toonsterwu
02-13-2008, 11:09 PM
JBond has odds, toonsterwu has evens
1. Miami Dolphins - Chris Long DE/Virginia
With their cuts, I thought about Jake Long slightly, but until it is a viable option, I can't go away from Chris Long. He's legit, has the pedigree, is worthy of a #1 Overall pick, fits the system, has the UVA ties. It all makes sense.
2. St. Louis Rams - Vernon Gholston DE/the Ohio State
Does Vernon grade this high? No, I don't think so. I know there's a lot of talk about Carriker moving to end, thus allowing them to make an Ellis or Dorsey pick, but I'm taking it with a grain of salt. As for OL, there's growing talk that they are leaning that way, but I still have my doubts. They can add guys later to fill their interior needs and depth purposes, particularly in this draft. I still believe they need a pure edge guy, and I'm also a believe in taking the guy that makes the most sense for you, as long as the value is close. Gholston should be close. Think of the Saints a couple years back and how they were planning on taking Hawk had Bush not fallen.
3. Oakland Raiders - Glenn Dorsey DT/LSU
Unless Al Davis REALLY wants McFadden, Oakland really needs to shore up one of their lines. That being said, Oakland usually does something out of the ordinary, but until it starts to leak out, I don't think we really know. Between Oakland, Atlanta and Kansas City, all three could be looking at a number of the same prospects. This coin toss could determine a lot.
4. Atlanta Falcons - Matt Ryan QB/Boston College
By now, the majority of Falcons fans have probably gotten used to this pick. Instead of looking at what Matt Ryan can't do, let's look at what he can. No big mechanical issues. Good vision. Good feel in the pocket. Enough mobility. Solid intangibles. If you believe that his arm strength can develop a bit more, as many do, then it's understandable why some consider him a franchise QB. Is he on par with, Jamarcus Russell last year? Of course not. But a case can be made for him to be ahead of Brady Quinn. Sedrick Ellis, Darren McFadden, Jake Long all could get long consideration here.
5. Kansas City Chiefs - Jake Long OT/Michigan
I considered Ellis, definitely, I just am not sure if Kansas City can go with him to continue to bolster a good defense when their offense is struggling so much. Really, if they fix their O-line and LJ can run/stay healthy, could they be in playoff contention again? We saw Cleveland do it with a big time rookie OT (granted, it was a LT,) and some help in FA. Though Jake Long doesn't fix all the problems, he does sure up a right side for LJ to run behind. I think this is a good pick.
6. New York Jets - Phillip Merling DE/Clemson
Maybe a bit out of left field. A lot will come down to what he weighs in at for the combine. He probably has the frame to be in the 290's, but if he weighs in the low 270's, that'll shy 3-4 teams off. If he weighs closer to 280, or more, that'll get some attention. He's big strong, long. Impact 3-4 DE are hard to find, and he could be just that. We'll have to wait and see the athletic tools, but they are rmored to be excellent. Maybe the Jets pull the trigger on McFadden. I'm just not sure Mangini would do that, but who knows. Clady makes little sense here. Harvey was a passing thought, but Merling has more value. CB? Don't buy a 6th overall CB after dealing up for Revis. ILB? Don't buy it here with Harris in place.
7. New England Patriots (f/ SF) - Darren McFadden RB/Arkansas
I don't like it. They need defensive help, LB and secondary, but McFadden is too good to pass up. Even with Maroney playing well in the playoffs, not a whole lot of money is tied up in him anymore. If Brady falters, there is someone new to rely on. It would be interesting.
8. Baltimore Ravens - Ryan Clady OT/Boise State
A lot of possibilities were tempting. That said, Ryan Clady is arguably BPA. Do they go into the year trusting Jared Gaither, Adam Terry, and Marshal Yanda? I know there's a lot of positive publicity on Gaither this offseason. If he pans out, they can move him to RT, as Yanda is probably better suited as a depth tackle (or interior player). CB and QB are bigger needs, but the value on the latter is missing, and on the former, well, it might be a tad high.
9. Cincinnati Bengals - Sedrick Ellis DT/USC
Ellis could be a Top 5 pick possibly, and if the Bengals can land a BIG time D-lineman right here at #9, I have little doubt they would take it. It is one position they need more than anything, and Ellis falls into their laps.
10. New Orleans Saints - Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie DB/Tennessee State
I think he can rise this high. Maybe he won't and I end up going with another CB. If he does, he has the good size and man skills that may tempt. Maybe we are all overthinking this need at CB thing. Some teams just don't go that route. They could look RB/WR/TE/OL. I tend to think CB/LB/DT should be addressed fairly early, though, so we'll wait and see how it all plays out.
11. Buffalo Bills - Keith Rivers LB/USC
I think Rivers is a legit Top Ten pick. LB is a need for the Bills, and Rivers is versatile enough to fit in wherever they need him. I think it is a great fit in Buffalo.
12. Denver Broncos - Chris Williams OT/Vanderbilt
Interesting decision at this point. Is Kenny Phillips worth a mid-first? Seems questionable. LB here? Seems wasteful. DT? Who? They do need OT help, and Williams could be a good one for the scheme, and in general.
13. Carolina Panthers - Kenny Phillips DB/Miami (Fl)
With the re-signing of Wharton, if they keep him outside, they may look elsewhere. Safety is a major concern. With Phillips still on the board, it is hard to pass on a position of need with the talent he has
14. Chicago Bears - Joe Flacco QB/Delaware
Surprise? Perhaps. I've run it through several scenarios, and each time the Bears pass on QB in the first, they miss out on a top 4 QB in the 2nd. Is it worth it to reach on a Woodson there? Seems a poor idea, and at this point in time, I think the Bears draft a QB in the first. Do I think Flacco can work this high? Yes, but more than likely the Bears would try to deal down to nab a QB.
15. Detroit Lions - Derrick Harvey DE/Florida
A tough pick for me. Could look at McKelvin or Jenkins. Could look at Otah on the O-line. Could even take a look at RB or some other obscure position (you never know what Detroit will do). I like Harvey too much, and he could make an impact.
16. Arizona Cardinals - Rashard Mendenhall RB/Illinois
They could look a CB here to move Rolle to FS. They could look OL. They could look DL. An ILB is a thought, or they could go an edge guy. In the end, I think Mendenhall's value is way too good here. My original concern about his fit for Whisenhunt was size/power related, but if he's in the 220's, he's got good power from this legs, potentially better than Stewart.
17. Minnesota Vikings - Calais Campbell DE/Miami (Fl)
A little bit of a surprise. Lots of value elsewhere on the board (O-line, CB, etc). Calais seems like the type of DE that could fit right in Minnesota. With Udeze's illness, depth at DE gets less and less. It's hard, but Minnesota has to go with the edge guy here.
18. Houston Texans - Mike Jenkins DB/South Florida
I was tempted to go Felix Jones here. I really was, but in the end the potential to find RB fits later made me wait. DL can wait, although they could use another pass rusher. A LB is a long thought, but here? OL? Not their MO, but possible. In the end, I go DB, which is a big need. Jenkins can start next to Fred until Dunta gets back. If Dunta doesn't get back until next year, then Mike could move to S at that point, or stay as the nickel corner.
19. Philadelphia Eagles - Leodis McKelvin CB/Troy
Value is so great here. The Eagles need more depth in the secondary to compete with some of these major passing games. McKelvin could fit in nicely, eventually be a big time starter. I think it is a great value AND need pick.
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Mario Manningham WR/Michigan
Let me be clear. I don't like Manningham. I don't see the fascination. That said, WR seems the most likely spot to add. OL isn't a huge need, and DL value seems iffy at this point. LB/CB can wait barring elite talent, and RB depth exists. Manningham gives them a young deep receiver that they need.
21. Washington Redskins - Malcolm Kelly WR/Oklahoma
Washington may get Ocho Cinco? No, won't happen. If not, Kelly fits the type of guy they want and he could step up and be a #1 WR almost immediately (or at least in two-three years).
