mock drafts...that is, they're good for entertainment and discussion, but that's about it. Agree with what's written? Great. Disagree? That's cool too. Just don't take it seriously!! I don't agree with the people who say you can't grade a draft until three years down the road. Grades are based on how their draft is viewed at this moment and are based on the potential of a draft class. Grades three years from now are based on hind-sight and are based on actual performance of the draft class.
One change from previous years - since I graded the entire first round, I will not include the team's first round pick in any category.
Rnd 1 - Star Lotulelei, DT
Rnd 2 - Kawann Short, DT
Rnd 3 - Frank Alexander, DE** (drafted in 2012)
Rnd 4 - Edmund Kugbila, OG
Rnd 5 - A.J. Klein, ILB
Rnd 6 - Kenjon Barner, RB
Rnd 7 - Louis Murphy, WR** (traded to Oakland for Murphy)
**Denotes a draft pick used prior to the draft
Best Value: Kawann Short
The questions on how good of a motor are what sent Short to the second round, but I have no doubt he'll be a terrific NFL player. He'll be a backup to Dwan Edwards, but could easily be a starter in the league. The Panthers have gone from question marks in their interior to having one of the best in the league in quality and depth. Love this pick.
Most Intriguing: Edmund Kugbila
Last year Carolina took small-school guard Amini Silatolu and they continue that trend with Kugbila. He's a bit more raw than Silatolu so he'll be a backup in 2013, but he has the potential to develop into a quality starter. If he does, this will be a fourth round pick well spent.
Most questionable: Frank Alexander
Giving up a sixth last year and this year's third on a player that notched all of 2.5 sacks is questionable to say the least. Alexander is a depth player and although he provided good "value" in the fourth round last year, to give up a third rounder this year for a depth player just doesn't make much sense.
One to watch: Kenjon Barner
It's no secret that Carolina has had a crowded backfield for quite some time and it appears not much has changed. I expect Barner to be the future DeAngelo Williams. He's a bigger version of the Niners LeMichael James as he displays great hands, but brings a more power. In 2012 he totaled 1,767 yards and 21 TD (along with 409 receiving yards and 5 more TDs) and I think he will be a future starter for the Panthers.
Overall Grade: B
I love the value of Lotulelei, Short, and Barner, but the rest of the draft isn't anything to rave about. As mentioned, a third rounder is a steep price for Alexander and they spent their seventh rounder on Louis Murphy who they let go in free agency after the 2012 season. I do like Kugbila and A.J. Klein should develop into a quality backup for the 2012 Defensive Rookie of the Year, Luke Kuechly.
Fantasy Spin:
As much as I like what the Panthers did for the interior of their defensive line, I don't think they did enough in the secondary to make this defense any more than a match-up play. On offense, this draft really didn't help fantasy owners much, but those in keeper and dynasty leagues should keep an eye on how Barner is used.
Thursday, May 23, 2013
Sunday, May 19, 2013
2013 Draft Grades - Buffalo Bills
Disclaimer: Draft grades are worth as much as mock drafts...that is, they're good for entertainment and discussion, but that's about it. Agree with what's written? Great. Disagree? That's cool too. Just don't take it seriously!! I don't agree with the people who say you can't grade a draft until three years down the road. Grades are based on how their draft is viewed at this moment and are based on the potential of a draft class. Grades three years from now are based on hind-sight and are based on actual performance of the draft class.
One change from previous years - since I graded the entire first round, I will not include the team's first round pick in any category.
Rnd 1 - E.J. Manuel, QB
Rnd 2 - Robert Woods, WR
Rnd 2 - Kiko Alonso, ILB
Rnd 3 - Marquise Goodwin, WR
Rnd 4 - Duke Williams, S
Rnd 5 - Jonathan Meeks, DB
Rnd 6 - Dustin Hopkins, K
Rnd 7 - Chris Gragg, TE
Best Value: Robert Woods
Several mock drafts, including my own, had Woods going in the first round. He's one of the most pro-ready receivers in this draft and pairing him with Stevie Johnson gives the Bills the best two starters they've had in a very long time. Woods is a future star in Buffalo, as long as they can develop E.J. Manuel into a quality QB. I think that will happen.
One change from previous years - since I graded the entire first round, I will not include the team's first round pick in any category.
