UK Cards Fan
01-26-2008, 08:15 PM
This is my first mock of the year. I probably don't get to see as much college ball as most of you so if I stuff up anywhere go easy! I am interested in as much feedback as possible and have tried to explain each pick. I started out offering analysis on each pick, but given the time, this descended into mere random thoughts! Quite a lot of the time, especially in the Mid part, I felt I was just shooting into the air, but hopefullly it isn't that bad!
1. Miami Dolphins
The biggest thing you can be sure of here is that Miami will want to move down. However, I can’t see anyone who would want to move up this high when you consider that there is no agreed #1 pick in the draft. I don’t think Jake Long or Matt Ryan worth the #1 selection and I can’t see the Phins wanting to take Darren McFadden here. I’m also not sold that the Glenn Dorsey and Sedrick Ellis are good fits here. Therefore, by process of elimination as much as anything, the Miami Dolphins go for a guy who can play DE or OLB in the 3-4 and will upgrade their D.
Selection : Chris Long, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Virginia.
2. St Louis Rams
The Rams won’t want a QB here, and I’m also not sure that they go for a RB here with Steven Jackson and their second round pick from 2007, Brian Leonard, invested in the position. Would a DT appeal? Dorsey and Ellis are great talents but would the Rams want to disrupt the Carriker/Ryan pairing which looked impressive towards the end of last year? Especially when they have so many O-line questions, including the age of Orlando Pace.
Selection : Jake Long, Offensive Tackle, Michigan.
3. Atlanta Falcons
So, Darren McFadden or Matt Ryan here? Ryan is passable value here and McFadden would improve their running game which was poor last year, although Petrino did mess with the O-line which can’t have helped. However, I just wonder what impact Mike Smith may have here. Sure, Thomas Dimitroff has the last say, but could Mike Smith convince him the importance of a monster DT given the impact that Stroud and Henderson had for him in Jacksonville? Could his ties with Leftwich mean anything? I know most people won’t like it, but this could be the first curveball of the draft.
Selection : Glenn Dorsey, Defensive Tackle, Louisiana State University.
4. Oakland Raiders
McFadden is the obvious choice here, but would Al want to dish out $25 million guaranteed to a running back? Especially when you consider how Justin Fargas performed last year, the fact that Dominic Rhodes makes for at least a capable #2 and Lamont Jordan could also be kept on if he restructures his deal. Add in last year’s potential steal in Michael Bush and the situation becomes murky. Especially when the Raiders have lost Warren Sapp and they have seen a ready made replacement look so impressive in the Senior Bowl and the fact upgrading the DT is more of a need than RB.
Selection : Sedrick Ellis, Defensive Tackle, University of Southern California.
5. Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs are unlikely to have any interest in McFadden and will be reeling from the fact that their obvious three targets have all fallen off the board in front of their eyes. Matt Ryan will draw consideration, but the Chiefs have been very complimentary about Brodie Croyle. Could that be a smokescreen? Would they entertain offers to trade down for a team keen on McFadden, or might the Chiefs replicate the tactic that Arizona used with the 5th pick of the draft in 2007?
Selection : Ryan Clady, Offensive Tackle, Boise State.
6. New York Jets
McFadden is on the board and he would appear to be the pick ahead of a guy like Vernon Gholston. However, you can be sure that the Dallas Cowboys will be waiting to pounce. The Jets went for quality over quantity last year and given how that worked out, might be open for some additional help this year.
TRADE – Dallas Cowboys send Bobby Carpenter, Marcus Spears, the 22nd pick in the 2008 Draft and the 62nd pick in the 2008 draft.
I can see the Jets driving a hard bargain and being interested in both Carpenter and Spears, who both seem to be on the trade block and who would be good fits in the New York Jets’ defence.
The Cowboys pick would then be obvious.
Selection : Darren McFadden, Running Back, University of Arkansas.
7. New England Patriots
I think the Pats would like to trade down here, but I can’t see anyone being interested in moving up this high. Especially not at the required price. Gholston could draw some interest although if we assume Samuel is going to leave, then a CB could be of some interest. I don’t see Phillips as an option unless they choose to give up on Merriweather or move him to CB. Therefore, they go for the CB they have rated #1.