22. Dallas Cowboys (f/ CLE) - Aqib Talib CB/Kansas
Too tempting to pass up. Excellent ball skills, instincts, good length. Quickness is iffy, but he's not as horrible at man as some suggest as long as he maintains his technique. They could look elsewhere (OL/WR/RB all come to mind), but the value is too good to pass.
23. Pittsburgh Steelers - Jeff Otah OT/Pittsburgh
A steal right here for my team, the Steelers. Big time O-lineman out of Pitt going to the Steelers could be HUGE. If Otah does fall to 23 (doubtful,) or even close, maybe Pittsburgh will go up and get him. This could really help put the step back in the Steeler's offense
24. Tennessee Titans - Limas Sweed WR/Texas
The end value isn't there, and I don't think LB/G is needed here. TE is a reach, and thus, WR. Sweed's an interesting case. I'm not a huge fan ... but scouts seem to be. Typically, a guy gets hurt, and they slide down a bit, before having to work back up. The general consensus never had Sweed sliding down much, if at all. He is a big target who's strength may allow him to succeed at the pro level. That said, there must be some worries of Mike Williams and Dwayne Jarrett occurrences.
25. Seattle Seahawks - Jonathan Stewart RB/Oregon
Easy boring pick by Seattle here. But, Stewart is definitely worth a lot more than pick 25, so if Seattle wants to go RB and Stewart is here, it is a no brainer.
26. Jacksonville Jaguars - Devin Thomas WR/Michigan State
End value isn't there (I'm not huge on Lawrence Jackson). OL? Eh, it can wait. CB? Here? S? Sensabaugh is coming back. Thus, WR. Devin Thomas seems like the type of receiver they take. A big target with some intriguing athletic potential, except he has more quickness than some of their recent WR draft picks. If he pans out, he gives them an excellent downfield target.
27. San Diego Chargers - Reggie Smith DB/Oklahoma
He is versatile, can play safety or corner and can contribute wherever necessary for this defense. I thought slightly about Gosder, but nothing impresses. A quick thought about DeSean Jackson, but he doesn't seem to fit in San Diego. I'll take my chances with Reggie.
28. Dallas Cowboys - Felix Jones RB/Arkansas
Do I really want to make this pick? Nah. But I've got a hard time assessing where else. WR can wait as Jones has better value than the WR's. OL? Here? eh ... Jones seems to have better value as well.
29. San Francisco 49ers (f/ IND) - Kentwan Balmer DL/North Carolina
Balmer falls extremely far and SF can add to their 3-4 due to that. There is no reason Balmer should be around at 29, but we've seen this mock go a weird, yet very interesting way. Don't be surprised if Balmer does fall this far.
30. Green Bay Packers - Patrick Lee CB/Auburn
Was tempted to go LB ... but decided that since CB was a more pressing need, I'd nab Lee here. Big, athletic target that can be physical. Sounds like their starters.
31. New England Patriots - Forfeited
32. New York Giants - Carl Nicks OL/Nebraska
Is this a likely popular pick? Probably not. But Nicks is too tempting to pass, considering I've projected him, as of now, to potentially have closer to mid-first value. LB/CB depth is good in this draft. S value is arguably better in the midrounds. He's a physical player with LT potential. If he doesn't pan out as their long run LT, he could be their RT or a guard. Just too tempting.
33. Miami Dolphins - Gosder Cherilus OL/Boston College
After their cuts, Miami does need a RT pretty badly. Gosder is improving I think, so at 33, he isn't bad value
34. St. Louis Rams - Early Doucet WR/LSU
Do they really need to go OG here? Perhaps Albert makes more sense. I'm just wondering if they can afford to wait. They are rumored to want to get bigger at WR, along with younger. Doucet and Hardy was the decision, and I went Doucet for his readiness to help plus better quickness that might mesh with Al Saunders better than Hardy.
35. Atlanta Falcons - Sam Baker OT/USC
If Baker bulks up, I DO believe he can be a LT in the NFL. I thought about Albert, but I'm not as sold on Albert as Baker at this point. They do need a LT, and they likely have to go there now rather than later. It will be a pick many will hate, but oh well.
36. Kansas City Chiefs - Brandon Flowers CB/Virginia Tech
Will Flowers off-field stuff affect his status? Only time will tell. He's a guy that seems to be a good fit for Gunther and Herman, and they could use some talent at CB after adding OL talent. Of course, they could go more OL talent, as well as perhaps look WR. A lot of options.
37. New York Jets - DeSean Jackson WR/Cal
I went BPA here for the Jets. Is Jackson the best fit? No, but when a guy with this type of talent falls to the 2nd round, you HAVE to pick him up.
38. Oakland Raiders - Anthony Collins OT/Kansas
How much sway does Lane Kiffin have? Enough to get Baker here? Maybe I'm starting to overreact on the Kiffin status. Very possible. But that's what lead me down this road to Collins. Collins could fit very well for the offensive system. DE was a thought, but not loving Jackson here. WR and RB seem like they can wait.
39. Baltimore Ravens - Brian Brohm QB/Louisville
Maybe they buy Troy Smith, but Brohm in the 2nd is decent value and he is worth taking a shot on.
40. San Francisco 49ers - Dan Connor ILB/Penn State
I initially went elsewhere, but decided Connor was too good to pass. I think Brandon Moore would be a solid guy to give a shot, but they don't seem too enthused. Connor/Willis would be a nasty young tandem. The DL value seems iffy here and they did add Balmer. Edge options? Are they worth it here? Who's a WR value that fits?
41. New Orleans Saints - Curtis Lofton LB/Tennessee
LB has been a need for SO long. Time to go get it for NO
42. Buffalo Bills - Pat Sims DL/Auburn
I think he could work very well in a 4-3 tampa 2 and he gives them more bulk inside. I think they could use another talent at DT to try and boost the defensive ability, and I think Sims has good value there. I think there's enough WR/TE value to wait.
43. Denver Broncos - Jerod Mayo LB/Tennessee
Maybe a little odd, but they do want to move DJ back inside. No Safety value, and DT looked good to me, but Mayo got the slight nod
44. Carolina Panthers - Lavelle Hawkins WR/Cal
Readiness. That was the key. I think value is decent, but Hawkins seems like a readiness guy. They've gone down the big target path. Hawkins doesn't give them the elite quick guy, but he is quick, has solid speed, seems to run routes well and in general be a smart WR, and seems to have good hands. They could use a WR weapon. I don't think DE is worth it here (might as well give Charles Johnson a shot at this point). They've resigned their DT's, and value is iffy. LB? It can wait. They added a S earlier, and resigned their two OT's (along with OT value being iffy). QB of the future is not a more immediate need.
45. Chicago Bears - Branden Albert OL/Virginia
Good value, and fits a need. Seemed right to me.
46. Detroit Lions - Trevor Laws DL/Notre Dame
I believe Laws is a solid value and more importantly, a solid fit. He might have to play on the nose a bit with Redding there, but his experience 2-gapping should help, and his technical ability will allow it to work. Long run, he likely moves to become their 3-tech. I think they need to focus on the DL to really take off. RB value/fit was iffy, and I believe they can wait on CB/LB. TE was a thought, but Laws was more tempting.
47. Cincinnati Bengals - Phillip Wheeler LB/Georgia Tech
I like the fit in Cincinnati, as he can move to the weakside as they restructure their LBs. I thought about safety, but no one jumps out to me as mid-2nd round value.
48. Minnesota Vikings - Earl Bennett WR/Vanderbilt
He just screams Brad Childress to me for some reason. Seems like a smart fluid receiver. Reminds me of Reggie Brown a bit. Going the safety route was a long, long thought, but I think they need to add another WR in the first 2 rounds. RT can wait, as can TE, IMO.