Rnd 1 - E.J. Manuel, QB
Rnd 2 - Robert Woods, WR
Rnd 2 - Kiko Alonso, ILB
Rnd 3 - Marquise Goodwin, WR
Rnd 4 - Duke Williams, S
Rnd 5 - Jonathan Meeks, DB
Rnd 6 - Dustin Hopkins, K
Rnd 7 - Chris Gragg, TE
Best Value: Robert Woods
Several mock drafts, including my own, had Woods going in the first round. He's one of the most pro-ready receivers in this draft and pairing him with Stevie Johnson gives the Bills the best two starters they've had in a very long time. Woods is a future star in Buffalo, as long as they can develop E.J. Manuel into a quality QB. I think that will happen.
Saturday, May 18, 2013
2013 Draft Grades - Baltimore Ravens
Disclaimer: Draft grades are worth as much as mock drafts...that is, they're good for entertainment and discussion, but that's about it. Agree with what's written? Great. Disagree? That's cool too. Just don't take it seriously!! I don't agree with the people who say you can't grade a draft until three years down the road. Grades are based on how their draft is viewed at this moment and are based on the potential of a draft class. Grades three years from now are based on hind-sight and are based on actual performance of the draft class.
One change from previous years - since I graded the entire first round, I will not include the team's first round pick in any category.
Rnd 1 - Matt Elam, FS
Rnd 2 - Arthur Brown, ILB
Rnd 3 - Brandon Williams, DT
Rnd 4 - John Simon, DE
Rnd 4 - Kyle Juszczyk, FB
Rnd 5 - Ricky Wagner, OT
Rnd 6 - Kapron Lewis-Moore, DE
Rnd 6 - Ryan Jensen, OT
Rnd 7 - Aaron Mellette, WR
Rnd 7 - Marc Anthony, CB
Best Value: Arthur Brown
The Ravens just have a knack for getting great players. Some projections had him going as high as the 20th overall pick to Chicago. Most had him going in the second, but I feel like the second round was a value for a player this talented. The Ravens watched him fall to the 56th pick and they moved up to take their replacement for Ray Lewis. No, he will not have the same kind of impact as Lewis had, but no one would. Brown will make his own mark on this team as a technician who is in the right place at the right time to make the needed play. He's not known for delivering big shots, but his range is among the best in this class and he's excellent in coverage. Add in his ability to play inside or outside and this was a great pick for the Ravens.
One change from previous years - since I graded the entire first round, I will not include the team's first round pick in any category.
Rnd 1 - Matt Elam, FS
Rnd 2 - Arthur Brown, ILB
Rnd 3 - Brandon Williams, DT
Rnd 4 - John Simon, DE
Rnd 4 - Kyle Juszczyk, FB
Rnd 5 - Ricky Wagner, OT
Rnd 6 - Kapron Lewis-Moore, DE
Rnd 6 - Ryan Jensen, OT
Rnd 7 - Aaron Mellette, WR
Rnd 7 - Marc Anthony, CB
Best Value: Arthur Brown
The Ravens just have a knack for getting great players. Some projections had him going as high as the 20th overall pick to Chicago. Most had him going in the second, but I feel like the second round was a value for a player this talented. The Ravens watched him fall to the 56th pick and they moved up to take their replacement for Ray Lewis. No, he will not have the same kind of impact as Lewis had, but no one would. Brown will make his own mark on this team as a technician who is in the right place at the right time to make the needed play. He's not known for delivering big shots, but his range is among the best in this class and he's excellent in coverage. Add in his ability to play inside or outside and this was a great pick for the Ravens.
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
2013 Draft Grades - Atlanta Falcons
Disclaimer: Draft grades are worth as much as mock drafts...that is, they're good for entertainment and discussion, but that's about it. Agree with what's written? Great. Disagree? That's cool too. Just don't take it seriously!! I don't agree with the people who say you can't grade a draft until three years down the road. Grades are based on how their draft is viewed at this moment and are based on the potential of a draft class. Grades three years from now are based on hind-sight and are based on actual performance of the draft class.
One change from previous years - since I graded the entire first round, I will not include the team's first round pick in any category.
Rnd 1 - Desmond Trufant, CB
Rnd 2 - Robert Alford, CB
Rnd 4 - Malliciah Goodman, DE
Rnd 4 - Levine Toilolo, TE
Rnd 5 - Stansly Maponga, DE
Rnd 7 - Kemal Ishmael, DB
Rnd 7 - Zeke Motta, SS
Rnd 7 - Sean Renfree, QB
Best Value: Robert Alford
Alford was projected by some to be a late first round pick so getting the opportunity to select him in the bottom of the second gave Atlanta their best value pick in the draft. Alford has very quick feet and transitions smoothly in coverage. He's good enough to give first round pick, Desmond Trufant, a run for his money as Atlanta's top rookie.