Selection : Leodis McKelvin, Cornerback, Troy.
8. Baltimore Ravens
Two things jump out at you about Baltimore. The QB situation and the age of this defense, especially at Corner. I can really see the Ravens therefore being interested in a CB, especially given the injuries to their CBs in 2007 and the disappointing play of the back-ups, who just did not look good enough last year. However, Matt Ryan has slipped down the board and needs to be considered. Could he be the end to the QB issues that have plagued the Ravens this decade. The fact that Jim Harbaugh will surely have time to develop the team could be the deciding factor.
Selection : Matt Ryan, Quarterback, Boston College.
9. Cincinnati Bengals
The value here lies with defense and that’s fine with Cinci who need to upgrade their pass D, especially with Cleveland and Pittsburgh’s improved pass play. The question therefore is CB (Jenkins), S (Phillips) or DE (Gholston/Harvey). Given the LB health issues, Keith Rivers can’t be ruled out as well. However, I think the secondary is young enough and with Justin Smith likely to leave, a pass rushing DE could be the best answer, even if the scheme fit is not perfect.
Selection : Vernon Gholston, Defensive End / Outside Linebacker, Ohio State University.
10. New Orleans Saints
Again, the value is with defense and primarily pass D. The whole secondary needs work but a young corner opposite Mike McKenzie could be the best answer. The Saints gave up too many long plays last year.
Selection : Mike Jenkins, Cornerback, South Florida.
11. Buffalo Bills
I am starting to feel that the value for the next few picks will be poor and teams will want to trade down. That said, who would want to trade up? I don’t see S here, Simpson/Whitner is a promising combo. A LB is a possibility, but they need to surround Edwards with weapons to assist his development. They showed in 2006 they are willing to reach, and even if Levy isn’t in charge, a lot of the same guys remain so might they do so again? I don’t like it but I don’t see much else.
Selection : Malcolm Kelly, Wide Receiver, Oklahoma.
12. Denver Broncos
The Broncos aren’t that far away, especially if their young D line can mature. The top value appears to lie with Phillips and Rivers. Given how bad their run defense was last year, and with Lynch likely to return, their good corners and the possibility of a good pass rush if Moss and Crowder develop, I think the edge goes to LB. That said, I could easily see a RB here to end the in/out saga and help Cutler if one separates himself from the field before the draft. Not now, though.
Selection : Keith Rivers, Linebacker, University of Southern California.
13. Carolina Panthers
This is a tough pick to project until we know the results of FA. An OT could be a must here in April but for now it’s just a want. A DE could be used as well in Harvey or Calais Campbell. However, they need to upgrade at FS and one has fallen through the cracks and offers good value, here.
Selection : Kenny Phillips, Safety, Miami.
14. Chicago Bears
The Bears have a lot more needs than you think at first, especially on offense where nearly every position could do with an upgrade. That said, I don’t see any QB/RB/WR value here, unless they fall for someone. They are pretty set at DE as well so D value is also off here. Might they slightly reach for some needed youth in the O-line?
Selection : Jeff Otah, Offensive Tackle, Pittsburgh
15. Detroit Lions
The Lions are another team who have several needs. A RB could be considered, but that will likely depend on Kevin Jones’ rehab plus there’s likely later value. O-line help is needed, but value is off. Same with the secondary and LB really. Pass rush help could be utilised though. They were interested in Gaines Adams last year and a pass rusher who could grow into a fulltime DE could be the best fit given the way the board has gone.
Selection : Derrick Harvey, Defensive End, Florida.
16. Arizona Cardinals
The one thing the Cards need is a #1 CB. However, I don’t see one around here with McKelvin and Jenkins gone. I’m not sold on any real value here. However, with Edge lacking explosion and on the decline, a RB makes the most sense.
Selection : Jonathan Stewart, Running Back, Oregon.