49. Atlanta Falcons (from Houston Texans) - Dre Moore DT/Maryland
I really think Atlanta goes after a DT first day with Mike Smith as the head coach. I like Moore more than most (no pun intended)
50. Philadelphia Eagles - DaJuan Morgan DB/North Carolina State
Too tempting to pass. They need a young safety to groom, and Morgan has loads of talent. He's physical against the run and has the range to develop in the passing game. Seems like a great fit. DE value ... eh. There's enough guys that can be added later. There isn't really a LT talent to take here. WR was a thought, but Morgan seems so tantalizing, IMO, due to their need there.
51. Arizona Cardinals - Charles Godfrey CB/Iowa
I'm a big Godfrey guy. That's all
52. Washington Redskins - Lawrence Jackson DE/USC
After adding a WR, where do they look now? OL and CB are thoughts. I don't see the OL value as a necessity unless someone gets moved. Thus, CB or DE were the areas of focus, and I think Lawrence Jackson has better value than the CB options available. He's a 2-way end that seems capable of fitting Blache very well.
53. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Antoine Cason CB/Arizona
I like Cason in the Cover-2, like most people. Tampa is all about it, and they could use the depth.
54. Pittsburgh Steelers - James Hardy WR/Indiana
I think Hardy is just too tantalizing to not take. Sure, they could look elsewhere. But there's CB value later. DL value for them seems iffy here in terms of finding a value AND fit. Just too tantalizing, although I do wonder if there might be lockerroom backlash as a result of Big Ben's understandable to a certain extent, but very poorly worded comments.
55. Tennessee Titans - Martellus Bennett TE/Texas A&M
I thought about Davis, Finley, or Carlson, but ultimately, if I want a TE, Bennett seems like such a playmaker. A small thought of Harrison, but Tennessee can't take that risk.
56. Seattle Seahawks - Fred Davis TE/USC
They addressed a RB of the future earlier. Now, they address more immediate needs, ranging from OG to perhaps some DB depth. That said, TE is the top area of immediate focus and Davis' polish in the passing game gives him the nod here as someone that could be an immediate weapon. TE's fell in this draft.
57. Cleveland Browns - Ahtyba Rubin DT/Iowa State
Cleveland NEEDS the big man.
58. Miami Dolphins (from San Diego Chargers) - John Carlson TE/Notre Dame
He just screams Parcells type TE for some reason. He's a well-rounded player that can block, but also has the quickness and athleticism to stretch while seemingly having solid hands. Could they look elsewhere? Perhaps, but here's some help now for whoever the QB is and fits Parcells MO of finding TE's to be matchup options.
59. Jacksonville Jaguars - Quentin Groves DE/Auburn
Well, he is definitely a pass rushed, and that is what Jacksonville needs, no doubt.
60. Indianapolis Colts - Oniel Cousins OT/UTEP
I think they need help on both sides of the trenches, and the value here is OL. Cousins could start inside first and get developed as tackle depth. His outside potential earned him the nod over other players.
61. Green Bay Packers - Erin Henderson LB/Maryland
Too good of value combined with a need at the position to have an absolute beastly LB corp.
62. Dallas Cowboys - Heath Benedict OL/Newberry
Big, physical OL guy that has tackle potential, but could start inside first. Seems like a Houck type project. WR options were weak here, so thus, we wait another round.
63. New England Patriots - Justin King CB/Penn State
I just feel like the Pats may go with the guy with the physical tools who can put it together with their coaching staff. Get King in there, let him develop, I think it can be a case of NE taking a guy they like and him working out.
64. New York Giants - Tracy Porter CB/Indiana
Smooth cover guy that seems like he could fit Spagnuolo well. I think the value here was better than at LB or S.
65. Miami Dolphins - Letroy Guion DT/Florida State
They need a NT here somewhere. Guion may be a little early here, but nothing else really jumps out at me.
66. St. Louis Rams - John Greco OL/Toldeo
Big, physical OL guy that has some tackle ability, but can start at guard. They can try him at RT (and Barron at LT) when Pace calls it quits. Fills their other big need.
67. Kansas City Chiefs - Donnie Avery WR/Houston
Went value here. Avery should be a 2nd rounder, and he can be a key part of KC's new offense. No DT made me stop and be excited, so I went BPA
68. New York Jets - Chris Ellis LB/Virgnia
I think he's getting undervalued a bit. He's a good edge option that could give them a solid pass rusher for the scheme. I think the value's fine in the 3rd.
69. New England Patriots (f/ OAK) - Beau Bell LB/UNLV
When we get into the 2nd day, sometimes teams don't pick completely on value but who they want. Keep this in mind with my next picks. Bell is a guy who can adjust to the 3-4. and I think he could be a guy the Pats develop into who they want.
70. Atlanta Falcons - Matt Forte RB/Tulane
I wanted to look somewhere else. But where? I think OL value is iffy here. LB? Who? I do think Forte is okay here, and in a draft devoid of many power guys, he will go higher than expected and could even land in the 2nd. He should pair well with Norwood. Better quickness, I think, than given credit for.
71. San Francisco 49ers - Andre Caldwell WR/Florida
Another player coached in the Senior Bowl by Nolan who comes to the 49ers. Caldwell did decent at the Senior Bowl and may catch Nolan's eye for a 3rd round pick.
72. Buffalo Bills (from Baltimore Ravens) - Jermichael Finley TE/Texas
A tantalizing TE weapon is needed, and he's quality value. With another pick, they can address another offensive focus area, and use their later picks to fill in depth concerns. Seems like a solid draft to me.
73. Buffalo Bills - Adarious Bowman WR/Oklahoma State
I think Bowman may do a little better in the combine than the Senior Bowl. That could justify a 3rd round pick. Bills get two playmakers in the row.
74. Minnesota Vikings (from Denver Broncos) - Jonathan Hefney S/Tennessee
I thought OT here for awhile. Decided S was more important and better value. Tough call. Hefney, Demps, Johnson were all intriguing. Went with Hefney for his versatility and buying in somewhat to the poor man's Bob Sanders assessment.
75. Carolina Panthers - Chad Henne QB/Michigan
I really like Henne and think he could be picked ahead of Brohm ultimately, but Carolina gets a steal in the 3rd.
76. Chicago Bears - Tyrell Johnson S/Arkansas State
I'm a huge fan of Tyrell Johnson and I've thought all along he could go in the 3rd. I actually think he might work his way up into the 2nd. I think SS is a slightly more pressing area for the Bears than FS. He is good against the run and has the range to develop in the passing game. WR and RB were long, long thoughts.
77. Detroit Lions - Dwight Lowery CB/San Jose State
78. Cincinnati Bengals - Brad Cottam TE/Tennessee
Marvin's made some noise about addressing TE. Cottam has the raw athletic ability, hands, and size to be a monster potentially. The bigger reason I went TE here is because I think they can find close value on OL/DE in the 4th/5th, whereas I think the TE fall is occurring in the late 3rd/early 4th.
79. New Orleans Saints - Ali Highsmith LB/New Orleans
80. Houston Texans - Xavier Adibi LB/Virginia Tech
I thought RB for a long time, but there's a lot of potential RB fits for the scheme in this draft. Then, I thought OL. Who? Thus, I finish trying to make a strong defense by adding a weakside linebacking option that fell. Adibi claims to play closer to 230 than he weighed in at the Senior Bowl. He'll fly around next to Ryans and give them an intriguing tandem.
81. Philadelphia Eagles - Jamaal Charles RB/Texas
82. Arizona Cardinals - Ezra Butler LB/Nevada
RB and CB were added earlier. I thought OL, didn't like the value, figured I'd "let" Russ Grimm coach someone up. Thus, I went to look at LB. Didn't find an ideal ILB to kick Dansby out. A lot of edge options. Then decided on Butler, who's versatility to play inside and out makes him a wonderful toy for Clancy Pendergast. In some ways, he's like Dansby.