One change from previous years - since I graded the entire first round, I will not include the team's first round pick in any category.
Rnd 1 - Desmond Trufant, CB
Rnd 2 - Robert Alford, CB
Rnd 4 - Malliciah Goodman, DE
Rnd 4 - Levine Toilolo, TE
Rnd 5 - Stansly Maponga, DE
Rnd 7 - Kemal Ishmael, DB
Rnd 7 - Zeke Motta, SS
Rnd 7 - Sean Renfree, QB
Best Value: Robert Alford
Alford was projected by some to be a late first round pick so getting the opportunity to select him in the bottom of the second gave Atlanta their best value pick in the draft. Alford has very quick feet and transitions smoothly in coverage. He's good enough to give first round pick, Desmond Trufant, a run for his money as Atlanta's top rookie.
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
2013 Draft Grades - Arizona Cardinals
Disclaimer: Draft grades are worth as much as mock drafts...that is, they're good for entertainment and discussion, but that's about it. Agree with what's written? Great. Disagree? That's cool too. Just don't take it seriously!! I don't agree with the people who say you can't grade a draft until three years down the road. Grades are based on how their draft is viewed at this moment and are based on the potential of a draft class. Grades three years from now are based on hind-sight and are based on actual performance of the draft class.
One change from previous years - since I graded the entire first round, I will not include the team's first round pick in any category.
Rnd 1: Jonathan Cooper, OG
Rnd 2: Kevin Minter, ILB
Rnd 3: Tyrann Mathieu, CB
Rnd 4: Alex Okafor, DE
Rnd 5: Stepfan Taylor, RB
Rnd 6: Ryan Swope, WR
Rnd 6: Andre Ellington, RB
Rnd 7: D.C. Jefferson, TE
Best value: Alex Okafor
Many projects had Okafor as an early to mid second round pick and a few predictions had him going in the late first. Okafor is a relentless pass rusher, but doesn't have the "quick twitch" movement skills to be elite at the next level. He does everything well and will play as an outside linebacker in Arizona's 3-4. With his experience at defensive end, he'll be able to stay in on nickel packages and be a three-down player.
One change from previous years - since I graded the entire first round, I will not include the team's first round pick in any category.
Rnd 1: Jonathan Cooper, OG
Rnd 2: Kevin Minter, ILB
Rnd 3: Tyrann Mathieu, CB
Rnd 4: Alex Okafor, DE
Rnd 5: Stepfan Taylor, RB
Rnd 6: Ryan Swope, WR
Rnd 6: Andre Ellington, RB
Rnd 7: D.C. Jefferson, TE
Best value: Alex Okafor
Many projects had Okafor as an early to mid second round pick and a few predictions had him going in the late first. Okafor is a relentless pass rusher, but doesn't have the "quick twitch" movement skills to be elite at the next level. He does everything well and will play as an outside linebacker in Arizona's 3-4. With his experience at defensive end, he'll be able to stay in on nickel packages and be a three-down player.
Friday, May 3, 2013
2013 NFL Draft - first round grades
OK, here's my grades for the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft. The
grades are based on how I feel the team did with it's choice of player
as well as it's choice to either stand pat and take their guy or move
around. The grade is also a reflection of the quality of player himself based on when he was taken.
1. KC - Eric Fisher, OT
Grade: B+
I'm not sure if this was the right move if the Chiefs are going to keep Brandon Albert (reports are they're opening negotiations with him). If that's the case, they should have kept RT Eric Winston along with Albert and selected NT/DE Star Lotulelei. Instead, they released Winston and put themselves in a position where they had to take a tackle. This pick came down to Fisher vs. Joekel. The argument for Joekel is the fact he played against top competition. The argument for Fisher is he's more athletic and powerful than Joekel. The Chiefs gamble on upside so between not trading out of the spot, not dealing Brandon Albert, and taking a player from a weaker conference, I couldn't give them higher than a B+.
2. JAC - Luke Joekel, OT
Grade: A+
This was the right move for the Jags. They didn't trade out of the spot, stayed put, and took arguably the best player in the draft. Their current left tackle has one year left on his contract. They now have some leverage in long-term negotiations with him or they can let him walk after this year and save the money for other free agents (left tackles are expensive). With two very good tackles, it'll be harder for the Jags' QB to make excuses for bad play...whoever that may be.
