2010 Draft?

[ZachLV27]

im gonna agree with most of u guys.. no need for a dt in 1st (even though there are some intriguing guys), cb only if haden is there, ditto for lb and mcclain.. which leaves us with de position.. i dont like dunlap at all, dont like guys with questionable atitudes and inconsistent play.. jpp could be great, but hes the biggest ? mark.. two guys i would not mind at all are morgan and griffen.. in that order.. very intriguing though, is the thought of sergio kindle.. while de in college he would likely have to be moved to olb in the pros right? now, he seems strictly a pass rusher, with questionable abilities in other lb duties.. and we really dont blitz with our olbs.. so it would seem he doesnt fit our team, but i saw he came in for a visit.. i think he would give us another very interesting option to our d, as a pass rushing lb.. what do you think?

As you said Kindle's best attribute is in his pass rushing and he's seen as quite weak against the run. That pretty much makes him a 3-4 OLB and a real bad fit as a 4-3 LB.

[torcida]

As you said Kindle's best attribute is in his pass rushing and he's seen as quite weak against the run. That pretty much makes him a 3-4 OLB and a real bad fit as a 4-3 LB.

yes, that was about my reasoning as well, but why did we bring him in for a visit? thinking of maybe trying him as a de?

[ZachLV27]

And now the draft has just changed completely. Where do the Redskins go with their pick now and where does Clausen now drop to?

[TTP77]

If the SKins are smart they will draft the best OT on the board. That's their big weakness. I'll be shocked if Clausen gets picked before the second round now. Which IMO is where he should go. He could go to the Bills though at #9.

[TTP77]

Also, I would gladly draft a DT in the first. Numbers don't mean goodness (is that word used right there?). Ok, we may have numbers at DT but they aren't all that good really. Losing Jason Jones last year hurt the line tremendously. Tony Brown is an RFA who isn't working out with the team and who hasn't signed his RFA tender. Now he likely will and all that but still he, Jones and Marks are the only keepers in the group. One more high quality DT IMO would be spectaculous! I wouldn't hate it at all if we drafted Brian Price....

[ZachLV27]

If the SKins are smart they will draft the best OT on the board. That's their big weakness. I'll be shocked if Clausen gets picked before the second round now. Which IMO is where he should go. He could go to the Bills though at #9.

I like Clausen but all season long I was saying he was a 2nd or 3rd round pick, but being the 2nd best QB in this draft will probably make it so he is still drafted in the 1st round. I don't see him getting past Cleveland, Buffalo, Jacksonville, and Seattle (at 14). Looking through the league it is kinda weird seeing so many teams being set on their current QB situation. Outside of those 4 teams and the Raiders (no possible way do they use a 1st rd pick on a QB after the way Russell has turned out) every team seems set on a veteran or have their possible QB of the future.

[TTP77]

I don't think he's first round talent either. I only mocked him to the Skins because of Snyder. But the Bills have done some strange things. If J'ville drafts a QB in the first it will be Tebow. JMO (which I also think would be a mistake at the #10 spot). It would be funny though if Holmgren drafted him. Didn't he pretty much say he wasn't enamored of the guy? No way Pete Carrol drafts this guy IMO.

[ZachLV27]

I don't think he's first round talent either. I only mocked him to the Skins because of Snyder. But the Bills have done some strange things. If J'ville drafts a QB in the first it will be Tebow. JMO (which I also think would be a mistake at the #10 spot). It would be funny though if Holmgren drafted him. Didn't he pretty much say he wasn't enamored of the guy? No way Pete Carrol drafts this guy IMO.

Carrol really wanted him to come to USC. Not that college and the NFL are anything alike nor is it 4 years ago, but I think he still likes him.

As for Holmgren. Was he speaking the truth? He could have just as easily meant what he said as he could have been trying to make it look like he had no interest in him. One can never tell this time of year.

I won't even get started on Tebow...

[TTP77]

Carroll may have recruited him but he went to ND where his former coach acted like an a-hole toward Carroll and said he was living with a young co-ed. From what I understand Jimmy and Big Boy are still tight. Shrug, still it's bizness so anything can happen I suppose.

Who knows if Holmgren is fibbing or not? He does have a LOT of money tied up at the position already. I think they will draft a later round QB. I've thought all along the later rounds QB were much better value based on the talent level in this year's draft.

The lil Jaggie fan base would erupt if the FO drafted Clausen over Tebow. (What little they have). You know it's true. They cannot afford to lessen the fan support right now. They are barely surviving.

[TTP77]

Cincinnati wide receiver Mardy Gilyard will be in Tennessee on Wednesday to meet with the Titans, according to a league source.

The All-American wideout caught 87 passes for 1,191 yards and 11 touchdowns for the 12-1 Bearcats in 2009. Gilyard caught 25 touchdowns in three years at Cincinnati while hauling in 168 passes over the past two seasons.

The 6’0”, 187-pounder is currently the NFP’s tenth-ranked wide receiver prospect in this year’s draft class. Gilyard turned some head’s at January’s Senior Bowl when he caught five passes for a game-high 103 yards and one touchdown.

The Titans could be a good fit for Gilyard as the team ranked 23rd in passing last season (189.4 yds/gm) and didn’t have a single receiver catch more than 50 passes on the year.

NFP. Not saying we won't draft a WR but I don't think he understands how we use them.

[TTP77]

UCLA defensive tackle and first-round draft prospect Brian Price is scheduled to visit the New England Patriots and the Atlanta Falcons this month, according to a source close to the program with knowledge of the situation.

Price has previously visited the San Diego Chargers.

Price is also set to visit the Philadelphia Eagles, New Orleans Saints and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Price has impressed NFL scouts with his aggressiveness, quickness and ability to penetrate the backfield.

At the NFL scouting combine, Price bench pressed 225 pounds 34 times and ran the 40-yard dash in 5.12 seconds. He also posted a 28 1/2 inch vertical leap and an 8-foot broad jump.

Price was named the Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year last season, recording 48 tackles, 23 1/2 for losses and seven sacks.

Price is highly regarded for his explosiveness and work ethic.

As a sophomore, Price was first-team All-Pac-10 as he registered 35 tackles, 14 for losses and four sacks.

Shorter and stockier than many of the top defensive linemen, Price's instincts and technique, including a rip-swim move, have been lauded by NFL scouts.

Price has overcome significant personal adversity.

Price grew up in a bad neighborhood in South Central Los Angeles, and two of his brothers were shot and killed.

NFP

[TTP77]

JIM WYATT, The Tennessean

If there's a wild card position for the Titans in this year's NFL Draft it could be safety. Veteran strong safety Chris Hope is scheduled to make big money in the final two years of his contract, so it might be time to start looking for his replacement.

On Wednesday, one of the top safeties in this year's draft will visit Baptist Sports Park. Earl Thomas of Texas might be more of a free safety-type because of his athleticism, but he's regarded as the best safety overall behind Tennessee's Eric Berry.

Thomas needs to get bigger and stronger, but he's a heck of a player. And we all know how much the Titans like former Longhorns.

Hope, by the way, is scheduled to earn base salaries of $5.5 million in 2010 and $6.5 million in '11. He's coming off a season where he slipped a bit, although the Titans think he'll be able to bounce back.

Another intriguing prospect is also scheduled to visit the Titans this week: Cincinnati receiver Mardy Gilyard. He's a lightning-quick player and a solid return man, something the Titans need.

[TTP77]

As more pre-draft prospects file through Baptist Sports Park, it made me wonder just how many of last year’s 30 visitors were actually picked by the Titans in the 2009 draft.

The answer: 3, including the team’s first 2 picks.

Receiver Kenny Britt, defensive tackle Sen’Derrick Marks and running back Javon Ringer all visited BSP in the weeks leading up to the draft.

Of course that means most of them went elsewhere, either because other teams snatched them up before the Titans got a chance or because the team figured out it wasn’t all that interested. Remember, these visits can also convince a team it’s not interested in a player.

Below is a look at last year’s visitors. Go ahead and start imagining how they would’ve looked in a Titans uniform. Keep in mind the Titans got a break against the number on local guys.

2009 pre-draft visits:

CB Darius Butler (Connecticut)

RB Glenn Coffee (Alabama)

QB Josh Freeman (Kansas State)

WR Darrius Hayward-Bey (Maryland)

S Reshard Langford (Vanderbilt)

OL Cornelius Lewis (TSU)

WR Marko Mitchell (Nevada)

CB D.J. Moore (Vanderbilt)

OL Cecil Newton (TSU)

WR Mike Wallace (Ole Miss)

RB Javarris Williams (TSU)

DE Connor Barwin (Cincinnati)

WR Kenny Britt (Rutgers)

RB Andre Brown (NC State)

WR Demetrius Byrd (LSU)

CB Jarius Byrd (Oregon)

LB Brian Cushing (USC)

RB Jeremiah Johnson (Oregon)

DT Sen’Derrick Marks (Auburn)

WR Mohamed Massquoi (Georgia)

DT Roy Miller (Texas)

TE Shawn Nelson (Southern Miss)

RB Javon Ringer (Mich. State)

DE Lawrence Sidbury (Richmond)

DE David Veikune (Hawaii)

DB Lardarius Webb (Nicholls State)

LB Jason Williams (Western Illinois)

WR Percy Harvin (Florida)

CB Malcolm Jenkins (Ohio State)

LB Clay Matthews (USC)

LB Rey Maualuga (USC)

DE Aaron Maybin (Penn State)

WR Hakeem Nicks (North Carolina)

DT Everette Pedescleaux (Northern Iowa)

CB Alphonso Smith (Wake Forest)

WR Patrick Turner (USC)

Wyatt blog

[TTP77]

I think it's funny how everyone thinks a team should trade down to get the player they want. Like trades materialize out of the blue. The most obvious example being the Lions taking an OT at the 2 spot versus trading down to take one at #4. Regardless of which player the teams in the top 5 draft, they are going to overpay a guy. I don't get the logic that it's ok to overpay a DT who if he turns out to be dominant will likely only play at that level for how long? Maybe 5 or 6 years? Versus an OT who can play at a high lever for quite a bit longer. I didn’t do any extensive research so all this is based on perception but it just seems that good quality olinemen play a whole lot longer and are more likely to remain with their original teams. Besides, who’s to say the Bucs won’t think along these same lines. They have a young possible franchise QB with two of the worst OT’s too. According to ProFootballFocus, Jeremy Trueblood (RT) gave up 8 QB sacks, 9 QB hits and 35 QB pressures. Donald Penn (LT) wasn’t much better with 5 QB sacks, 9 QB hits, and 32 QB pressures.

Don’t get me wrong I love Kong Suh and Gerald McCoy (we need a nickname I guess) but I don’t see why it makes sense to draft a DT over a good quality LT who btw not only protects your QB but can also help produce a good run game. Both the Bucs and the Lions had absolutely terrible run games last year.

[ZachLV27]

If I had to guess I'd say you can look at the Titans for your answer. A really good offensive line can be built with guys drafted in the later rounds. A really good defensive line usually has some high draft pick in it.

Now, I have absolutely no statistics to back that up and could be completely wrong. It's just how I see it at least.

[TTP77]

That still doesn't answer the whole he's good enough to draft at the #4 spot but not at #2 spot. You're overpaying either way. The Titans got a good DT in the second in Jason Jones (please stay healthy Jason!). I get your point it still just seems overblown to me. It's all kinda a crap shoot anyway.

[Southside Tirant]

"AFC South draft grades"

Tennessee: B
Total picks made: 28
Picks on current roster: 22
Touchdowns: RB Chris Johnson, FS Michael Griffin, WR Kenny Britt, DT Jason Jones
Fumbles: RB Chris Henry, WR Paul Williams
Jury still out: DT Sen'Derrick Marks, TE Jared Cook


Analysis: The Titans have knocked it out of the park with their first-round picks. Johnson and Griffin have already earned Pro Bowl berths in their young careers, and Johnson is regarded by some as the best runner in the game. Britt appears to be the No. 1 receiver the team has been missing for years. Although Henry can officially be labeled a bust, the team has generally avoided the big mistakes in early rounds and sports a roster rich in young talent.

Indianapolis: B-
Total picks made: 26
Picks on current roster: 19
Touchdowns: FS Antoine Bethea, OLB Clint Session, WR Pierre Garcon, WR Austin Collie
Fumbles: OT Tony Ugoh, DB Dante Hughes, DT Quinn Pitcock
Jury still out: G Mike Pollak, QB Curtis Painter


Analysis: Team president Bill Polian has transformed the Colts into a perennial contender by consistently drafting and developing players who are ideal fits in the team's system. These players are often unheralded collegians, but their ability to blossom as pros is a testament to the Colts' keen insight on the match between player and system. Bethea, Garcon and Collie are prime examples. In addition to their draftees, the Colts have been able to transform several undrafted players into key contributors. Melvin Bullitt and Jacob Lacey are a few of the many undrafted players who have developed into playmakers for the Colts. Although Indianapolis has enjoyed tremendous success with the young players, the team has also had its fair share of failures with Ugoh, Hughes and Pitcock ranking as lowlights. Regardless, the team's ability to grow its own talent is a reflection of the solid performance by its personnel department.

Houston: C+
Total picks made: 22
Picks on current roster: 19
Touchdowns: OLB Brian Cushing, OT Duane Brown, OLB Zac Diles, RB Steve Slaton
Fumbles: DT Amobi Okoye, CB Antwaun Molden
Jury still out: DE Connor Barwin


Analysis: The Texans have assembled a roster that is brimming with talent on both sides of the ball. Although most of their top players are veterans, the Texans have had a few of their recent draft picks provide outstanding production in their rookie seasons. Cushing earned a Pro Bowl berth as a rookie starter last season, and his stellar play also netted him the Defensive Rookie of the Year award. Slaton also enjoyed a sensational debut season in 2008 while finishing as the league's seventh-leading rusher. Though Slaton failed to duplicate the feat in his second season, his dynamic playmaking ability has been a boon to their offensive attack. While the team has gotten good production from its most recent top picks (Brown and Cushing), the Texans have yet to see Okoye provide an impact. The 2007 first-rounder has 8.5 career sacks, but 5.5 of those sacks were recorded in his rookie season.