83. Minnesota Vikings - Andre' Woodson QB/Kentucky
84. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Johnny Dingle DE/West Virginia
I was befuddled for a bit when making this pick. Where to? CB and WR were addressed. DT and DE could use a look. RB is a possibility. QB of the future is a thought. I'm not the biggest fan of Johnny Dingle, but he's been rising. There's some that think he can bulk up some more, so he might become more of a DT. But the thinking here was of Dingle as a strongside end.
85. Washington Redskins - Thomas Decoud S/California
86. Tennessee Titans - Chilo Rachal OG/USC
Where to? They've filled two offensive skill spots. DE? LB? DB? I went OG, where they may lose some guys. The reason I went OG, though, has to do with the DE value that exists on the board right now, giving them a shot at finding someone in the 4th.
87. Seattle Seahawks - Roy Schuening OG/Oregon State
I'm a big Roy fan. I think he is slightly underrated and can be a solid starter in the NFL. Maybe not Pro Bowl caliber, but still.
88. Cleveland Browns - Cliff Avril OLB/Purdue
A lot of thoughts. Started at RB and Kevin Smith. Talked myself out of it. Went to DL? Who is a great fit for them? They did add Rubin. Thus, settled on an edge guy that could work for the scheme.
89. Pittsburgh Steelers - Terrell Thomas CB/USC
This Steelers pick is perplexing. Could we go after a guard? Maybe, but no one is available of starting caliber, so can't it wait? The offense is taken care of with Hardy, so people say we may look at a rush backer. I don't know why since Pro Bowler Harrison is on one side and Woodley will get more time at the other. That leaves DE (where Smith getting hurt showed a weakness,) safety (Still can't sure it up, though there are plenty of guys to rotate in there,) and corner (depth is badly needed). That leaves me with either Marcus Harrison, DaJuan Morgan or Terrell Thomas. I don't think we will move to a 4-3 anymore, so I can address DE with little repercussion. I'm not sure if Morgan quite fits or will help any, and Harrison is a reach, so Thomas it is.
90. Jacksonville Jaguars - Darnell Terrell DB/Missouri
His athleticism may help him rise some more. I'm still not sure he's a cornerback, but he could provide depth at corner and safety. I was thinking DB, OL, or another end. Ruled the latter out, as 2 ends doesn't seem absolutely necessary and there's also value later. Thought OG ... but decided value could be added later.
91. Chicago Bears (from San Diego Chargers) - Chris Johnson RB/ECU
I think he is definitely worth a 3rd round pick. The best fit? Maybe not, but it is worth it.
92. Green Bay Packers - Darrell Robertson DE/Georgia Tech
I pondered a lot of directions here. A guy like Mike Pollak came to mind as a potential scheme fit. TE's also came to mind, someone like Dustin Keller. A back like Steve Slaton came to mind as well. WR's passed my mind as well. An OT like Tony Hills was a thought. Secondary help came to mind. In the end, it came down to best value (QB) or DE. I talked myself out of QB Josh Johnson and went with a young edge threat to groom as KGB's replacement. As an interesting side note, both guys are listed at 6'4" 247.
93. Dallas Cowboys - Jordy Nelson WR/Kansas State
I think we all either overrate or underrated Jordy on this board. He can be a solid guy in the slot, and he jammed Dallas' 1st round pick here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ek0ANQ8bRfo). I like him as a possession slot guy for Dallas.
94. Indianapolis Colts -DeMario Pressley DT/NC State
They could use some assets on the defensive side of the trenches, and Pressley could be a good NT fit for them. Was partly thinking a TE like Keller here.
95. New England Patriots - Tony Hills OT/Texas
I think O-line is a definite possibility for NE late. We'll see how Hills fits.
96. New York Giants - Quintin Demps S/UTEP
I was thinking LB and S. Couldn't figure out which LB to take, and I think Demps is a very solid safety talent.
97. Miami Dolphins - Trae Williams CB/South Florida
It's a need for Miami, and I think Trae Williams is a solid second day player overall.
98. St. Louis Rams -Jonathan Goff LB/Vanderbilt
Had a lot of ways to go with this one. Taking another CB wouldn't be the worst thing. Improved talent and size at LB is a thought. Another young runner could be pondered. More OL help couldn't be blamed after last year. Another young WR wouldn't be horrendous. Even a TE isn't the worst thought. Let's not rule out potentially the best value, which would be a QB. More DL ... can't complain. S? Tis a possible need. I'm thinking the front office may be thinking of filling the depth charts to be competitive next year rather than having a long term focus. Thus, I cross off a few areas. There's enough young CB's on the roster such that adding another one here would be only adding depth, unless they are really sold on someone. There's Pittman/Leonard at RB if Jackson, knock on wood, gets hurt. QB thus gets crossed off for this round, and while another end wouldn't hurt, they added Gholston and can fit things on the other side. Knock DT off, as Carriker will stay inside with Ryan, and there's capability with McMichael at TE. I'm looking LB, OL, WR, S. With Doucet and Greco, I feel like OL and WR, while they could use more, can probably wait. Thus, LB depth or S is where I'm looking. With Chillar as a FA, and rumors that he won't be resigned, I think LB outweighs safety as of now, and the nod goes to Jon Goff as a possible guy to challenge for a starting SAM backer spot.
99. New York Jets - Kendell Langford DE/Hampton
Langford is similar to Jason Hatcher in his ability to play DE in the 3-4 and have a big time impact, though a bit raw. I think it is a perfect 4th round pick for the Jets.
100. Oakland Raiders - Jerome Simpson WR/Coastal Carolina
So they've added a defensive tackle to penetrate and attack, and a LT to develop. What now? More OL? Certainly possible. WR? Can't be dismissed. RB? Could get a look? More DL help, inside or out, could be a consideration. Those are the areas I'm looking at mostly, with S/LB in the deep recesses of the mind, and CB on the bench. There's quality value at defensive end and wide receiver, making this a tough decision. The nod goes to Jerome Simpson, who I did somewhat forget about as a top 3 round pick. I think there's a very good chance he goes in the top 3 rounds, and I think wide receiver rates ahead of DE. His big hands could be a welcome target for Jamarcus Russell.
102. Atlanta Falcons - Martin Rucker TE/Missouri
I know Toon isn't a big Rucker guy, but he is a pass catcher, a playmaker Atlanta may need to pair with Ryan, and they let Crumpler go. Get younger at TE and get a new threat in the offense.
Edit by Toon: I'm actually a Rucker fan as a player. That is, I could see him becoming a very good receiving option. Just not sold on his value.
101. Kansas City Chiefs - Chad Rinehart OL/Northern Iowa
They've gone OL, CB, and WR. They could look a number of places. That said, their OL was a mess last year. Rinehart has some tackle ability but can start inside and they can see where the chips fall.
103. Baltimore Ravens - Shawn Crable LB/Michigan
Clady and Brohm are two great picks to start. I think corner is a real need, but no one is jumping out at me. Maybe it is something that needs to be reached for to address, but I just can't do it. Crable is fairly versatile for Baltimore, and who knows if Suggs will be around after next year. I think he can fill in down the line.
104. San Francisco 49ers
105. Denver Broncos
106. Carolina Panthers
107. Chicago Bears
108. Detroit Lions
109. Cincinnati Bengals
110. New Orleans Saints
111. Buffalo Bills
112. Philadelphia Eagles
113. Arizona Cardinals
114. Minnesota Vikings
115. Houston Texans
116. Denver Broncos (f/ WAS)
117. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
118. Seattle Seahawks
119. Cleveland Browns
120. Pittsburgh Steelers
121. Jacksonville Jaguars
122. Tennessee Titans
123. San Diego Chargers – forfeited for the selection of Paul Oliver DB in supplemental
124. Dallas Cowboys
125. Indianapolis Colts
126. Green Bay Packers
127. New England Patriots
128. New York Giants
1. Miami Dolphins - Chris Long DE/Virginia
With their cuts, I thought about Jake Long slightly, but until it is a viable option, I can't go away from Chris Long. He's legit, has the pedigree, is worthy of a #1 Overall pick, fits the system, has the UVA ties. It all makes sense.