3. MIA (traded up with Oakland) - Dion Jordan, DE
Grade: B+
I give credit to Miami for charging up draft to get Jordan before the Eagles could take him. I'm not entirely sold on Jordan being a great fit as a 4-3 defensive end, but if they plan to use him in a role similar to how Denver uses Von Miller, Jordan could flourish. It's tough to give them too high of a grade based on a few things. First, his lack of production in college is a bit disconcerting. Added to that is the fact he's always been a 3-4 linebacker so there will be a learning curve and there's no proof he can make the switch. On top of that lack of experience, he won't be able to participate in any off season activities because the University of Oregon is on a quarters academic system, which will keep him away from the team. He'll show up at training camp, very raw. I do raise the grade based on the Dolphins only giving up a second round pick to move into the number three overall spot. That's unprecedented value.
4. PHI - Lane Johnson, OT
Grade: A-
Johnson is a bit of a risk since he only played tackle for two years (right tackle his junior year and left tackle his senior year), but his upside is higher than perhaps anyone in the entire draft. The Eagles needed another quality tackle to pair with Jason Peters, who will be returning from an Achilles injury. If Peters is 100% healthy, and Johnson pans out as expected, the Eagles will go from the horrible "starting" tackles they had last year to perhaps the best starting pair in the league. Johnson's athleticism is a perfect fit for the type of offense Chip Kelly wants to run. The only thing keeping this from being an A+ is the fact that he doesn't have a track record like Joekel.
5. DET - Ezekiel Ansah, DE
Grade: B+
I really would like to drop this grade to a B or B- due Ansah's inexperience, but the fact is this draft didn't have a lot of blue-chip players. Detroit didn't make a mistake and pass on a can't miss player and they had a desperate need at defensive end. Ansah has only played football since 2010, but he has a huge upside. The Lions had a first-hand look at him when they coached him during the week of the Senior Bowl so they know what they're getting. That fact also helps this grade.
1. KC - Eric Fisher, OT
Grade: B+
I'm not sure if this was the right move if the Chiefs are going to keep Brandon Albert (reports are they're opening negotiations with him). If that's the case, they should have kept RT Eric Winston along with Albert and selected NT/DE Star Lotulelei. Instead, they released Winston and put themselves in a position where they had to take a tackle. This pick came down to Fisher vs. Joekel. The argument for Joekel is the fact he played against top competition. The argument for Fisher is he's more athletic and powerful than Joekel. The Chiefs gamble on upside so between not trading out of the spot, not dealing Brandon Albert, and taking a player from a weaker conference, I couldn't give them higher than a B+.
2. JAC - Luke Joekel, OT
Grade: A+
This was the right move for the Jags. They didn't trade out of the spot, stayed put, and took arguably the best player in the draft. Their current left tackle has one year left on his contract. They now have some leverage in long-term negotiations with him or they can let him walk after this year and save the money for other free agents (left tackles are expensive). With two very good tackles, it'll be harder for the Jags' QB to make excuses for bad play...whoever that may be.
3. MIA (traded up with Oakland) - Dion Jordan, DE
Grade: B+
I give credit to Miami for charging up draft to get Jordan before the Eagles could take him. I'm not entirely sold on Jordan being a great fit as a 4-3 defensive end, but if they plan to use him in a role similar to how Denver uses Von Miller, Jordan could flourish. It's tough to give them too high of a grade based on a few things. First, his lack of production in college is a bit disconcerting. Added to that is the fact he's always been a 3-4 linebacker so there will be a learning curve and there's no proof he can make the switch. On top of that lack of experience, he won't be able to participate in any off season activities because the University of Oregon is on a quarters academic system, which will keep him away from the team. He'll show up at training camp, very raw. I do raise the grade based on the Dolphins only giving up a second round pick to move into the number three overall spot. That's unprecedented value.
4. PHI - Lane Johnson, OT
Grade: A-
Johnson is a bit of a risk since he only played tackle for two years (right tackle his junior year and left tackle his senior year), but his upside is higher than perhaps anyone in the entire draft. The Eagles needed another quality tackle to pair with Jason Peters, who will be returning from an Achilles injury. If Peters is 100% healthy, and Johnson pans out as expected, the Eagles will go from the horrible "starting" tackles they had last year to perhaps the best starting pair in the league. Johnson's athleticism is a perfect fit for the type of offense Chip Kelly wants to run. The only thing keeping this from being an A+ is the fact that he doesn't have a track record like Joekel.