17. Minnesota Vikings
I really don’t know what the Vikings will do. I can’t see Childress taking a WR, and I think Tarvaris’ play down the stretch stopped a first round QB. Especially at this point. TE value is way off. RT help is an option, as is DE, although I don’t see any great fits. I guess S could be sold, especially one who is versatile and could help at corner in a pinch if needed.
Selection : Reggie Smith, DB, Oklahoma.
18. Houston Texans
Another selection that could go several ways. RB is a need but might Kubiak wait? The WRs stepped up last year and I’m loathe to give an OT until we know more about Charles Spencer’s recovery. Might Campbell/Dan Connor draw interest? Possibly. However, the Texans need secondary help, especially with Dunta Robinson severely injured and his 2008 status in doubt. Perhaps a guy who can play CB/S and can start regardless of Robinson’s status? A CB/S who had a fantastic Senior bowl week, is this too high?
Selection : Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Defensive Back, Tennessee State.
19. Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles have comparatively few needs. They are a young team who normally do well in the draft. However, needs exist – secondary help? The value looks off. A DE in Calais Campbell might appeal. TE value is also way off. However, Donovan McNabb wants playmakers, and I’m sure that Kevin Kolb would want one as well, maybe one who could help in the return game?
Selection : Desean Jackson, Wide Receiver, California.
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
One of the hardest to project and not due to lack of needs. QB – would Gruden be interested in one at this point? Probably too early for RB and WR. Secondary youth is an issue but I’m not sold on one so early. O-line help is needed at LT long term unless the coaches are sold on Donald Penn. I’m not sold, and their line is already very young, but I see little better.
Selection : Sam Baker, Offensive Tackle, University of Southern California.
21. Washington Redskins
The Skins look like they are blowing it up so they could go several ways here. O-line, Secondary, D-line and WR look to be the most in need. From a pure value and need perspective however, DE looks the most obvious.
Selection : Calais Campbell, Defensive End, Miami.
22. New York Jets – Acquired from Dallas through Cleveland.
The Jets got a lot of Defensive help in the trade although they could still do with some more. Another target for Kellen Clemens could also be useful. That said, some time in the pocket and a running game would be useful, too. I saw Anthony Clement in Arizona and he can be upgraded. Big time. He’s also aging. I’m not certain on the pick however.
Selection : Gosder Cherilus, Offensive Tackle, Boston College.
23. Pittsburgh Steelers
I feel the Steelers possibly overachieved last year. They have a lot of holes which could do with being filled. The D-line lacks youth and the secondary, at best, is average. Could a RB be a left field selection? Big Ben wants a tall WR although maybe he could do with some time to find his short guys? There’s a run on O-line guys even if the value is lacking.
Selection : Chris Williams, Offensive Tackle, Vanderbilt.
24. Tennessee Titans
The Titans are in decent shape defensively, although secondary help would be welcomed. They have a youngish, under-rated O-line. They also appear to be fine at RB. However, if Vince Young is to become a good Quarterback he needs targets to aid his progression. Perhaps a former team-mate?
Selection : Limas Sweed, Wide Receiver, Texas.
25. Seattle Seahawks
If this is Mike Holmgreen’s last shot, he is likely to push for immediate help, which probably suggests offense. Interior O-line help could be used but value? Same with TE. RB is probably the best bet, but don’t rule out WR with Branch rehabbing, Hackett a FA and Engram aging.
Selection : Rashard Mendenhall, Running Back, Illinois.
26. Jacksonville Jaguars
I can’t see the Jags going offense. WR would be useful, but given their track record, I think they stay clear. O-line value is off. Way off. Could a QB come from left field – Garrard is 30, but a young 30 so unlikely. Therefore, they look D. They are set at LB so secondary or D-line? Both are needs. Probably more value in going D-line first, but who? Their tactic of picking up mid round specialist pass rushers hasn’t worked. Perhaps a DE they can ease into the rotation behind Spicer and Hayward who could go up value boards after the Combine and could turn into an excellent pass rusher? It may be a reach but it could pay off big.
Selection : Quentin Groves, Defensive End, Auburn.