2. St. Louis Rams - Vernon Gholston DE/the Ohio State
Does Vernon grade this high? No, I don't think so. I know there's a lot of talk about Carriker moving to end, thus allowing them to make an Ellis or Dorsey pick, but I'm taking it with a grain of salt. As for OL, there's growing talk that they are leaning that way, but I still have my doubts. They can add guys later to fill their interior needs and depth purposes, particularly in this draft. I still believe they need a pure edge guy, and I'm also a believe in taking the guy that makes the most sense for you, as long as the value is close. Gholston should be close. Think of the Saints a couple years back and how they were planning on taking Hawk had Bush not fallen.
3. Oakland Raiders - Glenn Dorsey DT/LSU
Unless Al Davis REALLY wants McFadden, Oakland really needs to shore up one of their lines. That being said, Oakland usually does something out of the ordinary, but until it starts to leak out, I don't think we really know. Between Oakland, Atlanta and Kansas City, all three could be looking at a number of the same prospects. This coin toss could determine a lot.
4. Atlanta Falcons - Matt Ryan QB/Boston College
By now, the majority of Falcons fans have probably gotten used to this pick. Instead of looking at what Matt Ryan can't do, let's look at what he can. No big mechanical issues. Good vision. Good feel in the pocket. Enough mobility. Solid intangibles. If you believe that his arm strength can develop a bit more, as many do, then it's understandable why some consider him a franchise QB. Is he on par with, Jamarcus Russell last year? Of course not. But a case can be made for him to be ahead of Brady Quinn. Sedrick Ellis, Darren McFadden, Jake Long all could get long consideration here.
5. Kansas City Chiefs - Jake Long OT/Michigan
I considered Ellis, definitely, I just am not sure if Kansas City can go with him to continue to bolster a good defense when their offense is struggling so much. Really, if they fix their O-line and LJ can run/stay healthy, could they be in playoff contention again? We saw Cleveland do it with a big time rookie OT (granted, it was a LT,) and some help in FA. Though Jake Long doesn't fix all the problems, he does sure up a right side for LJ to run behind. I think this is a good pick.
6. New York Jets - Phillip Merling DE/Clemson
Maybe a bit out of left field. A lot will come down to what he weighs in at for the combine. He probably has the frame to be in the 290's, but if he weighs in the low 270's, that'll shy 3-4 teams off. If he weighs closer to 280, or more, that'll get some attention. He's big strong, long. Impact 3-4 DE are hard to find, and he could be just that. We'll have to wait and see the athletic tools, but they are rmored to be excellent. Maybe the Jets pull the trigger on McFadden. I'm just not sure Mangini would do that, but who knows. Clady makes little sense here. Harvey was a passing thought, but Merling has more value. CB? Don't buy a 6th overall CB after dealing up for Revis. ILB? Don't buy it here with Harris in place.
7. New England Patriots (f/ SF) - Darren McFadden RB/Arkansas
I don't like it. They need defensive help, LB and secondary, but McFadden is too good to pass up. Even with Maroney playing well in the playoffs, not a whole lot of money is tied up in him anymore. If Brady falters, there is someone new to rely on. It would be interesting.
8. Baltimore Ravens - Ryan Clady OT/Boise State
A lot of possibilities were tempting. That said, Ryan Clady is arguably BPA. Do they go into the year trusting Jared Gaither, Adam Terry, and Marshal Yanda? I know there's a lot of positive publicity on Gaither this offseason. If he pans out, they can move him to RT, as Yanda is probably better suited as a depth tackle (or interior player). CB and QB are bigger needs, but the value on the latter is missing, and on the former, well, it might be a tad high.
9. Cincinnati Bengals - Sedrick Ellis DT/USC
Ellis could be a Top 5 pick possibly, and if the Bengals can land a BIG time D-lineman right here at #9, I have little doubt they would take it. It is one position they need more than anything, and Ellis falls into their laps.
10. New Orleans Saints - Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie DB/Tennessee State
I think he can rise this high. Maybe he won't and I end up going with another CB. If he does, he has the good size and man skills that may tempt. Maybe we are all overthinking this need at CB thing. Some teams just don't go that route. They could look RB/WR/TE/OL. I tend to think CB/LB/DT should be addressed fairly early, though, so we'll wait and see how it all plays out.
11. Buffalo Bills - Keith Rivers LB/USC
I think Rivers is a legit Top Ten pick. LB is a need for the Bills, and Rivers is versatile enough to fit in wherever they need him. I think it is a great fit in Buffalo.
12. Denver Broncos - Chris Williams OT/Vanderbilt
Interesting decision at this point. Is Kenny Phillips worth a mid-first? Seems questionable. LB here? Seems wasteful. DT? Who? They do need OT help, and Williams could be a good one for the scheme, and in general.
13. Carolina Panthers - Kenny Phillips DB/Miami (Fl)
With the re-signing of Wharton, if they keep him outside, they may look elsewhere. Safety is a major concern. With Phillips still on the board, it is hard to pass on a position of need with the talent he has
14. Chicago Bears - Joe Flacco QB/Delaware
Surprise? Perhaps. I've run it through several scenarios, and each time the Bears pass on QB in the first, they miss out on a top 4 QB in the 2nd. Is it worth it to reach on a Woodson there? Seems a poor idea, and at this point in time, I think the Bears draft a QB in the first. Do I think Flacco can work this high? Yes, but more than likely the Bears would try to deal down to nab a QB.
15. Detroit Lions - Derrick Harvey DE/Florida
A tough pick for me. Could look at McKelvin or Jenkins. Could look at Otah on the O-line. Could even take a look at RB or some other obscure position (you never know what Detroit will do). I like Harvey too much, and he could make an impact.
16. Arizona Cardinals - Rashard Mendenhall RB/Illinois
They could look a CB here to move Rolle to FS. They could look OL. They could look DL. An ILB is a thought, or they could go an edge guy. In the end, I think Mendenhall's value is way too good here. My original concern about his fit for Whisenhunt was size/power related, but if he's in the 220's, he's got good power from this legs, potentially better than Stewart.
17. Minnesota Vikings - Calais Campbell DE/Miami (Fl)
A little bit of a surprise. Lots of value elsewhere on the board (O-line, CB, etc). Calais seems like the type of DE that could fit right in Minnesota. With Udeze's illness, depth at DE gets less and less. It's hard, but Minnesota has to go with the edge guy here.
18. Houston Texans - Mike Jenkins DB/South Florida
I was tempted to go Felix Jones here. I really was, but in the end the potential to find RB fits later made me wait. DL can wait, although they could use another pass rusher. A LB is a long thought, but here? OL? Not their MO, but possible. In the end, I go DB, which is a big need. Jenkins can start next to Fred until Dunta gets back. If Dunta doesn't get back until next year, then Mike could move to S at that point, or stay as the nickel corner.
19. Philadelphia Eagles - Leodis McKelvin CB/Troy
Value is so great here. The Eagles need more depth in the secondary to compete with some of these major passing games. McKelvin could fit in nicely, eventually be a big time starter. I think it is a great value AND need pick.
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Mario Manningham WR/Michigan
Let me be clear. I don't like Manningham. I don't see the fascination. That said, WR seems the most likely spot to add. OL isn't a huge need, and DL value seems iffy at this point. LB/CB can wait barring elite talent, and RB depth exists. Manningham gives them a young deep receiver that they need.
21. Washington Redskins - Malcolm Kelly WR/Oklahoma
Washington may get Ocho Cinco? No, won't happen. If not, Kelly fits the type of guy they want and he could step up and be a #1 WR almost immediately (or at least in two-three years).