5. DET - Ezekiel Ansah, DE
Grade: B+
I really would like to drop this grade to a B or B- due Ansah's inexperience, but the fact is this draft didn't have a lot of blue-chip players. Detroit didn't make a mistake and pass on a can't miss player and they had a desperate need at defensive end. Ansah has only played football since 2010, but he has a huge upside. The Lions had a first-hand look at him when they coached him during the week of the Senior Bowl so they know what they're getting. That fact also helps this grade.
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Justin Blackmon suspended four games
I just saw a report from KFFL that Justin Blackmon has been suspended for the first four games of the 2013 season for violating the league's substance abuse policy. Keep this in mind when drafting in a few months. Blackmon may be a bargain because he'll drop, but he's also a risk. If he has a four game suspension, that means he's received strikes before. One more, and he will receive a year-long suspension.
This was the chance the Jags took in selecting him. It really shouldn't be too shocking, it's just unfortunate that these extremely talented players can't figure out how lucky they are.
This was the chance the Jags took in selecting him. It really shouldn't be too shocking, it's just unfortunate that these extremely talented players can't figure out how lucky they are.
Thursday, April 25, 2013
FFT's Final Mock
1. Kansas City Chiefs - Eric Fisher, OT
OK, my first mock had Joekel, but I just like Fisher a little better and I think the Chiefs do as well. Why? I don't know, I just do.
2. Jacksonville Jaguars - Luke Joekel, OT
The Jags will be happy to take whatever tackle the Chiefs don't.
3. Miami Dolphins - Ezekiel Ansah, DE
The Dolphins move up, but not for Lane Johnson. The Lions are dead set on taking Ansah and I think Miami leaps over them to make sure they get him. They'll use one of their two second round picks to trade for Brandon Albert and if they can get Albert and Ansah with this draft, it will make them a real threat in the AFC East.
4. Philadelphia Eagles - Dion Jordon, OLB
The reports are that the Eagles love Mingo, but I can't see them taking him over Jordon, who already knows Kelly's defense. I know most teams would love for them to do just that though.
5. Detroit Lions - Lane Johnson, OT
With Ansah now off the board, The Lions go with a blind-side protector for Matthew Stafford.
Make the jump to see the rest...
OK, my first mock had Joekel, but I just like Fisher a little better and I think the Chiefs do as well. Why? I don't know, I just do.
2. Jacksonville Jaguars - Luke Joekel, OT
The Jags will be happy to take whatever tackle the Chiefs don't.
3. Miami Dolphins - Ezekiel Ansah, DE
The Dolphins move up, but not for Lane Johnson. The Lions are dead set on taking Ansah and I think Miami leaps over them to make sure they get him. They'll use one of their two second round picks to trade for Brandon Albert and if they can get Albert and Ansah with this draft, it will make them a real threat in the AFC East.
4. Philadelphia Eagles - Dion Jordon, OLB
The reports are that the Eagles love Mingo, but I can't see them taking him over Jordon, who already knows Kelly's defense. I know most teams would love for them to do just that though.
5. Detroit Lions - Lane Johnson, OT
With Ansah now off the board, The Lions go with a blind-side protector for Matthew Stafford.
Make the jump to see the rest...
Lemme 'Splain....the must have pick
Hi all,
The first installment for the season contains a bit of sarcasm, but may provide a bit of funny prophecy as well.
...with the (whatever mid-round pick) in the NFL draft, the Dallas Cowboys select.....Landry Jones, QB, Oklahoma!
Just think about it. Romo will not last forever. And Kyle Orton, however serviceable a QB he may be as a back up, is not someone you would hang a franchise tag on. The only "fitting" QB for the 'Boys is someone who has the first name the same as the last name of your most decorated coach in franchise history, and the same last name as your overbearing, fly by the seat of your pants, plastic faced owner.
Yes, this sounds like a pick drawn up from the depths of the Bros Grimm scariest tales that never made it to print. But the likelihood that this pick could become a reality is tangible. After all, Landry Jones was a projected first rounder to some if he had chosen to leave school last year. His team was doing well, his stats were good. I even think he was in some circles of Heisman talk at one point of another two years ago. Has he just had a bad year, like Barkley, or was his good year the outlier in his statistical resume?
Truth be told, his stats were really no different between the years, nor were his team's win-loss record. I think his publicity just couldn't keep up with the expectations thrown at QBs this year due to the outrageous year that Luck and RG3 had the year prior. I actually think he would be worth a look should he slide to the 4th rnd.