Jacksonville: C-
Total picks made: 25
Picks on current roster: 16
Touchdowns: OT Eugene Monroe, WR Mike Sims-Walker, MLB Justin Durant, DT Terrence Knighton
Fumbles: DE Derrick Harvey, DE Quentin Groves
Jury still out: FS Reggie Nelson


Analysis: The Jags have been maddeningly inconsistent over the past three seasons, and their unpredictable performance can be attributed to the scattershot play of their top draft picks. Harvey and Groves were virtually non-existent off the edge last season, and Jacksonville's 2007 first-round pick, Nelson, has been a relative non-factor since having a solid rookie campaign. Though Sims-Walker, Durant and Knighton have been pleasant surprises, the team's inability to strike big in the draft's later rounds has left it with little depth at key positions.

http://www.nfl.com/draft/story?id=09000d5d81759716&template=with-video-with-comments&confirm=true

[ZachLV27]

That still doesn't answer the whole he's good enough to draft at the #4 spot but not at #2 spot. You're overpaying either way. The Titans got a good DT in the second in Jason Jones (please stay healthy Jason!). I get your point it still just seems overblown to me. It's all kinda a crap shoot anyway.

Ah okay. I didn't see what you were getting at with that.

Looking at last years draft the #2 pick got $12.4 mil per season and the #4 pick got $10 mil per season. That was an OT and a LB so not exactly the same thing to compare to. While you're overpaying for both of them you're doing it at $2.4 mil a year more just 2 picks higher. Now looking at the next OT taken (Andre Smith taken 6th) we can see he got $6.5 mil per season. Trading from the 2nd to the 4th spot usually has more to do with picking up an extra draft pick then it does with player salaries but once you get outside the top 5 picks the salaries drop off dramatically.

It is all a crap shoot either way and there will always be a few busts who get paid way too much money. That is as long as the players get their way. If the owners get their way things will change.

[Southside Tirant]

"Mock draft 5.0: Ripple effect of the McNabb deal"

1. St Louis Rams
Sam Bradford, QB Oklahoma
The first rule in the draft process is never pass on a franchise QB. Bradford worked well at his pro day, there is medical assurance he is healthy and as one head coach said to me after Bradford's workout, "He reminds me of Troy Aikman with that accuracy." (Previous pick: Bradford; second round: Golden Tate, WR, Notre Dame)

2. Detroit Lions
Russell Okung, OT Oklahoma State
I would still take Ndamukong Suh at this spot and finish off the defensive rebuild, but it looks more like an offensive tackle to protect Matthew Stafford. The ripple effect of taking an OT here will be felt down to the middle of the first round. (Previous pick: Suh; second round: Jonathan Dwyer, RB, Georgia Tech)

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Ndamukong Suh, DT Nebraska
The Bucs have to choose between defensive tackles Suh and Gerald McCoy; size and college production tip the scales in Suh's favor. Seventy-seven plays behind the line of scrimmage are impressive. (Previous pick: Gerald McCoy; second round: Kareem Jackson, CB, Alabama)

4. Washington Redskins
Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma
Now that the Redskins have their QB in McNabb, it's time to get an offensive tackle. Williams has 39 college starts and is an excellent athlete. Coach Mike Shanahan will have to push him to get the most out of him. The Redskins have no second-round pick, so a move down in the draft is likely to acquire more picks. (Previous pick: Russell Okung; no second-round pick

5. Kansas City Chiefs
Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa
Scott Pioli factors a lot more than height, weight and speed into his evaluation and he gets a very solid tackle who can be plugged in for 10 years. (Previous pick: Bulaga; second round: Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma and Morgan Burnett, S, Georgia Tech)

6. Seattle Seahawks
Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma
McCoy could fall right into the laps of the Seahawks, which would be a perfect fit for Pete Carroll's defense. If he's not there, then they could take a long, hard look at Trent Williams, if he's there, or S Eric Berry. (Previous pick: C.J. Spiller; second round: Damian Williams, WR, USC)

7. Cleveland Browns
Eric Berry, S, Tennessee
Cleveland will put off a QB decision to a later round and can skip cornerback with the acquisition of Sheldon Brown. The best player on the board is Berry and it satisfies a need. (Previous pick: Berry; second round: Jahvid Best, RB, Cal)

8. Oakland Raiders
Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers
With the Redskins acquiring McNabb, it places more pressure on the offensive tackle population. Davis is raw but the upside is there and his play style is intense. (Previous pick: Davis; second round: Daryl Washington, LB, TCU

9. Buffalo Bills
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame
The run on offensive tackles will possibly see four of the top eight picks come from the pass protector position. The Bills need a tackle but getting a young talented QB makes the most sense. In the second round, they grab Clausen a big receiving target. (Previous pick: Clausen; second round: Arrelious Benn, WR, Illinois)

10. Jacksonville Jaguars
Earl Thomas, S, Texas
Thomas has been up and down the draft board. I have been told he's a late first-rounder, and then moments later I'm told he's the best safety in the draft. The Jags only have six picks and it wouldn't surprise me to see them trade down to pick up a second-round pick because right now they don't have another pick until No. 74. (Previous pick: Demaryius Thomas)

11. Denver Broncos
Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama
The Broncos fortified their defensive front with new veterans and now they turn to an inside linebacker with pass rush skills. (Previous pick: McClain; second round: Jerry Hughes, DE/OLB, TCU)

12. Miami Dolphins
Sergio Kindle, OLB, Texas
There's lots of speculation they will draft NT Dan Williams here, but Bill Parcells' history says Miami will go with an outside linebacker that can rush the passer. Hard to resist a guy that had 57 plays behind the line of scrimmage. One former NFL man said, "I liked Sergio more than (Brian) Orakpo when they played together." (Previous pick: Kindle; second round: Terrence Cody, NT, Alabama)

13. San Francisco 49ers
Joe Haden, CB, Florida
The trade that sent Sheldon Brown from the Eagles to the Browns now puts Haden in play for teams in this range of the first round. (Previous pick: Trent Williams; second round: Colt McCoy, QB, Texas)

14. Seattle Seahawks
C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson
Spiller can touch the ball 20 times a game in a combination of rushes, receptions and returns. He will be a very dangerous player in Carroll's new offense, which needs a Reggie Bush-type player. (Previous pick: Derrick Morgan)

15. New York Giants
Sean Weatherspoon, LB, Missouri
The Giants would love a shot at McClain but he should be gone by now. Don't underestimate Weatherspoon, even though he's getting little hype leading up to the draft. He can run 4.6 at 239 pounds, squat 770 pounds, and had 400 tackles in college. (Previous pick: Weatherspoon; second round: Rodger Saffold, OT, Indiana)

16. Tennessee Titans
Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech
The Titans need a defensive end and it comes down to Morgan and South Florida's Jason Pierre-Paul. The experience and production favors Morgan. The Titans must be right with this pick because they have no pick in the second round. (Previous pick: Pierre-Paul)

17. San Francisco 49ers
Mike Iupati, G, Idaho
The 49ers solved their cornerback issue four picks earlier and now it's the versatile tough guy who can play guard or right tackle. He's Mike Singletary's kind of player and Singletary has more power in the draft room with the release of Scot McCloughan. (Previous pick: Joe Haden)

18. Pittsburgh Steelers
Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State
The Steelers need a starting corner and Wilson's return skills come in handy. With the Bengals and Ravens beefing up their passing attacks Pittsburgh has to improve in coverage. (Previous pick: Wilson; second round: John Asamoah, G/C, Illinois)

19. Atlanta Falcons
Brandon Graham, OLB/DE, Michigan
Graham fits in the front seven as a hybrid player and the eventual replacement for John Abraham if he doesn't have a bounce-back season. Graham made 85 plays behind the line of scrimmage in his college career. They do not have a second-round pick from the Tony Gonzalez trade. (Previous pick: Graham)

20. Houston Texans
Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee
Lots of people think the Texans will go with a running back, but a big defensive tackle to finally shore up the front is too good to pass up. (Previous pick: Williams; second round: Ben Tate, WR, Auburn)

21. Cincinnati Bengals
Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida
The Bengals could go a lot of different ways, all of which are defensive. Pierre-Paul is raw talent personified but defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer will get the most out of him. (Previous pick: Taylor Mays; second round: Rob Gronkowski, TE, Arizona)

22. New England Patriots
Jared Odrick, DT, Penn State
The signing of Damione Lewis last week does not suggest the defensive line issues are solved. Odrick can play in any front and should be effective. (Previous pick: Odrick; second round: Aaron Hernandez, TE, Florida; Thaddeus Gibson, DE/OLB, Ohio State; Tim Tebow, QB, Florida)

23. Green Bay Packers
Maurkice Pouncey, C, Florida
Pouncey can play guard or center and will be a 10-year starter in the NFL. In the second round a corner could help the secondary. (Previous pick: Pouncey; second round: Perrish Cox, CB, Oklahoma State)

24. Philadelphia Eagles
Taylor Mays, S, USC
The Eagles, who have been active in the trade business lately, may not be done; they have accumulated 11 picks already. Mays is a unique athlete and could bring a dimension to a defense that has been missing since Brian Dawkins left for Denver. (Previous pick: Mike Iupati; second round: Navorro Bowman, LB, Penn State)

25. Baltimore Ravens
Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida
The Ravens fixed their wide receiver issues this offseason with Anquan Boldin, Donte Stallworth and the re-signing of Derrick Mason. Now on to a defense that lost Justin Bannan and Dwan Edwards in free agency. Trevor Pryce isn't getting any younger. At 6-foot-6, 277 pounds, Dunlap could become a fine player. Ray Lewis will shape him up quickly. (Previous pick: Dunlap; second round: Brandon Spikes, LB, Florida)

26. Arizona Cardinals
Brian Price, DT, UCLA
Price had a questionable pro day, which didn't help his draft status, but the game tapes suggest something different. This guy has a very good first step, is disruptive and will flash Warren Sapp-like skills. (Previous pick: Price; second round: Donald Butler, LB, Washington)

27. Dallas Cowboys
Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State
The release of Flozell Adams points to left tackle in the first round but there's no way a guy like Bruce Campbell would be ready early. Bryant positions the Cowboys to move away from Roy Williams in a year. In the second round, Dallas selects Campbell and sits him for a year.(Previous pick: Bruce Campbell; second round: Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland)

28. San Diego Chargers
Ryan Mathews, RB, Fresno State
The Chargers need a running back and now people think they will head in a different direction. But they need to take the guy who will touch the ball 15-20 times a game as a rookie. He had 1,800 yards as a senior at Fresno State.(Previous pick: Mathews; second round: Nate Allen, S, South Florida)

29. New York Jets
Demaryius Thomas, WR Georgia Tech
The Jets may get a legit shot at the player known as "Little Calvin" because of the things he does on the field like Calvin Johnson. Mark Sanchez needs weapons and this guy averaged 19 yards a catch in a run offense. (Previous pick: Dez Bryant; second round: Corey Wooton, DE, Northwestern)

30. Minnesota Vikings
Patrick Robinson, CB, Florida State
The Vikings need a corner, especially with the health issues that surround the position and with all the nickel and dime defense they play. There could be some interesting comparisons to Devin McCourty from Rutgers. In the second round, they get a young space-eater that eventually replaces Pat Williams when he retires. (Previous pick: Robinson; second round: Cam Thomas, DT, North Carolina)

31. Indianapolis Colts
Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers
The Colts need secondary help due to injuries and free agency. McCourty has been rising up draft boards since the Senior Bowl. (Previous pick: McCourty; second round: Jared Veldheer, OT, Hillsdale College)

32. New Orleans Saints
Everson Griffen, DE, USC
The Saints will be looking for a replacement for Charles Grant and a guy who can handle the run downs instead of Bobby McCray. (Previous pick: Griffen; second round: Toby Gerhart, RB, Standford)

48. Carolina Panthers (no first-round pick)
Lamarr Houston, DT, Texas
The Panthers lost a lot on the defensive line this year. They could look at Penn State LB Sean Lee or Georgia DT Geno Atkins.

http://www.nfl.com/draft/story?id=09000d5d817560ca&template=with-video-with-comments&confirm=true

[Southside Tirant]

This may help you out a little TTP77....


"How the Lions benefitted from the McNabb deal"

It happens sometimes. A third team that has no direct relation to a trade ends up benefitting from it in some strange tangent. And this most often occurs around draft time.

With the Redskins out of the quarterback market following the Donovan McNabb trade from the Eagles, they can turn their focus to an offensive tackle. The player many believe they want now is Oklahoma State OT Russell Okung.

Guess what? The Lions also have shown heavy interest in Okung and have appeared very serious about taking him over one of the draft's highly rated defensive tackles. Okung is the Lions' current choice in Nolan Nawrocki's most recent mock draft.

So if the Redskins want Okung, they might have to deal up to get him. And given that they seriously lack draft picks right now, owning only four total, including the No. 4 pick, the Lions might be able to get one of the Skins' 2011 picks. It almost would have to be the team's second-rounder that year in that case, because they traded a third- or fourth-round pick to acquire McNabb.

Detroit can play that coolly. They like Okung and they would be happy with either Gerald McCoy or Ndamukong Suh. They would love to trade down two spots and save a few bucks, too. They can stand pat and take any of these guys or deal down to the Redskins at four and still get one of them. It's what we call the catbird seat, especially when a team such as the Redskins — who have been known to take drastic measures to get their man — are involved.

And just for fun, here's a wild and interesting scenario: There were reports that the Redskins offered DT Albert Haynesworth for McNabb, but the Eagles said no. (Which is an interesting subplot in and of itself.) But would the Lions bite on a Haynesworth deal? Jim Schwartz sure knows what to do with Haynesworth, whom he coached up in Tennessee. Now, that contract might be a bit of an albatross for the Lions, but they could deal out of the top 10 perhaps and still have the impact defensive centerpiece they need to come out of this draft with.

Just a thought.

http://www.profootballweekly.com/blogs/2010/04/05/how-the-lions-benefitted-from-the-mcnabb-deal

[TTP77]

Ah okay. I didn't see what you were getting at with that.

Looking at last years draft the #2 pick got $12.4 mil per season and the #4 pick got $10 mil per season. That was an OT and a LB so not exactly the same thing to compare to. While you're overpaying for both of them you're doing it at $2.4 mil a year more just 2 picks higher. Now looking at the next OT taken (Andre Smith taken 6th) we can see he got $6.5 mil per season. Trading from the 2nd to the 4th spot usually has more to do with picking up an extra draft pick then it does with player salaries but once you get outside the top 5 picks the salaries drop off dramatically.

It is all a crap shoot either way and there will always be a few busts who get paid way too much money. That is as long as the players get their way. If the owners get their way things will change.