22. Dallas Cowboys (f/ CLE) - Aqib Talib CB/Kansas
Too tempting to pass up. Excellent ball skills, instincts, good length. Quickness is iffy, but he's not as horrible at man as some suggest as long as he maintains his technique. They could look elsewhere (OL/WR/RB all come to mind), but the value is too good to pass.
23. Pittsburgh Steelers - Jeff Otah OT/Pittsburgh
A steal right here for my team, the Steelers. Big time O-lineman out of Pitt going to the Steelers could be HUGE. If Otah does fall to 23 (doubtful,) or even close, maybe Pittsburgh will go up and get him. This could really help put the step back in the Steeler's offense
24. Tennessee Titans - Limas Sweed WR/Texas
The end value isn't there, and I don't think LB/G is needed here. TE is a reach, and thus, WR. Sweed's an interesting case. I'm not a huge fan ... but scouts seem to be. Typically, a guy gets hurt, and they slide down a bit, before having to work back up. The general consensus never had Sweed sliding down much, if at all. He is a big target who's strength may allow him to succeed at the pro level. That said, there must be some worries of Mike Williams and Dwayne Jarrett occurrences.
25. Seattle Seahawks - Jonathan Stewart RB/Oregon
Easy boring pick by Seattle here. But, Stewart is definitely worth a lot more than pick 25, so if Seattle wants to go RB and Stewart is here, it is a no brainer.
26. Jacksonville Jaguars - Devin Thomas WR/Michigan State
End value isn't there (I'm not huge on Lawrence Jackson). OL? Eh, it can wait. CB? Here? S? Sensabaugh is coming back. Thus, WR. Devin Thomas seems like the type of receiver they take. A big target with some intriguing athletic potential, except he has more quickness than some of their recent WR draft picks. If he pans out, he gives them an excellent downfield target.
27. San Diego Chargers - Reggie Smith DB/Oklahoma
He is versatile, can play safety or corner and can contribute wherever necessary for this defense. I thought slightly about Gosder, but nothing impresses. A quick thought about DeSean Jackson, but he doesn't seem to fit in San Diego. I'll take my chances with Reggie.
28. Dallas Cowboys - Felix Jones RB/Arkansas
Do I really want to make this pick? Nah. But I've got a hard time assessing where else. WR can wait as Jones has better value than the WR's. OL? Here? eh ... Jones seems to have better value as well.
29. San Francisco 49ers (f/ IND) - Kentwan Balmer DL/North Carolina
Balmer falls extremely far and SF can add to their 3-4 due to that. There is no reason Balmer should be around at 29, but we've seen this mock go a weird, yet very interesting way. Don't be surprised if Balmer does fall this far.
30. Green Bay Packers - Patrick Lee CB/Auburn
Was tempted to go LB ... but decided that since CB was a more pressing need, I'd nab Lee here. Big, athletic target that can be physical. Sounds like their starters.
31. New England Patriots - Forfeited
32. New York Giants - Carl Nicks OL/Nebraska
Is this a likely popular pick? Probably not. But Nicks is too tempting to pass, considering I've projected him, as of now, to potentially have closer to mid-first value. LB/CB depth is good in this draft. S value is arguably better in the midrounds. He's a physical player with LT potential. If he doesn't pan out as their long run LT, he could be their RT or a guard. Just too tempting.
33. Miami Dolphins - Gosder Cherilus OL/Boston College
After their cuts, Miami does need a RT pretty badly. Gosder is improving I think, so at 33, he isn't bad value
34. St. Louis Rams - Early Doucet WR/LSU
Do they really need to go OG here? Perhaps Albert makes more sense. I'm just wondering if they can afford to wait. They are rumored to want to get bigger at WR, along with younger. Doucet and Hardy was the decision, and I went Doucet for his readiness to help plus better quickness that might mesh with Al Saunders better than Hardy.
35. Atlanta Falcons - Sam Baker OT/USC
If Baker bulks up, I DO believe he can be a LT in the NFL. I thought about Albert, but I'm not as sold on Albert as Baker at this point. They do need a LT, and they likely have to go there now rather than later. It will be a pick many will hate, but oh well.
36. Kansas City Chiefs - Brandon Flowers CB/Virginia Tech
Will Flowers off-field stuff affect his status? Only time will tell. He's a guy that seems to be a good fit for Gunther and Herman, and they could use some talent at CB after adding OL talent. Of course, they could go more OL talent, as well as perhaps look WR. A lot of options.
37. New York Jets - DeSean Jackson WR/Cal
I went BPA here for the Jets. Is Jackson the best fit? No, but when a guy with this type of talent falls to the 2nd round, you HAVE to pick him up.
38. Oakland Raiders - Anthony Collins OT/Kansas
How much sway does Lane Kiffin have? Enough to get Baker here? Maybe I'm starting to overreact on the Kiffin status. Very possible. But that's what lead me down this road to Collins. Collins could fit very well for the offensive system. DE was a thought, but not loving Jackson here. WR and RB seem like they can wait.
39. Baltimore Ravens - Brian Brohm QB/Louisville
Maybe they buy Troy Smith, but Brohm in the 2nd is decent value and he is worth taking a shot on.
40. San Francisco 49ers - Dan Connor ILB/Penn State
I initially went elsewhere, but decided Connor was too good to pass. I think Brandon Moore would be a solid guy to give a shot, but they don't seem too enthused. Connor/Willis would be a nasty young tandem. The DL value seems iffy here and they did add Balmer. Edge options? Are they worth it here? Who's a WR value that fits?
41. New Orleans Saints - Curtis Lofton LB/Tennessee
LB has been a need for SO long. Time to go get it for NO
42. Buffalo Bills - Pat Sims DL/Auburn
I think he could work very well in a 4-3 tampa 2 and he gives them more bulk inside. I think they could use another talent at DT to try and boost the defensive ability, and I think Sims has good value there. I think there's enough WR/TE value to wait.
43. Denver Broncos - Jerod Mayo LB/Tennessee
Maybe a little odd, but they do want to move DJ back inside. No Safety value, and DT looked good to me, but Mayo got the slight nod
44. Carolina Panthers - Lavelle Hawkins WR/Cal
Readiness. That was the key. I think value is decent, but Hawkins seems like a readiness guy. They've gone down the big target path. Hawkins doesn't give them the elite quick guy, but he is quick, has solid speed, seems to run routes well and in general be a smart WR, and seems to have good hands. They could use a WR weapon. I don't think DE is worth it here (might as well give Charles Johnson a shot at this point). They've resigned their DT's, and value is iffy. LB? It can wait. They added a S earlier, and resigned their two OT's (along with OT value being iffy). QB of the future is not a more immediate need.
45. Chicago Bears - Branden Albert OL/Virginia
Good value, and fits a need. Seemed right to me.
46. Detroit Lions - Trevor Laws DL/Notre Dame
I believe Laws is a solid value and more importantly, a solid fit. He might have to play on the nose a bit with Redding there, but his experience 2-gapping should help, and his technical ability will allow it to work. Long run, he likely moves to become their 3-tech. I think they need to focus on the DL to really take off. RB value/fit was iffy, and I believe they can wait on CB/LB. TE was a thought, but Laws was more tempting.
47. Cincinnati Bengals - Phillip Wheeler LB/Georgia Tech
I like the fit in Cincinnati, as he can move to the weakside as they restructure their LBs. I thought about safety, but no one jumps out to me as mid-2nd round value.
48. Minnesota Vikings - Earl Bennett WR/Vanderbilt
He just screams Brad Childress to me for some reason. Seems like a smart fluid receiver. Reminds me of Reggie Brown a bit. Going the safety route was a long, long thought, but I think they need to add another WR in the first 2 rounds. RT can wait, as can TE, IMO.