27. San Diego Chargers
The Chargers have few picks and few obvious needs. An RT could be an option but value? D-line depth? A LB to develop? Safety help? Nothing stands out and I feel think would be willing to deal. QBs have slipped. Might that interest someone? Someone with an additional second round pick to deal with?
TRADE – Atlanta Falcons send the 49th pick in the 2008 Draft and the 69th pick in the 2008 draft.
QB value is fine here and a low first round pick will have less pressure on his shoulders and time to grow.
Selection : [Brian Brohm, Quarterback, Louisville.
28. Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys don’t have many holes that require a first round pick. Perhaps WR although Austin and Hurd are developing nicely. However, last year it was obvious that when the Cowboys went to nickel, all the opponents had to do was find Roy Williams or Jacques Reeves. I can’t see Dallas replacing Williams, but maybe a CB who can play nickel and start should a starter go down. I am not sure on the fit but the value’s acceptable.
Selection : Aqib Talib, Cornerback, Kansas.
29. San Francisco 49ers
Another team with a lot of holes. The O-line needs help but value? D-line needs help. Could Balmer be an option? He is good value. Has Mike Singletary found a new Patrick Willis in Mobile? WR need looks palpable, but Martz has found success with undrafted guys and Hill and Lelie could prosper in his scheme. However, they could do with a top WR to draw some coverage and open things up. Not fully sold on the value / fit, however.
Selection : Mario Manningham, Wide Receiver, Michigan.
30. Green Bay Packers
The Packers also suffered from the Cowboys’ curse; see Bigby and their Nickel CB. Again, O-line could be considered but quickly rejected. LB in Dan Connor? Possibly but CB need trumps that. Maybe a guy who could play CB/S. Value is probably way off here but does need trump that? If so, go for a guy with high upside who could mask that, although are they wary of Ahmad Carroll II?
Selection : Charles Godfrey, Defensive Back, Iowa.
(Listed Alphabetically)
31/32. New England - Forfeited
31/32. New York Giants
Another team who could benefit from O-line help, but again value issues? As there is with CB/S help and the need isn’t as obvious. Therefore, LB? Especially if Kiwanuka moves back to the D-line.
Selection : Dan Connor, Linebacker, Penn State.
1. Miami Dolphins
The biggest thing you can be sure of here is that Miami will want to move down. However, I can’t see anyone who would want to move up this high when you consider that there is no agreed #1 pick in the draft. I don’t think Jake Long or Matt Ryan worth the #1 selection and I can’t see the Phins wanting to take Darren McFadden here. I’m also not sold that the Glenn Dorsey and Sedrick Ellis are good fits here. Therefore, by process of elimination as much as anything, the Miami Dolphins go for a guy who can play DE or OLB in the 3-4 and will upgrade their D.
Selection : Chris Long, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Virginia.
2. St Louis Rams
The Rams won’t want a QB here, and I’m also not sure that they go for a RB here with Steven Jackson and their second round pick from 2007, Brian Leonard, invested in the position. Would a DT appeal? Dorsey and Ellis are great talents but would the Rams want to disrupt the Carriker/Ryan pairing which looked impressive towards the end of last year? Especially when they have so many O-line questions, including the age of Orlando Pace.
Selection : Jake Long, Offensive Tackle, Michigan.
3. Atlanta Falcons
So, Darren McFadden or Matt Ryan here? Ryan is passable value here and McFadden would improve their running game which was poor last year, although Petrino did mess with the O-line which can’t have helped. However, I just wonder what impact Mike Smith may have here. Sure, Thomas Dimitroff has the last say, but could Mike Smith convince him the importance of a monster DT given the impact that Stroud and Henderson had for him in Jacksonville? Could his ties with Leftwich mean anything? I know most people won’t like it, but this could be the first curveball of the draft.
Selection : Glenn Dorsey, Defensive Tackle, Louisiana State University.