True, but if your OT is a success do you get better value in the long run? If my perception is right and they do generally play longer and not team hop as much? How many teams have a Mike Munchak as a coach who can turn 4th and 5th rounders into quality linemen? Anyway, seems an interesting question for a research project.

[TTP77]

Southside I read somewhere today that the Fins are really interested in Kindle. Don't know if it's smokescreen but he certainly fits their scheme better than ours IMO

[ZachLV27]

True, but if your OT is a success do you get better value in the long run? If my perception is right and they do generally play longer and not team hop as much? How many teams have a Mike Munchak as a coach who can turn 4th and 5th rounders into quality linemen? Anyway, seems an interesting question for a research project.

Hurry up and do that research and then post your info here. I need something to hold me over today. :P

Random off-topic rant: Can someone please tell me why MLB has an opening day and then gives most teams the next day off? This has never made sense to me and it annoys me. I'd love to be watching baseball right now.

[Sect309Fan]

Random off-topic rant: Can someone please tell me why MLB has an opening day and then gives most teams the next day off? This has never made sense to me and it annoys me. I'd love to be watching baseball right now.

It is strange, but it makes a little sense. Most baseball series are played Friday-Sunday and then either Mon-Wed or Tue-Thur. For some reason, MLB wants a lot of Thursday games in the opening week (I guess to keep the momentum going into the first weekend), so Tuesday becomes a sacrificial day.

[Old Oilers Fan]

Random off-topic rant: Can someone please tell me why MLB has an opening day and then gives most teams the next day off? This has never made sense to me and it annoys me. I'd love to be watching baseball right now.

First why isn't this question in the Baseball Thread? It is a good subject to talk about. My guess is encase the opener gets postpone they have that extra day for a opener for those who have opening day tickets.

[Southside Tirant]

Southside I read somewhere today that the Fins are really interested in Kindle. Don't know if it's smokescreen but he certainly fits their scheme better than ours IMO

Actually, it would make a ton of since for them to draft Kindle! They are alot like us in a way, They need to get pressure on Tom Brady (Like us getting to Manning)! And i agree with you that he fits there system more then ours! They wouldn't have to worry if he's a DE or LB! There 3 biggest needs are... NT, WR and Safety! But if they stick to the board and draft the "BPA" He falls in that cateragory! Which is what scares me the most about these mock drafts, All these experts are predicting all these teams to draft based on need, And if history has told us anything about our team, Is that we've drafted the BPA in past years even though our biggest need for those years were WR! But we'll see what happens.

[Southside Tirant]

The mock i posted earlier and this one seem to be the best i'v seen so far.


"Charles Davis Mock draft 1.0"

1. St. Louis Rams
Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma
Bradford had a tremendous pro day by all accounts. Dr. James Andrews has cleared his injured shoulder medically. Erstwhile, Rams starter Marc Bulger has asked for, and been granted his release. Frank and Joe Hardy solved many cases with fewer clues than those. (Previous pick: Bradford)

2. Detroit Lions
Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State
I'm sticking with the reasoning that the Lions will opt to protect franchise QB Matthew Stafford with this pick, but my radar continues to buzz that one of the elite defensive tackles will be the choice. If so, I'm guessing they'll take Ndamukong Suh. (Previous pick: Okung)

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma
A strong case can be made that Tennessee safety Eric Berry is the best fit here, but I just don't think the Bucs will be able to resist a defensive tackle, and McCoy still really fits. Don't be surprised to read Suh's name in this slot in the not too distant future. (Previous pick: McCoy

4. Washington Redskins
Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska
There should really be an offensive tackle listed here, but with Okung gone, new defensive coordinator Jim Haslett gives a very impassioned, and persuasive pitch for the most dominant defender in college football in 2009. (Previous pick: Suh)

5. Kansas City Chiefs
Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa
Offensive tackle or Berry? Two years ago, the offensive tackle would have been a no-brainer, but Berry's gifts, and especially his ability to cover, gives GM Scott Pioli reason to think outside the box. Remember, he took DE Tyson Jackson at No. 3 last year. (Previous pick: Bulaga)

6. Seattle Seahawks
Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma
This youngster is gaining momentum with each day. In some camps he is rated on par with Okung. (Previous pick: Williams)

7. Cleveland Browns
Eric Berry, S, Tennessee
I'm letting myself be convinced that the Browns will not take a quarterback this high. Berry is exactly what they need to continue rebuilding. (Previous pick: Jimmy Clausen)

8. Oakland Raiders
Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland
The Raiders grabbed a Terp last year in WR Darrius Heyward-Bey, and he will be joined by a much bigger Maryland player this year. This NFL Scouting Combine superstar heads to Oaktown. (Previous pick: Berry)

9. Buffalo Bills
C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson
Running back became even more of a need given Marshawn Lynch's unhappiness. If one of the top three offensive tackles is still available, though, young Mr. Spiller may be left in the starting blocks. (Previous pick: Spiller)

10. Jacksonville Jaguars
Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech
A pass rush is needed in Jacksonville. Aaron Kampman is happy to be in a Jaguars uniform, and no longer playing linebacker. The ACC's best defender from last year is a nice piece to add with Kampman.

11. Denver Broncos
Sergio Kindle, LB, Texas
Kindle is an explosive pass rusher, and more than one personnel director has told me that they like this Longhorn better than they liked former Texas star (and rookie Pro Bowler) Brian Orakpo. Still, would Josh McDaniels have some interest in developing a young QB, maybe one from Notre Dame? An inside linebacker makes sense, too. (Previous pick: Kindle)

12. Miami Dolphins
Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee
A strong final season in Knoxville really put this big man on the map. He would be a nice pick for GM Jeff Ireland, and football czar Bill Parcells. There are still some safeties on the board (Earl Thomas and Taylor Mays) that will merit discussion in South Florida. (Previous pick: Williams)

13. San Francisco 49ers
Joe Haden, CB, Florida
An all-around excellent player who cleared up concerns about his speed at his pro day. He also does a fine job of blitzing from the slot, too. (Previous pick: Haden)

14. Seattle Seahawks
Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame
The 'Hawks QB of the future, who's from the West Coast, hooks up with a west coast head coach (Pete Carroll) who knows him well from their college days. (Previous pick: Dez Bryant)

15. New York Giants
Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama
He's awfully skilled, will strike, and has the smarts and savvy to run an NFL defense. The Giants will be fortunate if he is still available at this pick. (Previous pick: McClain)

16. Tennessee Titans
Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida
His lack of Division I game experience scares some people, but his athletic gifts have teams dreaming of double digit sack seasons in the near future. (Previous pick: Pierre-Paul)

17. San Francisco 49ers
Mike Iupati, G, Idaho
An area of need, some see this wrecking ball as a potential left tackle, too. RB Frank Gore sees him helping to clear a path to another Pro Bowl. (Previous pick: Iupati)

18. Pittsburgh Steelers
Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State
Offensive line is still an area of need, and there are good players available with this pick. But, my quick recollection of why the Steelers missed out on the playoffs drew me back to the defense. This may very well be the best corner in the draft. (Previous pick: Wilson)

19. Atlanta Falcons
Brandon Graham, DE/OLB, Michigan
I have liked this non-stop pass rusher since I saw him play in the 2008 season, and in discussing him with a long-time observer of the league I am even more convinced that he's the type of player that the Falcons need and covet. (Previous pick: Graham)

20. Houston Texans
Patrick Robinson, CB, Florida State
I have been all over Houston's need for a consistent runner, but the loss of Dunta Robinson highlights the need for someone else to help slow down the Colts twice a year. (Previous pick: Ryan Mathews)

21. Cincinnati Bengals
Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma
He might have been a top-12 pick had he not gotten hurt and missed the 2009 season. I only see his knee improving, and his ability to flash his skills increasing in the near future. (Previous pick: Gresham)

22. New England Patriots
Jared Odrick, DT, Penn State
Versatile, can slide easily to the "5" technique in a base 3-4. He helps the Patriots rebuild their defensive line. (Previous pick: Sean Weatherspoon)

23. Green Bay Packers
Sean Weatherspoon, LB, Missouri
A guy that hollers a lot on the field, who would love to play inside linebacker and run the defense. His skill set is excellent for a team seeking an outside linebacker that can run and chase, and he could really help Pro Bowl rookie Clay Matthews. Offensive line is a need, too. (Previous pick: Robinson)

24. Philadelphia Eagles
Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida
The Eagles need a pass rusher opposite Trent Cole. They are counting on revving up this talented youngster's motor on a full-time basis. (Previous pick: Dunlap)

25. Baltimore Ravens
Earl Thomas, S, Texas
Ed Reed continues to be on top of his game, but while Thomas is prepping behind him, he can play in their nickel packages, and some corner, too. He is talented enough. (Previous pick: Odrick)

26. Arizona Cardinals
Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State
A steal of top-five talent for the high flying birds of the desert. Say thank you, Matt Leinart. (Previous pick:

27. Dallas Cowboys
Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers
With the release of Flozell Adams, this quickly became a need pick. Doug Free will get first crack at the left tackle job, but this could be a steal for Dallas if he lives up to his immense potential. The need for a safety exists, too. (Previous pick: Bruce Campbell)

28. San Diego Chargers
Terrence Cody, DT, Alabama
Stats will never be his calling card because it's hard to make tackles while always occupying two people. His teammates will be grateful, though. (Previous pick: Cody)

29. New York Jets
Demaryius Thomas, WR, Georgia Tech
Risk vs. Reward. Thomas is coming off an injury and comes from an option offense, which did not run a sophisticated passing game or routes. But, he has everything else, and the ability to learn quickly. (Previous pick: Thomas)

30. Minnesota Vikings
Taylor Mays, S, USC
Still seeking a spot to elevate this fine player. I keep hearing what he can't do, but I have observed plenty of things he can do. He can assist shoring up the back end of the Vikings' defense. (Previous pick: Mays)

31. Indianapolis Colts
Maurkice Pouncey, C, Florida
Seriously, can he last this long? If so, Bill Polian chortles and sends the pick in early. No need for the full 10 minutes to call Jeff Saturday's eventual replacement. Until then, he'll play guard on a high level. (Previous pick: Pouncey)

32. New Orleans Saints
Tim Tebow, QB, Florida
I predicted Senior Bowl week that someone will fall in love with him and find a way to draft him in the first round, and it's time for me to stand by that statement. And the roar of shock, awe, approval, disapproval will be long and sustained as the first round concludes with his name called. Sean Payton would love to "mad scientist" this prospect that has invited so many differing opinions. I say he's an NFL QB, especially under the tutelage of the team that possesses the Lombardi Trophy. (Previous pick: Everson Griffen)

http://www.nfl.com/draft/story?id=09000d5d8175fbd9&template=with-video-with-comments&confirm=true

[TTP77]

I hate it. I think I'll really cry if we draft JPP. Seriously.

[TTP77]

My personal fave...


Offensive Tackle: Ed Wang, Virginia Tech (3-5) -- Wang is getting a lot of NFL pre-draft interest for his size (6-5, 315) and raw athleticism. He had 35 career starts at VT, but he'll need some finishing work at the next level -- his team's offensive schemes allowed the former tight end to survive various technique issues that will hold him back in the NFL. He's also struggled with penalties, but with the right kind of zone-blocking coach, Wang could develop into a starter over time.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/blog/shutdown_corner

You know this guy is tough as ****. How could he not be with a name like Ed Wang? :D

[TTP77]

The flip side...

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/blog/shutdown_corner/post/The-Shutdown-Corner-All-Sleeper-Team-Defense?urn=nfl,232396

[TTP77]

Here's a video on Ed Wang. pretty neat story

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-player-interviews/09000d5d81754cc2/An-American-tale

[Southside Tirant]

Yea, i watched that yesterday! How can you not hope the guy gets drafted and does well.

[TTP77]

hmmm, i just posted in this forum and it disappeared. anyway, i'm starting to get nervous! :lol

[TTP77]

PK

http://espn.go.com/blog/afcsouth/post/_/id/10640/draft-watch-afc-south-8

I don't particularly agree with what he says about the Jags. I don't generally advocate a team drafting to its fan base but the Jags are in a bit of a predicament that other teams don't have. Sure they want to field a competitive team and you don't draft for one based on fan appeal. But they are losing money in an epic fashion. do they need a QB? yea probably. Is there a huge difference between Tim Tebow and the rest of the pack not named Bradford? I'm not sure there is really. It will be interesting to see what they do for sure since they don't have a second round pick. I still think they go defense in the first.

[TTP77]

I don't think he's the second best QB in the draft, but I hope he gets selected by a good team and does well. Hate the way the got treated at UT.

http://www.tennessean.com/article/20100407/SPORTS01/100407086/Ex-UT+QB+Crompton+improving+draft+status

[Southside Tirant]

Hey TTP77... When you get time, Will you post the new Mock Drafts from Kiper and Mcshay? Im sure there not much different, just a little curious thats all!

[Southside Tirant]

I don't think he's the second best QB in the draft, but I hope he gets selected by a good team and does well. Hate the way the got treated at UT.

http://www.tennessean.com/article/20100407/SPORTS01/100407086/Ex-UT+QB+Crompton+improving+draft+status

I was kind of hoping he'd stay under the radar. I really like him and J.Brown!! There's a few other's also, We should post a list of player's we hope to draft. I'm already working on one! So far i have the QB's, RB's, WR's and TE's i like, I just have to finish researching the rest within the next few days.

[TTP77]

Mel Kiper/Todd McShay Mock Draft
St. Louis Rams
Sam Bradford
QB, Oklahoma
1
Sam Bradford
QB, Oklahoma
Kiper: The Rams have passed on Matt Ryan and Mark Sanchez during the past two years, and they don't want to regret missing on another player with "franchise QB" potential. Bradford could have been No. 1 over Matthew Stafford last year, and has answered a lot of questions about his physical skills (and progress) over the past month. Concerns about his experience in the spread offense alone are real, however, and if the Rams feel intent on starting Bradford from day one, they could live to regret it.
McShay: The Rams have passed on potential franchise quarterbacks the past two seasons in favor of linemen, and we will be shocked if they do so again. Bradford has added bulk to his frame, passed medical exams on his surgically repaired throwing shoulder and had a strong showing at his pro day, so there should be no obstacles for the Rams. He comes from a wide-open offense and was generally well protected but we are confident he has the football intelligence and accuracy to develop into an upper-echelon starter a few years down the road.