49. Atlanta Falcons (from Houston Texans) - Dre Moore DT/Maryland
I really think Atlanta goes after a DT first day with Mike Smith as the head coach. I like Moore more than most (no pun intended)
50. Philadelphia Eagles - DaJuan Morgan DB/North Carolina State
Too tempting to pass. They need a young safety to groom, and Morgan has loads of talent. He's physical against the run and has the range to develop in the passing game. Seems like a great fit. DE value ... eh. There's enough guys that can be added later. There isn't really a LT talent to take here. WR was a thought, but Morgan seems so tantalizing, IMO, due to their need there.
51. Arizona Cardinals - Charles Godfrey CB/Iowa
I'm a big Godfrey guy. That's all
52. Washington Redskins - Lawrence Jackson DE/USC
After adding a WR, where do they look now? OL and CB are thoughts. I don't see the OL value as a necessity unless someone gets moved. Thus, CB or DE were the areas of focus, and I think Lawrence Jackson has better value than the CB options available. He's a 2-way end that seems capable of fitting Blache very well.
53. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Antoine Cason CB/Arizona
I like Cason in the Cover-2, like most people. Tampa is all about it, and they could use the depth.
54. Pittsburgh Steelers - James Hardy WR/Indiana
I think Hardy is just too tantalizing to not take. Sure, they could look elsewhere. But there's CB value later. DL value for them seems iffy here in terms of finding a value AND fit. Just too tantalizing, although I do wonder if there might be lockerroom backlash as a result of Big Ben's understandable to a certain extent, but very poorly worded comments.
55. Tennessee Titans - Martellus Bennett TE/Texas A&M
I thought about Davis, Finley, or Carlson, but ultimately, if I want a TE, Bennett seems like such a playmaker. A small thought of Harrison, but Tennessee can't take that risk.
56. Seattle Seahawks - Fred Davis TE/USC
They addressed a RB of the future earlier. Now, they address more immediate needs, ranging from OG to perhaps some DB depth. That said, TE is the top area of immediate focus and Davis' polish in the passing game gives him the nod here as someone that could be an immediate weapon. TE's fell in this draft.
57. Cleveland Browns - Ahtyba Rubin DT/Iowa State
Cleveland NEEDS the big man.
58. Miami Dolphins (from San Diego Chargers) - John Carlson TE/Notre Dame
He just screams Parcells type TE for some reason. He's a well-rounded player that can block, but also has the quickness and athleticism to stretch while seemingly having solid hands. Could they look elsewhere? Perhaps, but here's some help now for whoever the QB is and fits Parcells MO of finding TE's to be matchup options.
59. Jacksonville Jaguars - Quentin Groves DE/Auburn
Well, he is definitely a pass rushed, and that is what Jacksonville needs, no doubt.
60. Indianapolis Colts - Oniel Cousins OT/UTEP
I think they need help on both sides of the trenches, and the value here is OL. Cousins could start inside first and get developed as tackle depth. His outside potential earned him the nod over other players.
61. Green Bay Packers - Erin Henderson LB/Maryland
Too good of value combined with a need at the position to have an absolute beastly LB corp.
62. Dallas Cowboys - Heath Benedict OL/Newberry
Big, physical OL guy that has tackle potential, but could start inside first. Seems like a Houck type project. WR options were weak here, so thus, we wait another round.
63. New England Patriots - Justin King CB/Penn State
I just feel like the Pats may go with the guy with the physical tools who can put it together with their coaching staff. Get King in there, let him develop, I think it can be a case of NE taking a guy they like and him working out.
64. New York Giants - Tracy Porter CB/Indiana
Smooth cover guy that seems like he could fit Spagnuolo well. I think the value here was better than at LB or S.
65. Miami Dolphins - Letroy Guion DT/Florida State
They need a NT here somewhere. Guion may be a little early here, but nothing else really jumps out at me.
66. St. Louis Rams - John Greco OL/Toldeo
Big, physical OL guy that has some tackle ability, but can start at guard. They can try him at RT (and Barron at LT) when Pace calls it quits. Fills their other big need.
67. Kansas City Chiefs - Donnie Avery WR/Houston
Went value here. Avery should be a 2nd rounder, and he can be a key part of KC's new offense. No DT made me stop and be excited, so I went BPA
68. New York Jets - Chris Ellis LB/Virgnia
I think he's getting undervalued a bit. He's a good edge option that could give them a solid pass rusher for the scheme. I think the value's fine in the 3rd.
69. New England Patriots (f/ OAK) - Beau Bell LB/UNLV
When we get into the 2nd day, sometimes teams don't pick completely on value but who they want. Keep this in mind with my next picks. Bell is a guy who can adjust to the 3-4. and I think he could be a guy the Pats develop into who they want.
70. Atlanta Falcons - Matt Forte RB/Tulane
I wanted to look somewhere else. But where? I think OL value is iffy here. LB? Who? I do think Forte is okay here, and in a draft devoid of many power guys, he will go higher than expected and could even land in the 2nd. He should pair well with Norwood. Better quickness, I think, than given credit for.
71. San Francisco 49ers - Andre Caldwell WR/Florida
Another player coached in the Senior Bowl by Nolan who comes to the 49ers. Caldwell did decent at the Senior Bowl and may catch Nolan's eye for a 3rd round pick.
72. Buffalo Bills (from Baltimore Ravens) - Jermichael Finley TE/Texas
A tantalizing TE weapon is needed, and he's quality value. With another pick, they can address another offensive focus area, and use their later picks to fill in depth concerns. Seems like a solid draft to me.
73. Buffalo Bills - Adarious Bowman WR/Oklahoma State
I think Bowman may do a little better in the combine than the Senior Bowl. That could justify a 3rd round pick. Bills get two playmakers in the row.
74. Minnesota Vikings (from Denver Broncos) - Jonathan Hefney S/Tennessee
I thought OT here for awhile. Decided S was more important and better value. Tough call. Hefney, Demps, Johnson were all intriguing. Went with Hefney for his versatility and buying in somewhat to the poor man's Bob Sanders assessment.
75. Carolina Panthers - Chad Henne QB/Michigan
I really like Henne and think he could be picked ahead of Brohm ultimately, but Carolina gets a steal in the 3rd.
76. Chicago Bears - Tyrell Johnson S/Arkansas State
I'm a huge fan of Tyrell Johnson and I've thought all along he could go in the 3rd. I actually think he might work his way up into the 2nd. I think SS is a slightly more pressing area for the Bears than FS. He is good against the run and has the range to develop in the passing game. WR and RB were long, long thoughts.
77. Detroit Lions - Dwight Lowery CB/San Jose State
78. Cincinnati Bengals - Brad Cottam TE/Tennessee
Marvin's made some noise about addressing TE. Cottam has the raw athletic ability, hands, and size to be a monster potentially. The bigger reason I went TE here is because I think they can find close value on OL/DE in the 4th/5th, whereas I think the TE fall is occurring in the late 3rd/early 4th.
79. New Orleans Saints - Ali Highsmith LB/New Orleans
80. Houston Texans - Xavier Adibi LB/Virginia Tech
I thought RB for a long time, but there's a lot of potential RB fits for the scheme in this draft. Then, I thought OL. Who? Thus, I finish trying to make a strong defense by adding a weakside linebacking option that fell. Adibi claims to play closer to 230 than he weighed in at the Senior Bowl. He'll fly around next to Ryans and give them an intriguing tandem.
81. Philadelphia Eagles - Jamaal Charles RB/Texas
82. Arizona Cardinals - Ezra Butler LB/Nevada
RB and CB were added earlier. I thought OL, didn't like the value, figured I'd "let" Russ Grimm coach someone up. Thus, I went to look at LB. Didn't find an ideal ILB to kick Dansby out. A lot of edge options. Then decided on Butler, who's versatility to play inside and out makes him a wonderful toy for Clancy Pendergast. In some ways, he's like Dansby.