4. Oakland Raiders
McFadden is the obvious choice here, but would Al want to dish out $25 million guaranteed to a running back? Especially when you consider how Justin Fargas performed last year, the fact that Dominic Rhodes makes for at least a capable #2 and Lamont Jordan could also be kept on if he restructures his deal. Add in last year’s potential steal in Michael Bush and the situation becomes murky. Especially when the Raiders have lost Warren Sapp and they have seen a ready made replacement look so impressive in the Senior Bowl and the fact upgrading the DT is more of a need than RB.
Selection : Sedrick Ellis, Defensive Tackle, University of Southern California.
5. Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs are unlikely to have any interest in McFadden and will be reeling from the fact that their obvious three targets have all fallen off the board in front of their eyes. Matt Ryan will draw consideration, but the Chiefs have been very complimentary about Brodie Croyle. Could that be a smokescreen? Would they entertain offers to trade down for a team keen on McFadden, or might the Chiefs replicate the tactic that Arizona used with the 5th pick of the draft in 2007?
Selection : Ryan Clady, Offensive Tackle, Boise State.
6. New York Jets
McFadden is on the board and he would appear to be the pick ahead of a guy like Vernon Gholston. However, you can be sure that the Dallas Cowboys will be waiting to pounce. The Jets went for quality over quantity last year and given how that worked out, might be open for some additional help this year.
TRADE – Dallas Cowboys send Bobby Carpenter, Marcus Spears, the 22nd pick in the 2008 Draft and the 62nd pick in the 2008 draft.
I can see the Jets driving a hard bargain and being interested in both Carpenter and Spears, who both seem to be on the trade block and who would be good fits in the New York Jets’ defence.
The Cowboys pick would then be obvious.
Selection : Darren McFadden, Running Back, University of Arkansas.
7. New England Patriots
I think the Pats would like to trade down here, but I can’t see anyone being interested in moving up this high. Especially not at the required price. Gholston could draw some interest although if we assume Samuel is going to leave, then a CB could be of some interest. I don’t see Phillips as an option unless they choose to give up on Merriweather or move him to CB. Therefore, they go for the CB they have rated #1.
Selection : Leodis McKelvin, Cornerback, Troy.
8. Baltimore Ravens
Two things jump out at you about Baltimore. The QB situation and the age of this defense, especially at Corner. I can really see the Ravens therefore being interested in a CB, especially given the injuries to their CBs in 2007 and the disappointing play of the back-ups, who just did not look good enough last year. However, Matt Ryan has slipped down the board and needs to be considered. Could he be the end to the QB issues that have plagued the Ravens this decade. The fact that Jim Harbaugh will surely have time to develop the team could be the deciding factor.
Selection : Matt Ryan, Quarterback, Boston College.
9. Cincinnati Bengals
The value here lies with defense and that’s fine with Cinci who need to upgrade their pass D, especially with Cleveland and Pittsburgh’s improved pass play. The question therefore is CB (Jenkins), S (Phillips) or DE (Gholston/Harvey). Given the LB health issues, Keith Rivers can’t be ruled out as well. However, I think the secondary is young enough and with Justin Smith likely to leave, a pass rushing DE could be the best answer, even if the scheme fit is not perfect.
Selection : Vernon Gholston, Defensive End / Outside Linebacker, Ohio State University.
10. New Orleans Saints
Again, the value is with defense and primarily pass D. The whole secondary needs work but a young corner opposite Mike McKenzie could be the best answer. The Saints gave up too many long plays last year.
Selection : Mike Jenkins, Cornerback, South Florida.
11. Buffalo Bills
I am starting to feel that the value for the next few picks will be poor and teams will want to trade down. That said, who would want to trade up? I don’t see S here, Simpson/Whitner is a promising combo. A LB is a possibility, but they need to surround Edwards with weapons to assist his development. They showed in 2006 they are willing to reach, and even if Levy isn’t in charge, a lot of the same guys remain so might they do so again? I don’t like it but I don’t see much else.
Selection : Malcolm Kelly, Wide Receiver, Oklahoma.