Detroit Lions
Ndamukong Suh
DT, Nebraska
2
Ndamukong Suh
DT, Nebraska
Kiper: There are some in Detroit who want the team to trade down for one of the tackles in this draft. It's not a terrible idea -- protecting your young QB is hugely important. However, Detroit has made some moves to upgrade along the offensive line, and then there's the countering argument: the Lions' defense was so bad last year, it made the offense focus on the passing game and lose needed balance. A better defense will help the Detroit offense. And Suh makes them better immediately.
McShay: OT Russell Okung is a possibility because QB Matthew Stafford's long-term protection is important, but defensive tackle is also a need for the Lions and they're staring at the top two prospects in the 2010 class at this point. We give Oklahoma DT Gerald McCoy a slightly higher grade due to his pass-rushing skills but Suh is a better fit for a Lions defense that needs a dominant physical presence up front.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Gerald McCoy
DT, Oklahoma
3
Gerald McCoy
DT, Oklahoma
Kiper: As I've said before, it would be hard to pass up a potential Pro Bowl player and a guy whom many consider the best overall player in the draft at No. 3. McCoy isn't just effective against the run, he uses his quickness and strength to blow by interior linemen and disrupt the QB. Maybe the most complete talent in the draft, and that includes Suh.
McShay: The Buccaneers are getting back to their Tampa 2 defensive roots and McCoy, who is built in the Warren Sapp mold, is the ideal fit as a one-gap penetrating 3-technique.

Washington Redskins
Russell Okung
OT, Oklahoma State
4
Russell Okung
OT, Oklahoma State
Kiper: The Redskins have addressed their QB situation, now they can protect Donovan McNabb's blind side (and help one of the trio of backs McNabb figures to be handing off to). Okung may not have the extraordinary upside of a guy like Anthony Davis, but he's the most complete left tackle available, and is a low-risk pick for a team that can't afford to miss. Unless they trade down, the Skins don't pick again until No. 103.
McShay: Donovan McNabb is an immediate upgrade at quarterback so finding the replacement for retired LOT Chris Samuels is now the most glaring need. Okung is the safest, most complete tackle prospect this class has to offer and he should be ready to serve as McNabb's blindside protector as a rookie.

Kansas City Chiefs
Eric Berry
S, Tennessee
5
Bryan Bulaga
OT, Iowa
Kiper: Any question marks about Berry's physical skills were answered impressively during the testing phase, which is all he needed to maintain his standing as the premier safety of not just this draft, but as perhaps one of the best we've seen in a while. I can see the Chiefs being tempted by other players here, but Berry is a top talent and fills a need. I'll say it again: the Ed Reed comparisons are legit.
McShay: Berry is the best player remaining on the board but positional value trends say that spending top-five money on a safety doesn't make fiscal sense. Oklahoma's Trent Williams is a superior talent to Bulaga but we don't expect Scott Pioli & Co. to take a risk on a player whose commitment to the game is in question. Bulaga may top out as a very good starting right tackle but that's just fine opposite current LT Branden Albert.

Seattle Seahawks
Trent Williams
OT, Oklahoma
6
Eric Berry
S, Tennessee
Kiper: Williams is the most versatile player in the draft, a rare feat for an offensive lineman. Here's a guy who has played well at both tackle positions, and has even seen spot duty at center. A safe pick, because Williams can upgrade your offensive line in more than one place. Seattle has to improve its O-line with one of these picks, and Williams is more coveted each week.
McShay: This is a tough call between Berry and OT Williams. The Seahawks have significant need at both positions and offensive tackle carries more weight, but Seattle could pass on Williams for the same reasons the Chiefs did one pick earlier. Plus, Berry is clearly the top defensive back in the 2010 class and he could fill a glaring hole in the middle of the Seahawks' defense.

Cleveland Browns
Dez Bryant
WR, Oklahoma State
7
Dan Williams
DT, Tennessee
Kiper: I've talked to people around the league about Dez Bryant, and I can tell you the notion that there are concerns about Bryant's character is blown out of proportion. Here the Browns get the best WR in the draft, a threat they really need, and a player that, in a football environment, is a workhorse and a producer. I think K.C. will also be looking hard at Bryant at No. 5, but will ultimately pass and allow the Browns to get him.
McShay: This would be a frustrating scenario for the Browns, who should be hoping Berry falls to them at this slot. RB C.J. Spiller would be a possibility but don't count out Williams, who appears to be a reach but will garner plenty of attention over the next few picks because he's the only legitimate first-round nose tackle in this class. Finding a long-term replacement for current NT Shaun Rogers is high on the priority list, and Rogers' recent run-in with the law might only increase the urgency.

Oakland Raiders
Jimmy Clausen
QB, Notre Dame
8
Trent Williams
OT, Oklahoma
Kiper: Clausen's upcoming pro day is obviously huge, but I think he'll show he has all the physical tools to be a very good NFL passer. Bottom line, the Raiders have no answer at the QB position on their roster. I also know that money they owe to JaMarcus Russell would not keep them from drafting Clausen if they believe he's the better long-term option. If Clausen doesn't go here, he could fall into a no-man's-land a la Brady Quinn or Aaron Rodgers, where a team trades into the late teens or twenties to pick him. I have ideas there, but we're strictly working within the current pick order.
McShay: Williams might have been overshadowed by OT Bruce Campbell at this year's scouting combine, but Williams certainly put up numbers that owner Al Davis can put his stamp on. As an added bonus, Williams is actually capable of developing into a good starting left tackle in the NFL.

Buffalo Bills
Bryan Bulaga
OT, Iowa
9
Anthony Davis
OT, Rutgers
Kiper: The Bills need to keep whoever's throwing the ball upright, and Bulaga has the chance to be a good pass-protector at this level. I think the Bills would be thrilled to see Trent Williams available here, but in Bulaga, they have a chance to get a player at No. 9 that could go even higher. I think they simply take the best tackle on the board here.
McShay: QB Jimmy Clausen is certainly in consideration but the Bills are in no position to start a rookie quarterback behind their existing offensive line. Davis needs to be motivated and his weight must be monitored, but we would argue he's the best pure pass-blocker in the 2010 crop.

Jacksonville Jaguars
C.J. Spiller
RB, Clemson
10
Earl Thomas
S, Texas
Kiper: Before they made moves to strengthen an anemic pass rush, this looked like a shoo-in for a Derrick Morgan or Jason Pierre-Paul -- and that could still happen -- but I've heard that the staff in Jacksonville feels they truly missed the presence of Fred Taylor, and want a young home run threat to augment the offense. In their division, the Jags need to score, and based on who I've talked to, Spiller isn't an outside shot here. He really is a player they can use.
McShay: This pick could come down to a choice between Thomas and Alabama ILB Rolando McClain. The Jaguars have been burned before by drafting a safety in the first round (Reggie Nelson), but Thomas is simply a better football player. The free safety is mentally and physically prepared to make an immediate impact as a versatile ball hawk in the Jaguars' secondary.

Denver Broncos (from Chicago)
Earl Thomas
S, Texas
11
Rolando McClain
ILB, Alabama
Kiper: There are scouts who will tell you Thomas is the best pure, instinctive football player in the whole draft. He has big-time aptitude. All that aside, he also fills a developing need for Denver, because Brian Dawkins isn't getting any younger. We've seen safeties rise late -- Donte Whitner to Buffalo, LaRon Landry to Washington -- in recent years, and Thomas fits nicely here.
McShay: McClain is the only true inside linebacker with a first-round grade and that drives up his value. This might seem a bit early to take him, but McClain will be ready to start from day one and would be a nice centerpiece as the Broncos continue the youth movement in their fairly new 3-4 defensive scheme.

Miami Dolphins
Dan Williams
DT, Tennessee
12
Derrick Morgan
DE, Georgia Tech
Kiper: Getting Karlos Dansby minimizes a need for a player like Rolando McClain here, and the Dolphins are thin up front, and also facing suspensions (Jason Ferguson). I liked Williams here before, and I still do. A great leverage player, he can occupy blockers and disrupt for the Fins.
McShay: We would like to see Morgan in a 4-3 front, but Miami's 3-4 scheme features bigger bodies up front and Morgan would provide the pass-rush ability and toughness against the run a depleted Miami front seven desperately needs.

San Francisco 49ers
Joe Haden
CB, Florida
13
Sergio Kindle
DE/OLB, Texas
Kiper: Questions have been raised about Haden's speed during the workout process, but a solid pro day helped alleviate concerns. Haden could go higher, because he's the CB most likely to step in immediately with both superior cover skills and the physicality to play in every situation. He's a natural fit for San Fran, which needs corner help. Getting the college game's top CB here is a great get most years.
McShay: The 49ers' No. 1 priority is to find a right tackle to start opposite LT Joe Staley, but in this scenario the top four tackles are off the board. Manny Lawson came on last year and Kindle is a perfect fit as a pass-rusher on the other side of the line. Kindle would beef up the pass defense and is worth the pick here even though he does not fill a top need.

Seattle Seahawks (from Denver)
Derrick Morgan
DE, Georgia Tech
14
C.J. Spiller
RB, Clemson
Kiper: Seattle needs a pass-rusher on the edge of a 4-3 scheme, and Morgan is an ideal addition. He's got the pass-rushing skills to be a disruptive force, and the strength to hold up well in the run game. No player in college displayed more versatility from this position over the past season. If the Hawks add a top DE and OT in Round 1, they'll be, quite simply, a better football team.
McShay: The Seahawks would bypass arguably their biggest need (OT) in this first-round scenario, but the good news is they would end up with two of the top seven players in this draft. Spiller is the most dynamic skill player on the board and would instantly upgrade the attack with his versatility in the running and passing games, and he can also contribute in the return game.

New York Giants
Rolando McClain
ILB, Alabama
15
Mike Iupati
G, Idaho
Kiper: McClain is the top inside linebacker in the draft, and the Giants should be happy to grab him at No. 15. A fiery leader, instinctive and a great tackler, McClain's diagnostic skills point to great coaching. I can also see the Giants tempted if a player like Thomas is available here.
McShay: McClain is a common projection here given the departure of Antonio Pierce but with McClain off the board look for the Giants to go with Iupati. They need to reestablish a physical tone on offense and drafting a dominant interior lineman would be a good step in that direction.

Tennessee Titans
Jason Pierre-Paul
DE, South Florida
16
Jason Pierre-Paul
DE, South Florida
Kiper: Pierre-Paul fits exactly what the Titans need, and would be a great value here. (I can see Jacksonville grabbing him at No. 10.) Even as a raw talent, Pierre-Paul can be productive based on a set of physical skills that remind scouts of Mario Williams or Jevon Kearse. A potential future sack machine on the edge of Tennessee's 4-3, I think Jeff Fisher and the Titans jump at the chance to mold this kind of talent.
McShay: Tennessee has seen its fair share of talented defensive linemen come and go under head coach Jeff Fisher, and while Pierre-Paul has a chance to become the next player on the list he is also a big-time risk. On one hand he is arguably the most naturally gifted defender on the board, but on the other hand there are concerns about his mental capacity and inexperience. However, Pierre-Paul is worth the risk at this point in the first round.

[TTP77]

San Francisco 49ers (from Carolina)
Anthony Davis
OT, Rutgers
17
Jimmy Clausen
QB, Notre Dame
Kiper: Davis has the upside of a Pro Bowl player at left tackle, which is where he lined up in Piscataway, but the Niners could move him to the right side to fill that void. Davis must still develop, but he has all requisite physical skills: great feet, long arms, prototype size. San Fran will make a pick to help the O-line in one of its two teen spots, and Davis is a smart pick here.
McShay: There is a bigger need at offensive tackle but the remaining players at that position would be a reach here. We have the Niners passing on Clausen once and we don't give him a first-round grade but this seems like a reasonable spot for the No. 2 quarterback on the board. However, if Clausen gets past this spot it's hard to find another team in the first round with a primary or secondary quarterback need and he could be headed for a Brady Quinn-like free fall.

Pittsburgh Steelers
Maurkice Pouncey
C/G, Florida
18
Maurkice Pouncey
C/G, Florida
Kiper: Pittsburgh has to address the interior along the offensive line, and Pouncey has emerged as the best center-guard combo available. The Steelers need an interior force that can help them get back to running the football effectively between the tackles, and Pouncey is the player that can do that.
McShay: This seems like a perfect marriage. The Steelers want to get back to a physical, run-oriented approach and Pouncey has the versatility to play center or guard and work into the lineup sooner rather than later.

Atlanta Falcons
Brandon Graham
DE, Michigan
19
Brandon Graham
DE, Michigan
Kiper: At 270 pounds, Graham has the size to be an every-down defensive end in this league. He's not just an OLB prospect. He uses great leverage to hold up against the run, and as the NCAA leader in TFL, he's a terror for opposing QBs. Think of Dwight Freeney or Robert Mathis, a disruptive edge player who isn't at all meek against the run.
McShay: We believe Graham is a better fit as a 3-4 outside linebacker, but his lack of height (6-foot-1⅜) puts some restriction on which 3-4 schemes he fits in. The Falcons have been searching for a pass-rusher for the past couple of years and Graham can play either the right or left side in a rotation with John Abraham, who is Atlanta's only legitimate pass-rusher at this point.

Houston Texans
Kyle Wilson
CB, Boise State
20
Joe Haden
CB, Florida
Kiper: I'm sticking with Wilson here. We know Atlanta's free-agent addition of Dunta Robinson creates a void the Texans must fill, and Wilson has a refined game and is also very strong for the position. He can be a value in the return game, as well.
McShay: The Texans continue to search for playmakers on defense and with the loss of Robinson they could use a player like Haden, who has dropped a bit because of a lack of overall polish but is the kind of natural athlete who can step in and make the big plays Houston's defense has lacked.

Cincinnati Bengals
Jermaine Gresham
TE, Oklahoma
21
Dez Bryant
WR, Oklahoma State
Kiper: It's no help to a team like Baltimore (where I had Gresham in the last mock) that the stock of the best TE in the draft is back up. Gresham has proven to scouts that he's physically solid after a lost season, and will be a perfect target for Carson Palmer in what should be an improved passing game. Gresham is the total package.
McShay: Bryant is a top-10 talent but character concerns will drop him down the board, and his free fall should end here. The Bengals have shown no regard for character concerns so don't be surprised to see them ignore the baggage Bryant carries with him. There is a lot of talk about Oklahoma TE Jermaine Gresham here, but the Cincinnati receiving corps has been depleted this offseason and there is no better playmaker available for QB Carson Palmer.