83. Minnesota Vikings - Andre' Woodson QB/Kentucky
84. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Johnny Dingle DE/West Virginia
I was befuddled for a bit when making this pick. Where to? CB and WR were addressed. DT and DE could use a look. RB is a possibility. QB of the future is a thought. I'm not the biggest fan of Johnny Dingle, but he's been rising. There's some that think he can bulk up some more, so he might become more of a DT. But the thinking here was of Dingle as a strongside end.
85. Washington Redskins - Thomas Decoud S/California
86. Tennessee Titans - Chilo Rachal OG/USC
Where to? They've filled two offensive skill spots. DE? LB? DB? I went OG, where they may lose some guys. The reason I went OG, though, has to do with the DE value that exists on the board right now, giving them a shot at finding someone in the 4th.
87. Seattle Seahawks - Roy Schuening OG/Oregon State
I'm a big Roy fan. I think he is slightly underrated and can be a solid starter in the NFL. Maybe not Pro Bowl caliber, but still.
88. Cleveland Browns - Cliff Avril OLB/Purdue
A lot of thoughts. Started at RB and Kevin Smith. Talked myself out of it. Went to DL? Who is a great fit for them? They did add Rubin. Thus, settled on an edge guy that could work for the scheme.
89. Pittsburgh Steelers - Terrell Thomas CB/USC
This Steelers pick is perplexing. Could we go after a guard? Maybe, but no one is available of starting caliber, so can't it wait? The offense is taken care of with Hardy, so people say we may look at a rush backer. I don't know why since Pro Bowler Harrison is on one side and Woodley will get more time at the other. That leaves DE (where Smith getting hurt showed a weakness,) safety (Still can't sure it up, though there are plenty of guys to rotate in there,) and corner (depth is badly needed). That leaves me with either Marcus Harrison, DaJuan Morgan or Terrell Thomas. I don't think we will move to a 4-3 anymore, so I can address DE with little repercussion. I'm not sure if Morgan quite fits or will help any, and Harrison is a reach, so Thomas it is.
90. Jacksonville Jaguars - Darnell Terrell DB/Missouri
His athleticism may help him rise some more. I'm still not sure he's a cornerback, but he could provide depth at corner and safety. I was thinking DB, OL, or another end. Ruled the latter out, as 2 ends doesn't seem absolutely necessary and there's also value later. Thought OG ... but decided value could be added later.
91. Chicago Bears (from San Diego Chargers) - Chris Johnson RB/ECU
I think he is definitely worth a 3rd round pick. The best fit? Maybe not, but it is worth it.
92. Green Bay Packers - Darrell Robertson DE/Georgia Tech
I pondered a lot of directions here. A guy like Mike Pollak came to mind as a potential scheme fit. TE's also came to mind, someone like Dustin Keller. A back like Steve Slaton came to mind as well. WR's passed my mind as well. An OT like Tony Hills was a thought. Secondary help came to mind. In the end, it came down to best value (QB) or DE. I talked myself out of QB Josh Johnson and went with a young edge threat to groom as KGB's replacement. As an interesting side note, both guys are listed at 6'4" 247.
93. Dallas Cowboys - Jordy Nelson WR/Kansas State
I think we all either overrate or underrated Jordy on this board. He can be a solid guy in the slot, and he jammed Dallas' 1st round pick here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ek0ANQ8bRfo). I like him as a possession slot guy for Dallas.
94. Indianapolis Colts -DeMario Pressley DT/NC State
They could use some assets on the defensive side of the trenches, and Pressley could be a good NT fit for them. Was partly thinking a TE like Keller here.
95. New England Patriots - Tony Hills OT/Texas
I think O-line is a definite possibility for NE late. We'll see how Hills fits.
96. New York Giants - Quintin Demps S/UTEP
I was thinking LB and S. Couldn't figure out which LB to take, and I think Demps is a very solid safety talent.
97. Miami Dolphins - Trae Williams CB/South Florida
It's a need for Miami, and I think Trae Williams is a solid second day player overall.
98. St. Louis Rams -Jonathan Goff LB/Vanderbilt
Had a lot of ways to go with this one. Taking another CB wouldn't be the worst thing. Improved talent and size at LB is a thought. Another young runner could be pondered. More OL help couldn't be blamed after last year. Another young WR wouldn't be horrendous. Even a TE isn't the worst thought. Let's not rule out potentially the best value, which would be a QB. More DL ... can't complain. S? Tis a possible need. I'm thinking the front office may be thinking of filling the depth charts to be competitive next year rather than having a long term focus. Thus, I cross off a few areas. There's enough young CB's on the roster such that adding another one here would be only adding depth, unless they are really sold on someone. There's Pittman/Leonard at RB if Jackson, knock on wood, gets hurt. QB thus gets crossed off for this round, and while another end wouldn't hurt, they added Gholston and can fit things on the other side. Knock DT off, as Carriker will stay inside with Ryan, and there's capability with McMichael at TE. I'm looking LB, OL, WR, S. With Doucet and Greco, I feel like OL and WR, while they could use more, can probably wait. Thus, LB depth or S is where I'm looking. With Chillar as a FA, and rumors that he won't be resigned, I think LB outweighs safety as of now, and the nod goes to Jon Goff as a possible guy to challenge for a starting SAM backer spot.
99. New York Jets - Kendell Langford DE/Hampton
Langford is similar to Jason Hatcher in his ability to play DE in the 3-4 and have a big time impact, though a bit raw. I think it is a perfect 4th round pick for the Jets.
100. Oakland Raiders - Jerome Simpson WR/Coastal Carolina
So they've added a defensive tackle to penetrate and attack, and a LT to develop. What now? More OL? Certainly possible. WR? Can't be dismissed. RB? Could get a look? More DL help, inside or out, could be a consideration. Those are the areas I'm looking at mostly, with S/LB in the deep recesses of the mind, and CB on the bench. There's quality value at defensive end and wide receiver, making this a tough decision. The nod goes to Jerome Simpson, who I did somewhat forget about as a top 3 round pick. I think there's a very good chance he goes in the top 3 rounds, and I think wide receiver rates ahead of DE. His big hands could be a welcome target for Jamarcus Russell.
102. Atlanta Falcons - Martin Rucker TE/Missouri
I know Toon isn't a big Rucker guy, but he is a pass catcher, a playmaker Atlanta may need to pair with Ryan, and they let Crumpler go. Get younger at TE and get a new threat in the offense.
Edit by Toon: I'm actually a Rucker fan as a player. That is, I could see him becoming a very good receiving option. Just not sold on his value.
101. Kansas City Chiefs - Chad Rinehart OL/Northern Iowa
They've gone OL, CB, and WR. They could look a number of places. That said, their OL was a mess last year. Rinehart has some tackle ability but can start inside and they can see where the chips fall.
103. Baltimore Ravens - Shawn Crable LB/Michigan
Clady and Brohm are two great picks to start. I think corner is a real need, but no one is jumping out at me. Maybe it is something that needs to be reached for to address, but I just can't do it. Crable is fairly versatile for Baltimore, and who knows if Suggs will be around after next year. I think he can fill in down the line.
104. San Francisco 49ers
105. Denver Broncos
106. Carolina Panthers
107. Chicago Bears
108. Detroit Lions
109. Cincinnati Bengals
110. New Orleans Saints
111. Buffalo Bills
112. Philadelphia Eagles
113. Arizona Cardinals
114. Minnesota Vikings
115. Houston Texans
116. Denver Broncos (f/ WAS)
117. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
118. Seattle Seahawks
119. Cleveland Browns
120. Pittsburgh Steelers
121. Jacksonville Jaguars
122. Tennessee Titans
123. San Diego Chargers – forfeited for the selection of Paul Oliver DB in supplemental
124. Dallas Cowboys
125. Indianapolis Colts
126. Green Bay Packers
127. New England Patriots
128. New York Giants