12. Denver Broncos
The Broncos aren’t that far away, especially if their young D line can mature. The top value appears to lie with Phillips and Rivers. Given how bad their run defense was last year, and with Lynch likely to return, their good corners and the possibility of a good pass rush if Moss and Crowder develop, I think the edge goes to LB. That said, I could easily see a RB here to end the in/out saga and help Cutler if one separates himself from the field before the draft. Not now, though.
Selection : Keith Rivers, Linebacker, University of Southern California.
13. Carolina Panthers
This is a tough pick to project until we know the results of FA. An OT could be a must here in April but for now it’s just a want. A DE could be used as well in Harvey or Calais Campbell. However, they need to upgrade at FS and one has fallen through the cracks and offers good value, here.
Selection : Kenny Phillips, Safety, Miami.
14. Chicago Bears
The Bears have a lot more needs than you think at first, especially on offense where nearly every position could do with an upgrade. That said, I don’t see any QB/RB/WR value here, unless they fall for someone. They are pretty set at DE as well so D value is also off here. Might they slightly reach for some needed youth in the O-line?
Selection : Jeff Otah, Offensive Tackle, Pittsburgh
15. Detroit Lions
The Lions are another team who have several needs. A RB could be considered, but that will likely depend on Kevin Jones’ rehab plus there’s likely later value. O-line help is needed, but value is off. Same with the secondary and LB really. Pass rush help could be utilised though. They were interested in Gaines Adams last year and a pass rusher who could grow into a fulltime DE could be the best fit given the way the board has gone.
Selection : Derrick Harvey, Defensive End, Florida.
16. Arizona Cardinals
The one thing the Cards need is a #1 CB. However, I don’t see one around here with McKelvin and Jenkins gone. I’m not sold on any real value here. However, with Edge lacking explosion and on the decline, a RB makes the most sense.
Selection : Jonathan Stewart, Running Back, Oregon.
17. Minnesota Vikings
I really don’t know what the Vikings will do. I can’t see Childress taking a WR, and I think Tarvaris’ play down the stretch stopped a first round QB. Especially at this point. TE value is way off. RT help is an option, as is DE, although I don’t see any great fits. I guess S could be sold, especially one who is versatile and could help at corner in a pinch if needed.
Selection : Reggie Smith, DB, Oklahoma.
18. Houston Texans
Another selection that could go several ways. RB is a need but might Kubiak wait? The WRs stepped up last year and I’m loathe to give an OT until we know more about Charles Spencer’s recovery. Might Campbell/Dan Connor draw interest? Possibly. However, the Texans need secondary help, especially with Dunta Robinson severely injured and his 2008 status in doubt. Perhaps a guy who can play CB/S and can start regardless of Robinson’s status? A CB/S who had a fantastic Senior bowl week, is this too high?
Selection : Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Defensive Back, Tennessee State.
19. Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles have comparatively few needs. They are a young team who normally do well in the draft. However, needs exist – secondary help? The value looks off. A DE in Calais Campbell might appeal. TE value is also way off. However, Donovan McNabb wants playmakers, and I’m sure that Kevin Kolb would want one as well, maybe one who could help in the return game?
Selection : Desean Jackson, Wide Receiver, California.
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
One of the hardest to project and not due to lack of needs. QB – would Gruden be interested in one at this point? Probably too early for RB and WR. Secondary youth is an issue but I’m not sold on one so early. O-line help is needed at LT long term unless the coaches are sold on Donald Penn. I’m not sold, and their line is already very young, but I see little better.
Selection : Sam Baker, Offensive Tackle, University of Southern California.
21. Washington Redskins
The Skins look like they are blowing it up so they could go several ways here. O-line, Secondary, D-line and WR look to be the most in need. From a pure value and need perspective however, DE looks the most obvious.
Selection : Calais Campbell, Defensive End, Miami.
22. New York Jets – Acquired from Dallas through Cleveland.
The Jets got a lot of Defensive help in the trade although they could still do with some more. Another target for Kellen Clemens could also be useful. That said, some time in the pocket and a running game would be useful, too. I saw Anthony Clement in Arizona and he can be upgraded. Big time. He’s also aging. I’m not certain on the pick however.