New England Patriots
Sergio Kindle
DE/OLB, Texas
22
Everson Griffen
DE, USC
Kiper: New England needs help at OLB, and Kindle is the best stack-and-shed outside 'backer in this class. And he has better versatility than some realize. He's just a decent-to-good pass-rusher, but any Patriots fan realizes that Bill Belichick doesn't just want a player for one specific role. Versatility and ranginess are important, and Kindle fits the profile.
McShay: Kindle would be a perfect fit if he fell this far, but the Patriots' primary needs on defense are pass-rush ability and size to defend the run and Griffen offers plenty in both of those areas.

Green Bay Packers
Mike Iupati
G, Idaho
23
Charles Brown
OT, USC
Kiper: Iupati is an absolute force at the guard position and could be the Steve Hutchinson of this draft. He should improve the run game immediately and has the physical skills and footwork to develop as a pass-protector. There's reason to think he could become a tackle, but he's an upgrade at guard from day one.
McShay: The Packers are aging along the offensive line and their top priority is to protect emerging star QB Aaron Rodgers. Some may think Brown is a reach here but there will be a run on offensive tackles and we believe he is solid enough as both a run- and pass-blocker to warrant late-first-round consideration. Brown is also a better player than current NFL tackles Duane Brown and Sam Baker, who went in similar spots in 2008.

Philadelphia Eagles
Kareem Jackson
CB, Alabama
24
Kyle Wilson
CB, Boise State
Kiper: There are still some injury question marks around Ellis Hobbs, and with the addition of the 37th pick in the McNabb trade, the Eagles can strengthen their CB group and then add a safety value such as Nate Allen or Major Wright in Round 2 and really upgrade the secondary. Jackson is fluid and displays exceptional anticipation.
McShay: OLB Sean Weatherspoon and S Taylor Mays are possibilities here but Wilson is our highest-rated remaining player and his skills as a press cover corner would fit well on an Eagles defense that recently traded away Sheldon Brown.

Baltimore Ravens
Demaryius Thomas
WR, Georgia Tech
25
Demaryius Thomas
WR Georgia Tech
Kiper: The Ravens have made moves to add help for Joe Flacco, but drafting a young WR that can grow with Flacco is still an important consideration. Thomas is a big, physical home run threat, and even this high, may have been undervalued because he was stuck in a running system at Tech. He's the perfect downfield target for Flacco's big arm, a guy who can make plays even when the defense knows it's coming.
McShay: Baltimore has a reputation for cashing in on the best available player and this is another opportunity to do so. Thomas would be a steal here given his size/speed combination and give QB Joe Flacco another dangerous weapon to go with offseason acquisitions Anquan Boldin and Donte' Stallworth.

Arizona Cardinals
Sean Weatherspoon
OLB, Missouri
26
Jermaine Gresham
TE, Oklahoma
Kiper: Before you say "But Arizona needs an inside linebacker" remember that Karlos Dansby was also an OLB at Auburn before he became a star for the Cardinals on the inside. That's who Weatherspoon can replace from day one in Arizona's 3-4. Weatherspoon is solid versus the run or the pass, and is a tackling machine. A natural fit here.
McShay: The Cardinals have seen a great deal of turnover on their roster and have bigger needs (pass-rusher, OT) than tight end, but there is not an available player who compares to Gresham in terms of natural talent. He would provide a nice security blanket for an inexperienced quarterback like Matt Leinart.

Dallas Cowboys
Charles Brown
OT, USC
27
Taylor Mays
S, USC
Kiper: Dallas has made it clear that it plans to address the left tackle position, and Brown is a natural fit here. Remember that Brown should develop, as he's a former TE with good feet and improving skills. I see him backing up Doug Free to start his Cowboys career, before stepping in and taking over. Not an exciting pick, but a smart one.
McShay: The Cowboys would love to see Brown fall this far but he is off the board and Campbell would be a reach. You could make comparisons between Mays and former Cowboys safeties Roy L. Williams and Ken Hamlin, both of whom struggled against the pass, but Mays has better closing burst and range in coverage despite being somewhat inconsistent.

San Diego Chargers
Ryan Mathews
RB, Fresno State
28
Terrence Cody
DT, Alabama
Kiper: Mathews would just be the prototype big, physical, between-the-tackles back to complement Darren Sproles, but he's more than that. Mathews has shown he's capable of consistent sub-4.5 40 times and is thus a physical kind of home run threat. He didn't display great hands in Fresno, but that area of his game should improve with reps. A good back at a need position.
McShay: This would go down as a classic example of a team reaching to fill a need with the kind of player who is hard to find. Only a handful of defensive tackles are ideal fits to play the nose in a 3-4, and while Cody comes with huge red flags because of his weight issues it would not shock us to see the Chargers pull the trigger on a guy they feel could eventually replace Jamal Williams in the middle of the defensive front.

New York Jets
Everson Griffen
DE, USC
29
Jared Odrick
DE, Penn State
Kiper: Think about what Rex Ryan has done with college DEs in the 3-4. Griffen compares well to players like Adalius Thomas and Terrell Suggs, guys who were sack machines playing with a hand on the ground in college but had the athleticism to perform in the Ryan system. Griffen is a fantastic athlete who (I've said) will be a better pro than a college player. He could be a steal this late, and the latest Ryan success story.
McShay: The Jets are aging a bit along the defensive front and Odrick would be a nice addition given his quick first step. He could work in a rotation early in his career before eventually taking over as a full-time starter, and with his relentless style Odrick has "Rex Ryan" written all over him.

Minnesota Vikings
Taylor Mays
S, USC
30
Kareem Jackson
CB, Alabama
Kiper: Cornerback is a bigger need here, but Mays is an appealing option as well, the best size-speed combination in the draft, and a player who could benefit from a new system after playing a deep center field for the Trojans last year. He also has great character and the smarts to develop his game. The physicality is there, and Mays can be better.
McShay: Jackson is one of the most underrated prospects in this draft. Minnesota does a great job taking advantage of players who slide down the board, and while cornerback is a secondary need Jackson could contribute as a sub-package corner while developing into an eventual replacement for the aging Antoine Winfield.

Indianapolis Colts
Jared Odrick
DT, Penn State
31
Jerry Hughes
DE/OLB, TCU
Kiper: The Colts are very, very average along the interior of the defensive line, and Odrick is a player versatile enough to be a disruptive, pass-rushing threat in a 4-3 or an anchor in a 3-4. He has a great motor that would fit in well to the inside of players like Mathis and Freeney. A great get this late for Indy if he's around.
McShay: There is not an available offensive tackle who would fill a need here, and Hughes seems to be perfect fit for the Colts' defense. His speed and relentlessness off the edge is exactly what Bill Polian and the coaching staff are looking for to complement Freeney and Mathis.

New Orleans Saints
Jerry Hughes
DE/OLB, TCU
32
Sean Weatherspoon
OLB, Missouri
Kiper: Hughes doesn't have great size, but he has the skills to be either a 3-4 OLB -- and thus could have his name called by New England, Arizona or a couple of others -- or he could be a fantastic pass-rusher in the mold of a Dwight Freeney. This is a guy that flat out knew how to get to QBs at the college level, regardless of what was in his path.
McShay: This is a perfect fit. The Saints lost Scott Fujita to free agency and Weatherspoon brings the same kind of leadership while providing an overall talent upgrade. Weatherspoon is a very good value at this point.

[Southside Tirant]

Thank you TTP77! I agree with you, I don't like the JPP pick! I just don't like the potential bust element that surrounds him. I will say, I watched a few South Florida games this year because there was hype about George Selvie and a few other player's i wanted to check out, And JPP just stood out from the rest! I remember saying wow... He's got talent.

I'm pulling for us to get D.Morgan or S.Kindle, If they are gone I'd prefer us going with a different position like- CB-K.Wilson or even DB-Earl Thomas if he's available (which i doubt). Or just trade back. I just think having a player like JPP isn't going to give us an immediate pass rush, We have plenty of projects were trying to groom right now. It just isn't logical to draft a player that high to have to wait to develop. Does that make any sense to you?

[TTP77]

yep, makes perfect sense to me. I don't think Kiper or McShay have ever successfully picked our draft pick so we should be fine. ;)

I like Thomas too but I prefer him as a CB than a safety. So we'd have to change his position and that causes me some concern too. Which is why I like Morgan so much. I think he could start from day 1. I think Kindle will go to a 3-4 team. Guys who can play in that system are a premium.

[Southside Tirant]

yep, makes perfect sense to me. I don't think Kiper or McShay have ever successfully picked our draft pick so we should be fine. ;)

I like Thomas too but I prefer him as a CB than a safety. So we'd have to change his position and that causes me some concern too. Which is why I like Morgan so much. I think he could start from day 1. I think Kindle will go to a 3-4 team. Guys who can play in that system are a premium.

I have a hard time thinking Kindle will be a better DE then LB in a 4-3, But people are saying he looks better then B.Orakpo did last year so I'm probably wrong! I agree he's better off going to a 3-4 team, But i do think he can play in either 3-4 or 4-3! When i see how much production Orakpo gave Washington last year, i just can't help but salivate, lol.

And i also agree with the notion E.Thomas will be a better CB then Safety, I definitely don't see him playing SS (His natural position)! He reminds me of Eric Berry in terms of him being versatile. I think he can come in from day-1 and contribute! And more then anything is what i want from our 1st round pick!

[TTP77]

LOL @ Schwartz answering my question from a few days ago...


Lions coach Jim Schwartz uses a theory about drafting defensive tackles called the ‘Planet Theory’.
What is the planet theory you ask? According to Schwartz, it’s "big, giant men that run fast? That are strong enough to play the run and athletic enough to play the pass? ... There's not many people like that walking the planet." Since there is a scarcity of these types of individuals, they justify such a high pick. Whatever theory they use, expect Nebraska's DT Ndamukong Suh off the board at number two this year.

Rotoworld

EDIT: Holy Cow!!!


Posted by Michael David Smith on April 11, 2010 8:33 AM ET
The NFL has tests in place to see how fast a draft prospect can run, how high or far he can jump, and how much weight he can lift. But what about how hard a prospect can hit?

The folks at ESPN's Sport Science have such a test, in which players run as fast as they can into a crash-test dummy. And they recently put Nebraska defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh through the paces.

The result? Suh hit the crash test dummy with more than 3,200 pounds of force. According to Sport Science, that means he hits harder than Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis and Jets defensive tackle Kris Jenkins, both of whom have gone through the Sport Science test.

I'm not sure how much this test really means. But I am sure it would be fun to see the NFL add it to the scouting combine.

PFT

Yea ok so I do get the whole Big Man Walking philosophy. I don't really have much issue with the whole "Suh is a rare talent at DT so you take him if you got him" argument. That works for me. But I don't get the "it's ok to draft an LT at the 4 spot but not the 2." Also, I certainly hope and believe that Schwatrz realizes there may be a "planet" chasing his new hopefully franchise QB and addresses that position with a truly skilled guy. I'm not sure who their Oline coach is but I'm certain he's no Mike Munchak.

[TTP77]

Also, the G-Men may take JPP in front of us...yay?

http://www.northjersey.com/sports/pro_sports/football/giants/90556564__Freak_II___in_Giants__picture.html

[TTP77]

I was talking earlier in this thread about how horrible the Bucs Oline was last year and this article just came out today from ProFootballFocus


No. 30 -- Tampa Bay Buccaneers It would be easy to blame the rookie quarterback considering the surprisingly poor year the Bucs had in pass protection, but Josh Freeman (and Byron Leftwich and Josh Johnson) actually did a remarkable job of saving further embarrassment by ranking third in the ability to stop pressure from becoming sacks. The true issue was the sheer amount of pressure they were under, and that was essentially down to the offensive line. The real disappointment was the yo-yo play of the tackles, Jeremy Trueblood and Donald Penn, who (in a fair world) should at least have been Pro Bowl alternates in 2008. Neither came close to this level of performance last year and Trueblood in particular was awful, especially as the season wore on. We're not sure Cameron Wake even knew he was there, as in Week 10 alone he gave up a sack and 10 hurries.

Equally frustrating for Buc fans must be the play of Jeff Faine. When he was brought in as a unrestricted free agent from the Saints in '08 it looked like a great move, but he had a so-so first year in red and pewter. He actually regressed further in '09, though it should be noted that injuries may have played a big part in that. If there is any positive to be taken from the mess Tampa Bay made of pass protection it was in the way the coaches didn't just do things just for the sake of it. They knew both their receiving TEs (Jerramy Stevens and Kellen Winslow) couldn't block, and therefore didn't bother leaving them on the line to provide an executive-service corridor straight to the QB. In fact, in spite of this low ranking, they left in the 12th-fewest blockers of any team.

Jags finished 31. This part of the series only went to #23

[TTP77]

I really like this guy but I don't think we've even looked at him. Maybe we think he translates more to a 3-4 system. IDK


With the Cleveland Browns and the Baltimore Ravens' defensive line coaches looking on, Arkansas State defensive end Alex Carrington made a solid showing at his Pro Day workout.

According to NFL.com, the 6-foot-5, 280-pounder ran a 4.93 with the wind and 4.97 against the wind in the 40-yard dash.

He also posted a 33-inch vertical leap, a 10-2 broad jump, a 4.81 in the short shuttle and a 7.64 in the three-cone drill.

At the NFL scouting combine, Carrington bench pressed 225 pounds 26 times.

Carrington reportedly excelled in drills.

A former Sunbelt Conference Defensive Player of the Year, Carrington recorded 21 1/2 career sacks. That included nine sacks last season.

For his career, the four-year starter posted 40 tackles for losses.

He's projected as a second round or third round target by draft analysts.

We're told that Carrington has drawn interest from the New England Patriots.

NFP

[Southside Tirant]

I really like this guy but I don't think we've even looked at him. Maybe we think he translates more to a 3-4 system. IDK



NFP

It's usually the one's you show no interest in that you have a lot of interest in. I like it, I'm still researching player's, Haven't got to him yet.

[TTP77]

Interesting article on Jimmy Clausen

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/blog/shutdown_corner/post/Does-Jimmy-Clausen-really-have-a-schematic-advan?urn=nfl,233316

309 would love this article. A statistical analysis of the draft....:)

http://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=697121

[TTP77]

I don't know who this is but it was posted on titansradio. article on McCluster

http://www.titansradio.com/Article.asp?id=1763487&spid=27572

I'm very much warming to this guy

[TTP77]

Interesting...