Lemme Sum Up! If there was a time to get a decent QB in the mid rounds, it's this years draft. And for the Cowboys, it only makes sense that if you do draft one, he has that name. Landry Jones.
The first installment for the season contains a bit of sarcasm, but may provide a bit of funny prophecy as well.
...with the (whatever mid-round pick) in the NFL draft, the Dallas Cowboys select.....Landry Jones, QB, Oklahoma!
Just think about it. Romo will not last forever. And Kyle Orton, however serviceable a QB he may be as a back up, is not someone you would hang a franchise tag on. The only "fitting" QB for the 'Boys is someone who has the first name the same as the last name of your most decorated coach in franchise history, and the same last name as your overbearing, fly by the seat of your pants, plastic faced owner.
Yes, this sounds like a pick drawn up from the depths of the Bros Grimm scariest tales that never made it to print. But the likelihood that this pick could become a reality is tangible. After all, Landry Jones was a projected first rounder to some if he had chosen to leave school last year. His team was doing well, his stats were good. I even think he was in some circles of Heisman talk at one point of another two years ago. Has he just had a bad year, like Barkley, or was his good year the outlier in his statistical resume?
Truth be told, his stats were really no different between the years, nor were his team's win-loss record. I think his publicity just couldn't keep up with the expectations thrown at QBs this year due to the outrageous year that Luck and RG3 had the year prior. I actually think he would be worth a look should he slide to the 4th rnd.
Lemme Sum Up! If there was a time to get a decent QB in the mid rounds, it's this years draft. And for the Cowboys, it only makes sense that if you do draft one, he has that name. Landry Jones.
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
FFT's mock draft - what I think they'll do
1. Kansas City Chiefs - Luke Joekel, OT
Although Eric Fisher has a lot of momentum and is now the number one tackle on some boards, I think the Chiefs stay with the pre Combine rankings and take Joekel first overall.
2. Jacksonville Jaguars - Eric Fisher, OT
Many mocks have the Jags taking either Dion Jordan, Geno Smith, or Sharrif Floyd. I think they go a different route and take Fisher. This team has a lot of holes and Fisher is arguably the best player in the draft.
3. Oakland Raiders - Sharrif Floyd, DT
The Raiders have been linked to Floyd for a while now. I've read that they're trying to trade down, but with both top tackles off the board, I don't think they'll find a trade partner unless someone wants to jump Philly for Dion Jordan or Star Lotulelei.
4. Arizona Cardinals - Lane Johnson, OT
Arizona decides it needs a LT to protect Carson Palmer and offers up a trade to a team they've dealt with before. Philly wants Dion Jordan, but they want to acquire picks even more.
5. Detroit Lions - Ezekiel Ansah, DE
Rumors suggest the Lions will take either an offensive tackle or Ansha. Those rumors are what led Arizona to trade up. I think even if Johnson's here at five, the Lions will still take Ansah. They apparently fell in love with Ansah when they coached him during the Senior Bowl practice week and in the game itself. Ansah has a huge upside, but he's a bit of a boom or bust since he only has a few years of football under his belt.
Make the jump to see the rest...
Although Eric Fisher has a lot of momentum and is now the number one tackle on some boards, I think the Chiefs stay with the pre Combine rankings and take Joekel first overall.
2. Jacksonville Jaguars - Eric Fisher, OT
Many mocks have the Jags taking either Dion Jordan, Geno Smith, or Sharrif Floyd. I think they go a different route and take Fisher. This team has a lot of holes and Fisher is arguably the best player in the draft.
3. Oakland Raiders - Sharrif Floyd, DT
The Raiders have been linked to Floyd for a while now. I've read that they're trying to trade down, but with both top tackles off the board, I don't think they'll find a trade partner unless someone wants to jump Philly for Dion Jordan or Star Lotulelei.
4. Arizona Cardinals - Lane Johnson, OT
Arizona decides it needs a LT to protect Carson Palmer and offers up a trade to a team they've dealt with before. Philly wants Dion Jordan, but they want to acquire picks even more.
5. Detroit Lions - Ezekiel Ansah, DE
Rumors suggest the Lions will take either an offensive tackle or Ansha. Those rumors are what led Arizona to trade up. I think even if Johnson's here at five, the Lions will still take Ansah. They apparently fell in love with Ansah when they coached him during the Senior Bowl practice week and in the game itself. Ansah has a huge upside, but he's a bit of a boom or bust since he only has a few years of football under his belt.
Make the jump to see the rest...