Selection : Gosder Cherilus, Offensive Tackle, Boston College.
23. Pittsburgh Steelers
I feel the Steelers possibly overachieved last year. They have a lot of holes which could do with being filled. The D-line lacks youth and the secondary, at best, is average. Could a RB be a left field selection? Big Ben wants a tall WR although maybe he could do with some time to find his short guys? There’s a run on O-line guys even if the value is lacking.
Selection : Chris Williams, Offensive Tackle, Vanderbilt.
24. Tennessee Titans
The Titans are in decent shape defensively, although secondary help would be welcomed. They have a youngish, under-rated O-line. They also appear to be fine at RB. However, if Vince Young is to become a good Quarterback he needs targets to aid his progression. Perhaps a former team-mate?
Selection : Limas Sweed, Wide Receiver, Texas.
25. Seattle Seahawks
If this is Mike Holmgreen’s last shot, he is likely to push for immediate help, which probably suggests offense. Interior O-line help could be used but value? Same with TE. RB is probably the best bet, but don’t rule out WR with Branch rehabbing, Hackett a FA and Engram aging.
Selection : Rashard Mendenhall, Running Back, Illinois.
26. Jacksonville Jaguars
I can’t see the Jags going offense. WR would be useful, but given their track record, I think they stay clear. O-line value is off. Way off. Could a QB come from left field – Garrard is 30, but a young 30 so unlikely. Therefore, they look D. They are set at LB so secondary or D-line? Both are needs. Probably more value in going D-line first, but who? Their tactic of picking up mid round specialist pass rushers hasn’t worked. Perhaps a DE they can ease into the rotation behind Spicer and Hayward who could go up value boards after the Combine and could turn into an excellent pass rusher? It may be a reach but it could pay off big.
Selection : Quentin Groves, Defensive End, Auburn.
27. San Diego Chargers
The Chargers have few picks and few obvious needs. An RT could be an option but value? D-line depth? A LB to develop? Safety help? Nothing stands out and I feel think would be willing to deal. QBs have slipped. Might that interest someone? Someone with an additional second round pick to deal with?
TRADE – Atlanta Falcons send the 49th pick in the 2008 Draft and the 69th pick in the 2008 draft.
QB value is fine here and a low first round pick will have less pressure on his shoulders and time to grow.
Selection : [Brian Brohm, Quarterback, Louisville.
28. Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys don’t have many holes that require a first round pick. Perhaps WR although Austin and Hurd are developing nicely. However, last year it was obvious that when the Cowboys went to nickel, all the opponents had to do was find Roy Williams or Jacques Reeves. I can’t see Dallas replacing Williams, but maybe a CB who can play nickel and start should a starter go down. I am not sure on the fit but the value’s acceptable.
Selection : Aqib Talib, Cornerback, Kansas.
29. San Francisco 49ers
Another team with a lot of holes. The O-line needs help but value? D-line needs help. Could Balmer be an option? He is good value. Has Mike Singletary found a new Patrick Willis in Mobile? WR need looks palpable, but Martz has found success with undrafted guys and Hill and Lelie could prosper in his scheme. However, they could do with a top WR to draw some coverage and open things up. Not fully sold on the value / fit, however.
Selection : Mario Manningham, Wide Receiver, Michigan.
30. Green Bay Packers
The Packers also suffered from the Cowboys’ curse; see Bigby and their Nickel CB. Again, O-line could be considered but quickly rejected. LB in Dan Connor? Possibly but CB need trumps that. Maybe a guy who could play CB/S. Value is probably way off here but does need trump that? If so, go for a guy with high upside who could mask that, although are they wary of Ahmad Carroll II?
Selection : Charles Godfrey, Defensive Back, Iowa.
(Listed Alphabetically)
31/32. New England - Forfeited
31/32. New York Giants
Another team who could benefit from O-line help, but again value issues? As there is with CB/S help and the need isn’t as obvious. Therefore, LB? Especially if Kiwanuka moves back to the D-line.
Selection : Dan Connor, Linebacker, Penn State.