A spotty history of drafting tackles early in the draft should have the Lions at least a little concerned. Only four defensive tackles have been drafted in the top 10 over the past six years, and none has gone to a Pro Bowl. If the Lions take Ndamukong Suh or Gerald McCoy with the No. 2 pick, either player would become the highest-drafted DT since Oakland picked Darrell Russell second in '97. Russell made two Pro Bowls before his career was plagued by substance abuse and he was done in Oakland after five seasons. The last defensive tackle drafted No. 1? That's former Lion Dan Wilkinson. Cincinnati gave Big Daddy big bucks in 1994. How'd it turn out? Google his name, and the most common search phrase that pops up is "Dan Wilkinson bust." Maybe it should be "buyer beware." Numbers don't lie. Neither does history. Put the two together and they don't add up to an encouraging draft-day scenario for the Lions.

Detroit Free Press

[TTP77]

From Peter King's MMQB


Stat of the Week

You think it's tough to pick a quarterback out of college football who will succeed in the NFL? I say it's harder to pick a pass-rusher. And when I talk to coaches and personnel people around the league, it's maddening to them to try to figure out if Derrick Morgan or Jason Pierre-Paul -- or maybe Sergio Kindle, if he goes to a 4-3 team and plays end -- will be productive rushing the quarterback.

A look at the nine defensive ends picked in the first two rounds of the 2009 draft shows that only one rushed the passer at a big-league level as a rookie. That was Brian Orakpo, the 13th overall pick, by Washington. He had 11 sacks and was getting some double-teams by the end of the season. Here are the other eight college defensive ends (one exception -- Connor Barwin was a jack-of-all-trades at Cincinnati) and how they fared rushing the passer as rookies:
Defensive Proficiency For 2009 Draft Picks
Player Team '09 Overall Pick Games Sacks
*Tyson Jackson Chiefs 3 16 0
Aaron Maybin Bills 11 16 0
Larry English Chargers 16 16 2
Robert Ayers Broncos 18 15 0
Everette Brown Panthers 43 15 2.5
Connor Barwin Texans 46 16 4.5
Paul Kruger Ravens 57 9 0
**Cody Brown Cardinals -- -- --
-- -- -- Total: 103 9
* Jackson, a 3-4 defensive end, is not expected to be a pass-rushing end in the Chiefs' scheme. Most 3-4 ends are asked to be run-stuffers and a player who clears the way for outside linebackers to make plays.
** Spent season on IR with a bad wrist

Admittedly, this is no exact science. But the Bills and Broncos didn't draft Maybin and Ayers to see them take the field 31 times and never sack the passer.

[TTP77]

Found this on titanscentral. Gosselin mock. I hate it :lol

http://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/2010/apr/10/bc-fbn-nfl-mockdraftda-_-sports/?sports&nfl&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=pingfm

Also, I'll be shocked if the Browns take Clausen.

[TTP77]

Good article out of Detroit about the Lions and drafting a DT in the top 5....

http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2010/04/lions_coach_jim_schwartz_says.html

[TTP77]

NFP's latest super 30....

http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/The-NFP-Super-30-5326.html

[TTP77]

Found this on PK's blog. Article on drafting Olinemen in the 1st round...

http://blogs.chron.com/fantasyfootball/2010/04/nfl_teams_might_change_their_o.html

[TTP77]

Steelers are kicking the tires on Carrington and Hughes. Looks like 3-4 teams are eyeing both guys...

http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Steelers-meet-with-Lee-Hughes-to-complete-predraft-visits.html

[TTP77]

http://blogs.tennessean.com/titans/2010/04/13/de-morgan-scheduled-to-visit-titans/

[TTP77]

JoeFortenbaugh

With Brandon Marshall upgrading the WR position in Miami, look for the Fish to target DT Dan Williams (Tennessee) in the draft.

I'ma have to agree. I need to redo my mock draft lol

[TTP77]

The fact that the New England Patriots want to work out Ole Miss running back/wide receiver Dexter McCluster shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone.

The Pats have had four different running backs carry the ball at least 60 times in each of the past two seasons. Head coach Bill Belichick likes to use multiple running backs in a wide variety of offensive sets in an effort to keep opposing defenses off balance.

And McCluster could possibly be the next man to get involved in that rotation.

Per Albert Breer of the Boston Globe, the Patriots are sending a contingent down to McCluster’s hometown of Largo, Fla. on Wednesday to work out the former Rebel. The interesting thing to note here is that this is now the second time the Pats have checked out McCluster.

The 5’9”, 172-pound offensive weapon averaged 6.5 yards per carry on his way to 1,169 yards and eight scores for Ole Miss in 2009. One of the SEC’s most lethal dual-threat backs over the past two years, McCluster caught 88 passes for 1,145 yards and four touchdowns from 2008-2009.

We got a good look at the Mississippi running back during Senior Bowl week and were very impressed. South Team linebackers had no chance to cover McCluster when he came out of the backfield during 1 v. 1 passing drills. When the 21-year-old lined up on the outside against the South Team cornerbacks, he demonstrated the ability to get vertical on them on a consistent basis.

New England is currently sitting on three second-round draft picks (44, 47, 53 overall), which is right in the range of where McCluster is projected to go.

[TTP77]

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/04/14/belichick-plenty-of-calls-about-second-round-picks/

so are we talking to them about getting ours back? :lol

[Southside Tirant]

I'm sure you'll like this one TTP77! I know i do.


"Matt McGuire's 2010 NFL Mock Draft"

St. Louis Rams: Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma
If the Rams want to take a chance on Sam Bradford at No. 1 over Jimmy Clausen, then be my guest. This is certainly a better pick than Ndamukong Suh because at least it's a quarterback.

I've been waiting for Clausen to gain some momentum in the media, but it just hasn't happened, and it doesn't look it will with Adam Schefter recently saying that he "guarantees" Bradford will be the No. 1 pick in the 2010 NFL Draft.

I've certainly never completely ruled this pick out - I have just doubted this because Bradford has so many question marks regarding college scheme, durability and arm strength. If the NFL believes Bradford is the top quarterback in this class, then so be it. But I'm standing my ground on Clausen being the best quarterback in the 2010 NFL Draft by a mile.


Detroit Lions: Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska
I've flip flopped here again with the Lions. Ultimately, I think they should draft Russell Okung and it makes a lot of sense for them to do so, but I think they are enamored enough with Jeff Backus to take the best player on the board for their football team. This pick could very well be Gerald McCoy or Okung, but the reality is nobody knows what the Lions are going to do at this point and Suh seems like the most likely candidate for this pick.


Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma
The Buccaneers aren't going to be able to get out of this pick now that Cleveland and Seattle feel like they are set at the quarterback position, which means this pick can only be Gerald McCoy. If the Buccaneers don't draft one of the defensive tackles here I would be absolutely shocked.


Washington Redskins: Russell Okung, T, Oklahoma State
This is a no-brainer with the recent trade of Donovan McNabb. You can say that the people who already had Okung here were right, but I disagree. Mike Shanahan was never going to be sold on Jason Campbell - a quarterback whom he had no loyalty toward. They traded their second-round pick for a solid price, but is also by no means a steal.

I also thinks this really helps them against Philadelphia because it might hurt the Eagles. Had McNabb been traded to another team, then it's a lot tougher to beat the Eagles. I think McNabb's greatest asset is his vast knowledge of the Eagles offense. He becomes an extension of the coaching staff in game planning and scheming against Andy Reid; it honestly wouldn't shock me if the Redskins swept the Eagles next year. They take the best left tackle in the draft to really help their offensive line, and if Devin Thomas can develop this season, Shanahan works some magic, and Haynesworth comes back to life - watch out NFC East.

I will say here I think Clausen is the better long-term solution because McNabb is a bit over-the-hill, but Okung really does help this offensive line and if you can get three good years out of McNabb there is nothing to criticize.

Kansas City Chiefs: Bryan Bulaga, T, Iowa
The Chiefs have got to take a left tackle here. I keep pounding this point, but for some reason people still think Eric Berry is a possibility. If you pass up on Aaron Curry, a better prospect than Tyson Jackson, just because he is an inside linebacker, then you aren't drafting a safety since safety has just slightly more positional value than inside linebacker. However, I'm not criticizing what the Chiefs are doing. Granted, I would never have traded for Matt Cassel and instead selected Mark Sanchez at No. 3 overall last year, but once you hitch your wagon to Cassel you have to protect your investment. Solidifying the left tackle position is a very smart move. The question is whether this is Bulaga or Trent Williams. I'm banking, as many are, on the Kirk Ferentz-Scott Pioli connection.


Seattle Seahawks: Trent Williams, T, Oklahoma
In my last mock I mentioned that I was 50-50 on Trent Williams or Eric Berry being the pick here. A week later, it seems like Seattle is leaning toward taking one of the big three tackles left in the Draft (Okung, Bulaga, Williams). Williams certainly fills the left tackle position, but if he struggled playing left tackle in college, I'm just not sure how he is going to hold up against NFL pass rushers. He's highly inconsistent and with his athletic ability he should have been far more dominant on tape than he was.

I think if the Seahawks take Williams over Berry they will live to regret it. Eric Berry could be an All-Pro, and you shouldn't pass up on these types of players.

Pick Change; previously Eric Berry, S


Cleveland Browns: Eric Berry, S, Tennessee , S, Tennessee
The Browns prayed to the draft gods, and their prayers were answered. If Berry was gone at this pick they would be in quite a predicament that they likely can't get out of since the No. 7 overall pick isn't very tradable. Berry gives this team much needed leadership and playmaking that they lack on either side of the football. He has elite intangibles and his competitiveness is extremely underrated. If Berry isn't one of the two or three best safeties in the league in four years, I'll be disappointed in him.

Pick Change; previously Jason Pierre-Paul, DE/OLB


Oakland Raiders: Bruce Campbell, T, Maryland
Like I have been telling you for the past two months: The Oakland Raiders will draft Campbell. After the Combine, everybody is now on the Campbell-to-Rayduhs bandwagon after he cracked a 4.78 unofficial 40, 32-inch vertical jump, and 34 bench press reps at 6-6 and 313 pounds.

Some speculate this pick will be USC safety Taylor Mays after he had a 40 time of around 4.30, but they selected Michael Mitchell, also a strong safety, in the second round the previous season, while Michael Huff played quite well at free sfaety. Al Davis isn't going to give up on JaMarcus Russell just yet and he wants to add a left tackle to man his blind side.

Buffalo Bills: Dan Williams, NT, Tennessee
A couple sources from Indianapolis told me Rutgers tackle Anthony Davis performed very poorly in interviews, and after serious concerns with his work ethic and conditioning in the past added to a highly unimpressive Combine where he looked sloppy and nearly ran a 5.40 40 time, I don't think he is any longer in top-10 consideration.

The Bills lack an elite nose tackle, and in a very weak nose tackle draft that only goes three deep (Williams, Terrence Cody, Cam Thomas), Williams becomes an extremely valuable asset. This pick can't be Jason Pierre-Paul because they spent No. 11 money on Aaron Maybin last year - who plays the same position. Inside linebackers don't usually go in the top 10, and I think Rolando McClain is a slightly overrated prospect. This pick makes a lot of sense for Buffalo as they make the move to the 3-4 and are lacking a powerful 0-technique.


Jacksonville Jaguars: Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida
The Jags pick here is a bit tricky. I think they would take Jason Pierre-Paul over Derrick Morgan because he doesn't resemble Derrick Harvey as much. Pierre-Paul is a freak athlete, and physical specimens of his caliber are rare. It remains to be seen whether Gene Smith would gamble on his intelligence concerns.

Rolando McClain is a possibility here, but he isn't Patrick Willis and inside linebacker is poor positional value at this point. Some think Earl Thomas is a possibility here, and if the Jags have him ranked highly on their board then I think he certainly could be the pick.

With the money invest in David Garrard, I don't think Jimmy Clausen will be the choice, but if Smith is willing to part ways with Garrard in an uncapped year, it would make a lot of sense for a team lacking an elite signal caller.

Pick Change; previously Derrick Morgan


Denver Broncos: Rolando McClain, ILB, Alabama
McClain makes sense here to the Broncos for a lot of reasons, but I could also very well see them passing up on McClain if they are concerned enough with his Crohn's disease. This said, when I go back and re-evaluate, I think McClain to Denver is the safe (and smart) play. They really lack a thumper at inside linebacker; he brings leadership and he's a decent value at this pick when you analyze their positional needs.


Miami Dolphins: Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State
Everything that Tony Sparano and Jeff Ireland has done in Miami (because I think they don't get enough credit for running the show - all given to Bill Parcells) has centered around Chad Henne. They really believe in him and they want their offense to succeed. They picked Jake Long No. 1 overall, solidified the running game, drafted receivers and really made an effort to building around him. Henne is now the guy and he needs a No. 1 target. Maybe Miami passes up on Bryant if they feel like he is a character concern, but he has a lot of talent and receiver is one of the top two needs on the board.

With Dan Williams and Pierre-Paul off the board, this pick makes the most sense from a need and talent perspective. I don't think they will draft Earl Thomas here because they spent two top picks on defensive backs last year. I see Miami diversifying their investments and re-emphasizing the offensive side of the football in this scenario. Pierre-Paul and Dan Williams are in the pick range if they are on the board.

Pick Change; previously Jason Pierre-Paul, DE/OLB





San Francisco 49ers: Joe Haden, CB, Florida
The 49ers have to take Haden here if he is on the board. He really gives them a lot of playmaking at corner and they get a lot younger at that position. This would be a dream draft for the 49ers, and with Arizona failing to make a play for Donovan McNabb, San Francisco becomes the clear-cut favorite to win the NFC West.

Pick Change; previously Trent Williams, T


Seattle Seahawks: C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson
Anthony Davis showed up at his Pro Day late and then refused to weigh in and work out. He has severe work ethic and conditioning issues in the past, and I think Seattle would pass up on him here. Spiller is a solid value to a team desperate for a running back in a very overrated running back draft. Seattle also is abysmal in their return game so Spiller is certainly a weapon of mass destruction that this team would love to have.


New York Giants: Sean Weatherspoon, LB, Missouri
The Giants need a leader in the middle of their defense and I think Weatherspoon makes a lot of sense for this team. They are desperate at the linebacker position and need a true playmaker in the middle of their defense. Derrick Morgan and Brian Price are also in play at this pick. Weatherspoon's versatility as a weakside linebacker also makes him a very attractive option to the Giants.