Friday, April 19, 2013
You're the GM of series....my second round results
Continuing the "You're the GM..." theme, I'm going to do a quick write
up of what I'd do in the second round (this is based on the Draft Re-Do)
33. New England Patriots (acquired by trading down with Jacksonville) - CB Jamar Taylor (first round pick - none)
New England needs corners and Jamar Taylor is watching his stock skyrocket right now. He one of the most complete corners in the draft and should be a day one starter.
34. San Francisco 49ers - DE Margus Hunt (first round pick - NT John Jenkins)
At 6'8", Hunt is not only a huge obstacle for quarterbacks to throw over, but for kickers to avoid as well. In college, he earned his nickname, "The Eastern Block" by blocking a total of 17 kicks. He's one of the top athletes in the draft who had one of the best Combines in recent memory and will upgrade the defensive end position immediately. Drafting him along with my first round choice of Jenkins gives the Niners a young core of players on the defensive line.
35. Miami Dolphins (acquired by trading up with Philadelphia) - OT Menelik Watson (first round pick - DE Bjoern Werner)
Miami still needs to fill the hole left by Jake long. They use some of the fire power they have in this draft (their first of two second round picks and a third) to move up and secure Watson who is climbing boards, I wouldn't be surprised at all if he goes in the first round, but in this mock he's here and the Dolphins make a big move to land him before the tackle-starved Lions and Cardinals.
36. Detroit Lions - OT Terron Armstead (first round pick - CB Dee Milliner)
The Lions would have to choose between Cornellius Carradine and an offensive tackle. The top two left are Armstead and Justin Pugh and I took Armstead because of his upside. He's probably my favorite small-school player in this draft and one of my favorites all-around. His huge upside and unbelievable toughness make him my clear choice for the Lions.
37. Cincinnati Bengals - DE Cornellius Carradine (first round pick - S Kenny Vaccaro)
Defensive end Michael Johnson is currently franchised by the Bengals and by selecting Carradine, they have his replacement in 2014. Carradine is coming off a major knee injury and is not expected to be ready for week one, but with Johnson locked up for one year, the Bengals can afford to let this first round talent heal up before leaning on him.
The rest of the second round, after the jump...
33. New England Patriots (acquired by trading down with Jacksonville) - CB Jamar Taylor (first round pick - none)
New England needs corners and Jamar Taylor is watching his stock skyrocket right now. He one of the most complete corners in the draft and should be a day one starter.
34. San Francisco 49ers - DE Margus Hunt (first round pick - NT John Jenkins)
At 6'8", Hunt is not only a huge obstacle for quarterbacks to throw over, but for kickers to avoid as well. In college, he earned his nickname, "The Eastern Block" by blocking a total of 17 kicks. He's one of the top athletes in the draft who had one of the best Combines in recent memory and will upgrade the defensive end position immediately. Drafting him along with my first round choice of Jenkins gives the Niners a young core of players on the defensive line.
35. Miami Dolphins (acquired by trading up with Philadelphia) - OT Menelik Watson (first round pick - DE Bjoern Werner)
Miami still needs to fill the hole left by Jake long. They use some of the fire power they have in this draft (their first of two second round picks and a third) to move up and secure Watson who is climbing boards, I wouldn't be surprised at all if he goes in the first round, but in this mock he's here and the Dolphins make a big move to land him before the tackle-starved Lions and Cardinals.
36. Detroit Lions - OT Terron Armstead (first round pick - CB Dee Milliner)
The Lions would have to choose between Cornellius Carradine and an offensive tackle. The top two left are Armstead and Justin Pugh and I took Armstead because of his upside. He's probably my favorite small-school player in this draft and one of my favorites all-around. His huge upside and unbelievable toughness make him my clear choice for the Lions.
37. Cincinnati Bengals - DE Cornellius Carradine (first round pick - S Kenny Vaccaro)
Defensive end Michael Johnson is currently franchised by the Bengals and by selecting Carradine, they have his replacement in 2014. Carradine is coming off a major knee injury and is not expected to be ready for week one, but with Johnson locked up for one year, the Bengals can afford to let this first round talent heal up before leaning on him.
The rest of the second round, after the jump...
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
You're the GM...Draft Re-Do
You're the GM...draft re-do
It's a tedious and time-consuming process to complete the "You're the GM of..." series and many events transpire between the first post to the last. With that in mind, I've decided to re-do the draft, based on what the teams did after I moved past them or what news of the prospects I've uncovered since selecting them to a certain team. For example, Arizona picking up Carson Palmer removes them from first round QB needs. That changes the entire complexion of the draft.