Tennessee Titans: Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech
The Titans are extremely lucky to get the best pass rusher in the 2010 NFL Draft at No. 16 overall. Their defense suddenly doesn't look so depleted and with an elite coaching staff, the Titans will be a popular wild card pick if they can come away with a really good player at this selection. Morgan has a great motor and has nice technique off the edge. He can play both sides and I love his toughness.

Pick Change; previously Carlos Dunlap, DE

San Francisco 49ers: Mike Iupati, G, Idaho
When you narrow down the draft range here, a trade down makes the most sense for San Francisco. However, I don't do trades in my mocks that aren't "final." I could see the 49ers draft a pass rusher here such as Sergio Kindle, Jerry Hughes or Everson Griffen. Taylor Mays would make sense if they don't take a defensive back at No. 13 overall. Mike Iupati would be considered a decent value here by most and he amps up this teams' offense even more giving an elite push in the run game.

Pick Change; previously Joe Haden, CB


Pittsburgh Steelers: Maurkice Pouncey, G/C, Florida
I think the Steelers will draft either Iupati or Pouncey here. Pouncey gives the Steelers some much needed versatility and talent up front. He can play center and either guard position. Pouncey mauled his opponents in college, but he needs to perfect his technique at the next level as he has a tendency to get too high.

Pick Change; previously Mike Iupati, G


Atlanta Falcons: Everson Griffen, DE, USC
The Falcons could go many ways with this pick. Defensive end is certainly a need, and maybe I'll be wrong, but Brandon Graham is just too cliche here. Over the years, I've learned that cliche and "outside the top 15 picks" don't go well with one another often. Griffen presents the upside that Graham just doesn't. He has an elite first step and nice closing speed. Kyle Wilson might make some sense here to improve the corner position. This team might even trade up for Sean Weatherspoon or select him here if he's on the board.

Pick Change; previously Maurkice Pouncey, C


Houston Texans: Ryan Mathews, RB, Fresno State
The Texans were disgusted with their running game last season and I think they will look to Mathews as the solution. They want a bigger back so the two backs in the 2010 NFL Draft who make the most sense would be Ryan Mathews at No. 20 or Ben Tate in the second round. Mathews has the bulk and speed they really want. Personally, I think he is a very overrated prospect and he reminds me a lot of Donald Brown out of Connecticut from the 2009 NFL Draft in Indianapolis. Mathews had a very good offensive line in front of him and he just doesn't look very fast in pads.

Cincinnati Bengals: Taylor Mays, S, USC
Taylor Mays fits the Bengals perfectly from a philosophical standpoint. The Bengals believe in the run game. They want to run the ball and stop the run. Stopping the run is Mays' speciality (even though he takes poor pursuit angles and has poor tackling technique). I could really see Mays in a Bengal uniform because he is a big hitter and fills a need on this defense. They have been wanting to solidify this position for a while and they might convince themselves they can coach up Mays - after all, they do have one of the best defensive coaching staffs in the NFL.


New England Patriots: Jared Odrick, DT, Penn State
This is one of those picks that a lot of fans probably hate seeing in my mock draft in terms of a prospect, but one that often happens on Draft Day. Teams reach and this is a logical reach for the Pats. They are desperate to find a defensive end for their line after trading away Richard Seymour to the Raiders.

Odrick has prototypical tools to play the 5-technique position with great size, strength, quickness, active hands and a great motor. He has a bit of upside and might crack the top 20-25 of big boards for 3-4 defensive teams. Odrick makes a lot of sense here for the Pats especially since I am not so high on the outside linebackers worthy of this selection.


Green Bay Packers: Charles Brown, T, USC
I went back with Charles Brown and Kyle Wilson here after the Chad Clifton re-signing, but ultimately I don't think the Packers want to be in a hole with Aaron Rodgers where Clifton gets injured again and they have nobody to replace him. In the zone blocking scheme, I think Brown can play all four positions especially if he stays at 300-plus pounds. He makes a lot of sense for Green Bay here after he had a good weigh-in at the Combine.


Philadelphia Eagles: Earl Thomas, FS, Texas
The Eagles would be so quick to turn in their card to select Earl Thomas here. They had issues at free safety last year and they would love to get a complete playmaker to compete against a very tough NFC East. If Thomas is good for four interceptions a season, that can win this team a couple of extra games.

Baltimore Ravens: Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State
I think this is Baltimore's dream pick. Corner is one of the top needs and Wilson provides the Ravens with a lot of insurance and talent. They have been banged up quite a bit, and bringing in a young, healthy cornerback is exactly what this defense needs. It also wouldn't shock me if the Ravens surprised everyone and took somebody like Jerry Hughes. He fits this defense and would really push Terrell Suggs after his medicore 2009 season. It would be somewhat similar to what the Chargers did in 2009 with Larry English. Jared Odrick is in play if he's on the board, and it wouldn't shock me if they drafted a receiver or tight end to continue to build around Joe Flacco.


Arizona Cardinals: Jimmy Clausen, QB, Notre Dame
Jimmy Clausen's draft stock could hinge on Buffalo at No. 9. If they pass, I don't see another team in the top 25 willing to take Clausen. Arizona or Minnesota could trade up for him, but I don't project trades in my 2010 NFL Mock Draft. I just don't see Arizona passing on Clausen here. If they believe in Derek Anderson and Matt Leinart, then they really are complete idiots. Passing up on Clausen is simply a huge mistake. Quarterbacks this good generally don't fall this far in the draft, but we've seen it before with prospects like Dan Marino and Aaron Rodgers. Clausen could start immediately because he's as pro-ready as they come and I believe he makes this football team infinitely better.


Dallas Cowboys: Anthony Davis, T, Rutgers
With the release of Flozell Adams, the Cowboys might want to take Davis if they believe he's too good to pass up. Then again, I could also see the Cowboys passing on Davis if they think Doug Free is a franchise left tackle. I also don't want the Cowboys to rule them out in trading up for a player such as Jared Odrick, Earl Thomas or Taylor Mays. As good as the Cowboys are, trading up if they can leverage a good deal might be a smart move.


San Diego Chargers: Terrence Cody, NT, Alabama
With Taylor Mays and Ryan Mathews off the board, I think the Chargers would be wise to invest in the nose tackle position at this spot. I really am not sure where else the Chargers would go in the first round if they didn't invest in nose tackle, running back or strong safety, so they might a slight reach for Cody who has serious weight concerns.





New York Jets: Jerry Hughes, DE, TCU
With the trade for Santonio Holmes, I had to eliminate wide receiver as a possibility here. The Jets could draft a rush linebacker with this pick or a corner, but it is a little less likely they go corner since they now have Antonio Cromartie as a No. 2 opposite Darrell Revis. Also, if you have a very good pass rush then it makes your defensive backfield more effective. I think it all depends on what the Jets board looks like, and they could go in a direction we just don't expect.

Pick Change; previously Arrelious Benn, WR


Minnesota Vikings: Kareem Jackson, CB, Alabama
A few corners were on the board here like Devin McCourty and Jackson, but Jackson is the best fit as a zone corner in the Tampa-2 scheme. Jackson gives the Vikings a big upgrade at the corner position above Cedric Griffin. Brian Price was an option here as well, and I also considered Florida's Tim Tebow (I just puked in my mouth after writing that).


Indianapolis Colts: Sergio Kindle, DE/OLB, Texas
Brian Price, Jerry Hughes and Sergio Kindle should all be in play here for Indianapolis. I know they have Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis, but when you add an extremely good rotational end it makes your team that much better. Also, you just never know when you could suffer a major injury (if Dwight Freeney had been at 100 percent, the Colts might have won the Super Bowl last year). The Colts love undersized, speedy rushers.

Pick Change; previously Jerry Hughes, DE


New Orleans Saints: Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan
Defensive end makes the most sense if I'm the Saints. It's never a bad move to add another pass rusher especially when you have an elite offense. A great pass rush stops drives, creates turnovers, and really gives your defense some momentum. Graham, Everson Griffen and Jerry Hughes are all in play here.


Round 3:

#77-Tennessee Titans: A.J. Jefferson, CB, Fresno State
I think Jefferson is a third-round pick and I know the Titans are desperate for corner help.

#97-Tennessee Titans: Larry Asante, SS, Nebraska
It is really hard to get starters at this point in the 2010 NFL Draft, so the Titans make a classic value pick emphasizing talent over need.

http://walterfootball.com/draft2010matt_3.php

[Southside Tirant]

And here's Walter's, I'm sure you'll want to throw up on this one! Lol


#16-Tennessee Titans: Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida
This is a perfect match. The Titans really need a defensive end, and Jason Pierre-Paul fits what they look for in a prospect to a tee. Tennessee's front office loves drafting workout warriors. In 2009, it was Kenny Britt, who ran a very impressive 4.47 40 and leaped 37 inches despite being 6-3, 210. In 2008, it was Chris Johnson, who has the fastest official 40 ever at the Combine. In 2007, it was Michael Griffin, who ran a 4.45 - the best 40 time for any safety in that class.

No defensive end in this class is more athletic than Pierre-Paul. The South Florida prospect ran a 4.64 and notched a 31.5-inch vertical at 6-5, 270. More importantly, he did 13 back flips in a row. Thirteen!

Other 2010 NFL Draft Possibilities:

1. Everson Griffen, DE - Everson Griffen had an incredible Pro Day, running a 4.59 at 6-3, 268 pounds. He has massive upside and fills a big position of need. He also fits what Tennessee looks for in its prospects.

2. Devin McCourty, CB - Titans fans want Kyle Wilson, but Devin McCourty notched a 4.34 at the Combine.

Pick change; previously Everson Griffen, DE

#77- Tennessee Titans: A.J. Jefferson, CB, Fresno State
Corner is one of Tennessee's two greatest needs; the team has nothing across from Cortland Finnegan, as Nick Harper was continuously torched all season, especially in a crucial Christmas game against the Chargers.

A.J. Jefferson has great athleticism (4.43 40, 44-inch vertical), so he could be high on Tennessee's draft board.

Pick change; previously Akwasi Owusu-Ansah, CB/KR

#97- Tennessee Titans: Carlton Mitchell, WR, South Florida
Justin Gage and Nate Washington are OK, but they're not long-term secondary receivers. The Titans will love Carlton Mitchell's measurables

#111- Tennessee Titans: Jarrett Brown, QB, West Virginia
The Titans should look into finding a young quarterback in the middle rounds of the 2010 NFL Draft. If Vince Young takes a step backward, they'll need an alternative plan.

Pick change; previously Jevan Snead, QB

#148-Tennessee Titans: Chris Hawkins, CB, LSU
Another corner. When your goal is to beat Peyton Manning, you need all the talented defensive backs you can get. The Titans just signed Tye Hill, but they'll need to do better than that.

http://walterfootball.com/draft2010.php

[Southside Tirant]

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/04/14/belichick-plenty-of-calls-about-second-round-picks/

so are we talking to them about getting ours back? :lol

I haven't really put much thought into how long in-between our #16 and #77 is going to be! It's going to be horrible. I would love to have any 2nd round pick this year! But looking at last year's teams that moved into the 2nd round (Broncos) Didn't they have to give up one of their 1st round picks? Thats just robbery!

So you go me thinking... what would it take to get our 2nd round pick back from the Pats? Our 1st round pick has a value of 1000, The Pats 1st round pick has a value of 780, Our 2nd round pick they have has a value of 430! We would have to switch spots in the first round and give them our #77-3rd round pick (Value 205)! And that still leaves us at a 5 point difference.

Or... If we wanted there #53-3rd round pick (Value 370), We could offer them our #77 and next years 3rd round pick that escalates into a 2nd! Seems like a steep price though! I just see too much talent and too many questions on our roster this coming season! I wouldn't mind at all us not having a 2nd round pick next years draft more so then this years!

[TTP77]

I don't see the Fins drafting Bryant after signing Brandon Marshall to that blockbuster deal. Now I truly think the Donkeys might draft him which would literally make me LMAO!!! But I think Bryant is a stud who could be really good. But he's a bit of a dumbass apparently and there are teams who have taken him off their boards. I do truly enjoy looking at his workout video's and pictures though as he is quite the physical specimen. ;) Reminds me of Jevon in a way with how he is built.

[TTP77]

And here's Walter's, I'm sure you'll want to throw up on this one! Lol



http://walterfootball.com/draft2010.php

we don't have a second round pick why is he putting us with Dmac at 2?

[Southside Tirant]

we don't have a second round pick why is he putting us with Dmac at 2?

It's the "Other Possibility Column" for the 1st round pick! It's quite a reach to take DMac at 16 though.

[TTP77]

uggg, somehow I think Big Country and Jordan Shipley would get along real well. Jake Scott too.

http://deadspin.com/5517233/who-wants-to-see-jordan-shipley-stick-his-hands-in-a-mutilated-deer-carcass


ewww

[TTP77]

It's the "Other Possibility Column"

duh (to me) okay. well I wouldn't cry lol It would be kinda cool to have twins on the team. :)

[Southside Tirant]

duh (to me) okay. well I wouldn't cry lol It would be kinda cool to have twins on the team. :)

I'd be ok with it...So long as we moved back to get him!

[TTP77]

We don't have a second round pick. He's rising fast. If you like him you take him IMO. One thing I admire about the Titans is that they will go after a guy they like if they feel like he'll be gone. Now I'm not talking about crazy Al Davis reaches but picking DMac in the first wouldn't be a terrible reach, if any.

[Southside Tirant]

We don't have a second round pick. He's rising fast. If you like him you take him IMO. One thing I admire about the Titans is that they will go after a guy they like if they feel like he'll be gone. Now I'm not talking about crazy Al Davis reaches but picking DMac in the first wouldn't be a terrible reach, if any.

I wasn't meaning to move out of the 1st round! Just move back a few spots. I think he'll go in between 25-32 and maybe top 5 in the 2nd. I think the Vikings will grab him.

[TTP77]

Well obviously it takes a partner. we can't rely on it happening so i generally just ignore trade possibilities when discussing mocking the draft. Whether or not the 16 spot is too high is generally based on mock boards that are not always what the teams do. Each team is different and has a different board so I take it with a grain of salt. There are obvious examples of reaching like say maybe drafting Crompton in the first round. Sure I'll be fine if we move back and draft our guy but you know as well as I do you see fans saying that everywhere. It rarely works out that way lol.