So, here's how I would draft for each team in the first round if I were their GM.
1. Kansas City Chiefs - OT Eric Fisher (prior pick - OT Luke Joekel)
The more I look at footage of Fisher, the more I like the way he plays. He seems stronger than Joekel and you can see a mean streak in his game where he tries to finish his block every time. Granted, Joekel faced better competition in college and should make a great tackle for some team. This is simply a matter of personal preference.
2. Jacksonville Jaguars - OT Luke Joekel (prior pick - OLB Jarvis Jones)
After much consideration, I have to go with the best available player for the Jags. The current left tackle is in the final year of his contract so Joekel can play on the right side this year and move over to the left next year. We have to protect our quarterback, whoever that may be, and this is the best way to do it.
3. Oakland Raiders - DT Star Loutelelei (prior pick - DT Star Loutelelei)
Nothing has changed for me with this pick. Nearly every mock and analyst is saying Sharrif Floyd will be the pick, and that may be, but if I were Oakland's GM, I'd take Star because, in my opinion, he'll be the better pro when it's all said and done.
4. Philadelphia Eagles - OT Lane Johnson (prior pick - OT Eric Fisher)
Johnson has flown up boards and although this is a bit of a reach, a franchise left tackle is a rare commodity and Johnson has more upside than any in the draft. The Eagles must fix their tackle position once and for all. Playing only one year at left tackle was not apparent during Senior Bowl week as he had a tremendous showing against the best senior defensive ends throughout practice.
5. Detroit Lions - CB Dee Millinter (prior pick - CB Dee Milliner)
In a lot of mocks, Esekiel Ansah is the Lions pick and I can see that happening since they coached him for a week during the Senior Bowl practices. However, if I were GM, I couldn't use a top five pick on a guy who's only played football since 2010. Also, people tend to forget (or ignore) the fact that he had a lackluster week of practice and only shined in the game. Now, if you're going to shine, the game is where to do it, but that still would make me tentative to use this high of a pick on him.
The rest of the draft after the jump...
It's a tedious and time-consuming process to complete the "You're the GM of..." series and many events transpire between the first post to the last. With that in mind, I've decided to re-do the draft, based on what the teams did after I moved past them or what news of the prospects I've uncovered since selecting them to a certain team. For example, Arizona picking up Carson Palmer removes them from first round QB needs. That changes the entire complexion of the draft.
So, here's how I would draft for each team in the first round if I were their GM.
1. Kansas City Chiefs - OT Eric Fisher (prior pick - OT Luke Joekel)
The more I look at footage of Fisher, the more I like the way he plays. He seems stronger than Joekel and you can see a mean streak in his game where he tries to finish his block every time. Granted, Joekel faced better competition in college and should make a great tackle for some team. This is simply a matter of personal preference.
2. Jacksonville Jaguars - OT Luke Joekel (prior pick - OLB Jarvis Jones)
After much consideration, I have to go with the best available player for the Jags. The current left tackle is in the final year of his contract so Joekel can play on the right side this year and move over to the left next year. We have to protect our quarterback, whoever that may be, and this is the best way to do it.
3. Oakland Raiders - DT Star Loutelelei (prior pick - DT Star Loutelelei)
Nothing has changed for me with this pick. Nearly every mock and analyst is saying Sharrif Floyd will be the pick, and that may be, but if I were Oakland's GM, I'd take Star because, in my opinion, he'll be the better pro when it's all said and done.
4. Philadelphia Eagles - OT Lane Johnson (prior pick - OT Eric Fisher)
Johnson has flown up boards and although this is a bit of a reach, a franchise left tackle is a rare commodity and Johnson has more upside than any in the draft. The Eagles must fix their tackle position once and for all. Playing only one year at left tackle was not apparent during Senior Bowl week as he had a tremendous showing against the best senior defensive ends throughout practice.
5. Detroit Lions - CB Dee Millinter (prior pick - CB Dee Milliner)
In a lot of mocks, Esekiel Ansah is the Lions pick and I can see that happening since they coached him for a week during the Senior Bowl practices. However, if I were GM, I couldn't use a top five pick on a guy who's only played football since 2010. Also, people tend to forget (or ignore) the fact that he had a lackluster week of practice and only shined in the game. Now, if you're going to shine, the game is where to do it, but that still would make me tentative to use this high of a pick on him.
The rest of the draft after the jump...
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