[Southside Tirant]

Well obviously it takes a partner. we can't rely on it happening so i generally just ignore trade possibilities when discussing mocking the draft. Whether or not the 16 spot is too high is generally based on mock boards that are not always what the teams do. Each team is different and has a different board so I take it with a grain of salt. There are obvious examples of reaching like say maybe drafting Crompton in the first round. Sure I'll be fine if we move back and draft our guy but you know as well as I do you see fans saying that everywhere. It rarely works out that way lol.

I base it purely off the number of whatever positions in a ranking... Like, My 5-top CB's: 1-Haden, 2-Wilson, 3-Robinson and 4-McCourty! I figure Haden will go in the Top-10 Maybe 2 will go in the 10-20 and 3 or 4 will go 20-32! But yea i know what your saying! Last year i had my sights set on James Laurinaitis and i about threw my TV through the window when we picked Britt! But it worked out better then i thought it would! But usually, at least since VY was drafted the Titans have been picking in the 20's or later! So it's a little easier to predict what a team will do earlier. "Sometimes" lol ';p

[TTP77]

Rutgers cornerback Devin McCourty visited the St. Louis Rams today, according to a source close to the program.

Devin McCourtyAPRutgers cornerback Devin McCourty visited the St. Louis Rams today.

He has previously visited the Cleveland Browns, New York Jets, San Diego Chargers and the Dallas Cowboys.

McCourty has met previously with New York Jets coach Rex Ryan and Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator Rob Ryan.

McCourty has also met with the New England Patriots.

And the Baltimore Ravens sent secondary coach Chuck Pagano and director of college scouting Joe Hortiz to McCourty's Pro Day workout.

McCourty blocked seven kicks at Rutgers and intercepted four passes during his final three seasons.

What separates McCourty from the large pack of talented cornerbacks jockeying for position?

"I think being a complete football player and not just a corner or a nickel," McCourty said during the NFL scouting combine. "Being able to do everything a coach wants on special teams, too."

The 5-foot-10, 193-pounder is known for his cover skills and athleticism.

And he offers another dimension with his work on special teams.

"He might be the best special-teams value in the draft in addition to being a potential starting corner," NFL Network analyst Mike Mayock said. "He's a gunner and a jammer, and he's a return guy. I think he could fit in quickly in the nickel package.

"He's a very, very physical defensive back. Most people have him going in the second round, but he could be a legitimate late first-round pick."
NFP

[TTP77]

The Titans' biggest need going into the NFL Draft is undeniable, and draft guru Corey Chavous thinks the best player to fill that need is obvious.

But it's not that simple. No way, not in the draft. Not when there are too many other factors that could mess it all up, like a team in front of the Titans picking that player.

Chavous, the founder of DraftNasty.com, said Georgia Tech defensive end Derrick Morgan is the best fit for the Titans, who have the 16th pick. But in his mock draft of all 32 first-round selections, Chavous has Morgan, an All-American who had 12.5 sacks last season, going to the Seahawks at No. 14.

"I like Morgan for them, I really do,'' Chavous said of the Titans. "He gives them some flexibility. He would be a perfect fit. He's going to be a really good player at a position where they need to go. But what happens if he's not there?

"Then does it become best player available for them? Is there another defensive end you like as well? Is there a player who might fall to them they didn't expect to be there? There are all kinds of scenarios that could play out.''

http://www.tennessean.com/article/20100415/SPORTS01/4150362/2196/SPORTS

[TTP77]

Also from that same article


Assuming Morgan is off the board before the 16th pick, Chavous has the Titans taking Southern Cal defensive end Everson Griffen. Yet he gave Morgan to the Titans in a http://www.tennessean.com/assets/pdf/DN155668415.PDF">seven-round mock draft he compiled for The Tennessean on Wednesday.

"It depends on what flavor you are looking at defensive end,'' Chavous said. "I'm just not as high on Pierre-Paul as a lot of people are. It depends on how long you are going to wait and let him develop. But if are going to put him in right away, a lot of teams are going to run the football on him. He has tremendous agility, but he is raw athletically. He has to work on his body control. He's more of a project.''

Chavous also has concerns about Pierre-Paul's academic performance and how it might affect his ability to pick up a defensive scheme in the NFL.

Chavous expects the Titans will also fill their cornerback, linebacker and return-game needs in the earlier rounds before filling some holes on offense.

Pierre-Paul, rated the 46th-best player in the draft by Chavous, had 6.5 sacks in one season at South Florida after playing for community colleges in 2007 and '08.

Michigan defensive end Brandon Graham impresses Chavous, who also rates Florida's Carlos Dunlap a lot higher than most — he has the former Gator as the 17th-best player. He likes Texas Christian's Jerry Hughes.

As for Griffen, there's a significant upside but also a lot of questions.

"He is a good athlete and he is in that same category athletically as Pierre-Paul, but he has some experience,'' Chavous said. "The only problem I have is he has struggled to stay on the field. … And at times he needs to be more aggressive; he is not a trained killer. … He has not dominated games like you'd like to see him do.''

Chavous expects the Titans will also fill their cornerback, linebacker and return-game needs in the earlier rounds before filling some holes on offense.

And he wouldn't be surprised if the Titans are very tempted by Oklahoma State wide receiver Dez Bryant — if he's still available at 16 — instead of a defensive end.

[Southside Tirant]

I just realized Jason McCourty is taller then Devin! I have Jason listed at 6'0. I always thought they were identical twins. I couldn't find any combine numbers for Jason, I'm assuming it might be because he wasn't invited to the combine! But there should be a way to look up old Pro-Days! But from what i could find it sounds like Jason is faster then Devin! It said on NFL.Com Jason ran in the 4.3's and if I'm not mistaken Devin ran in the low 4.4's!

[Southside Tirant]

Hey TTP77... Did you look at Corey Chavous mock draft??? It's not bad, But where the hell is J.Haden??? lol.


TEAM PLAYER, POSITION, COLLEGE
1. St. Louis Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma
2. Detroit Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska
3. Tampa Bay Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma
4. Washington Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State
5. Kansas City Eric Berry, CB/S, Tennessee
6. Seattle Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma
7. Cleveland Earl Thomas, CB/S, Texas
8. Oakland Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers
9. Buffalo Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa
10. Jacksonville CJ Spiller, RB/KR/PR, Clemson
11. Denver Jason Pierre-Paul, DE/OLB, South Florida
12. Miami Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee
13. San Francisco Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State
14. Seattle Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech
15. N.Y. Giants Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama
16. Tennessee Everson Griffen, DE, USC
17. San Francisco Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland
18. Pittsburgh Mike Iupati, OG, Idaho
19. Atlanta Brandon Graham, DE/OLB, Michigan
20. Houston Devin McCourty, CB/KR, Rutgers
21. Cincinnati Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma
22. New England Ryan Mathews, RB, Fresno State
23. Green Bay Patrick Robinson, CB, Florida State
24. Philadelphia Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida
25. Baltimore Brian Price, DT, UCLA
26. Arizona Jerry Hughes, OLB/DE, TCU
27. Dallas Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State
28. San Diego Jahvid Best, RB, California
29. N.Y. Jets Sergio Kindle, OLB/DE, Texas
30. Minnesota Vikings Colt McCoy, QB, Texas
31. Indianapolis Colts Maurkice Pouncey, C, Florida
32. New Orleans Saints Sean Weatherspoon, LB, Missouri

http://www.tennessean.com/assets/pdf/DN155667415.PDF

[Southside Tirant]

Here's his Titan Mock Draft. If you did see this already, I'm surprised you didn't post it TTP77.


1ST ROUND, 16TH OVERALL
DE Derrick Morgan, Georgia Tech. He has a motor a lot
like Kyle Vanden Bosch, and may even use his hands better.
The problem: he may not be there at 16. In that case,
Southern Cal’s Everson Griffen is the pick.

3RD ROUND, 77TH OVERALL
LB Perry Riley, LSU. He’s an outstanding athlete and he
has a tremendous amount of upside. He’ll fit in well with
what Tennessee does on defense.

3rd ROUND, 97th OVERALL
CB Akwasi Owusa-Ansah, Indiana (Pa.). He’s much like
Cortland Finnegan in that he can break on the football in
the three-deep zone. He’s big and he runs well. He’s an
up-and-coming player, and he’s a definite return guy.

4th ROUND, 111th OVERALL
WR Taylor Price, Ohio. He offers the dynamic speed and
is a lot faster than people realize. And I’m not real sold
on their receivers. He’s good value here.

5th ROUND, 148th OVERALL
DT Geno Atkins, Georgia. They need an inside presence
who can get after the quarterback. He’s a quick defensive
lineman who would fit well with what they ask their
guys to do.

6th ROUND, 185th OVERALL
CB/Returner Dominique Franks, Oklahoma. He has outstanding
ball skills and can return kicks. His lapses in
concentration and technique cause him to fall to the
Titans, who will be able to develop him.

6th ROUND, 207th OVERALL
LB Travis Goethel, Arizona State. He has played inside
and outside. He’s a good special teams player and can
cover well, which is key for linebackers in the Titans’
scheme. Plus, he can be a backup long snapper. He’s
underrated.

7th ROUND, 222nd OVERALL
QB Rusty Smith, Florida Atlantic. If not for a midseason
injury, he would probably be picked a lot higher. At 6-5,
228, he has great size and has potential to be a good one.

7th ROUND, 241st OVERALL
OG/OC Thomas Austin, Clemson. He’s capable of playing
center and guard, and would give them some versatility

http://www.tennessean.com/assets/pdf/DN155668415.PDF

[Southside Tirant]

Thought this was a pretty interesting article...


"Making picks: Concern with consensus?"

When players want to steer clear of trouble with the bosses, they are fond of saying “players play, coaches coach.”

As the draft approaches, I wonder how often scouts mumble the variation: “Scouts scout, coaches coach.”

Not long ago, the Tennessee Titans had a somewhat distinct division of power along those lines.

Former GM Floyd Reese respected Jeff Fisher’s staff. But Reese believed it was his job to assess the talent and to provide it to be coached up.

There were exceptions, of course. Offensive line coach Mike Munchak was the primary force behind the selection of left tackle Michael Roos in 2005, for example.

The scouts I know respect the opinion of a position coach like Munchak.

How could they not appreciate the track record of a Hall of Fame player in developing quality linemen? Still, in a general scout-assistant matchup where the credentials are more even, scouts should hold the trump card, don’t you agree?

One scout I spoke to this week pointed to nine months of work including all those live visits against four to six weeks of study done primarily with tape.

If a GM needs to lean one way or the other, this scout said he should lean with the scout. And on his team, he said that’s usually the way it goes.

Most often, Reese was making the call with the support of his scouting staff. Position coach input was a relatively small ingredient.

And so, when some of Reese’s players didn’t match expectations, a semi-traditional tug of war commenced: Position coaches might gripe about the talent they were -- or were not -- given; the personnel department could grumble about how coaches were not bringing out a player’s best.

Now the man who replaced Reese in 2007, Mike Reinfeldt, strives for harmony and consent and has drafted several players in part because of large endorsements from assistant coaches with mixed degrees of success.

Secondary coach Marcus Robertson liked Ryan Mouton, who struggled as a rookie in 2009.

Defensive line coach Jim Washburn wanted Jason Jones and William Hayes in 2008, and they still rate as works in progress.

Former running backs coach Sherman Smith endorsed Chris Henry in 2007, and Henry busted and is gone.

Reinfeldt’s counterparts in the AFC South seek to be consensus builders too, though Colts president Bill Polian and Jaguars general manager Gene Smith are more powerful than Reinfeldt and Texans GM Rick Smith when it comes to final decisions.


Retired coach Steve Walters, who worked in New England and New Orleans before wrapping up his career with stops in Tennessee and Jacksonville overseeing receivers, said he agreed with that. Under Reese he rarely did much hands-on work with prospects. Assistants just weren’t used that way much. Under James “Shack” Harris with the Jaguars, dumped after the 2008 season, Walters said he and the assistants played a bigger role in scouting.

I can see some value in a more old-school approach to how things should work. It was often unhealthy to have “Reese guys” and “Fisher guys” on the Oilers and Titans. But a position coach didn’t have any more stake in Player A than he did in Player B and it felt like a system of checks and balances was in place.

Washburn helped turn late-round picks by Reese like Robaire Smith (sixth round, 2000) and Carlos Hall (seventh, 2002) into productive players. More recently, he’s given his blessing to the team’s choice of Jones and Hayes under Reinfeldt .

Might the hard-nosed Washburn, even subconsciously, be inclined to give Jones and Hayes a bit more leeway than a guy previously forced on him despite his protests? Might he, even subconsciously, be rooting for them a bit more, because he stuck his neck out for them?

My initial answer to those questions was that I expected he would, and that such things be detrimental. But in hashing it out with a scout and a former coach, I am no longer as staunch in my opinion.

I do still think it’s an interesting question to consider.

My scout told me the additional accountability that comes with a position coach endorsement is a good thing. Maybe a coach would want to stick with such a player a snap, a series, a game or a season too long, but the cross-checking and co-sign from a GM and his scouts provides the necessary context and cover for such scenarios.

You can take the accountability idea in many different directions, though.

If there is a scouting-coaching split, it’s easier to trace an evaluation mistake back to where it happened. On the consensus side, the saying goes that it’s amazing how much can be accomplished if no one cares about who gets the credit. What about the blame?

Ultimately, an owner should want to know who is nailing assessments and who is botching them.

Walters said when an assistant feels he got what he asked for, he is conscious of having endorsed a guy.

“If you stand on the table for a guy and say, ‘I really think this is the guy and these are the reasons why’ and you can build a case for the guy, your opinion may push it over the top for a guy that you want,” he said. “And if you get that guy you’re certainly a little bit on the line for him because they’re going to remember what you said.

“If they just say ‘Here are your guys, like them or not,’ whether you had any input into them or not…”

His voice trailed off and he left that one hanging.

I’d be inclined to finish it: “Well that’s a different deal.”

http://espn.go.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/21624/making-picks-concern-with-consensus

[Maximus]

Where's Jimmy Clausen?

[TTP77]

I don't see us drafting an olineman this year. I think we would draft an RB over an olineman. I don't see us taking a WR that early either. Also, I don't see us drafting two CB's. We'll draft a safety over the CB position IMO.

EDIT: I also don't see Jags taking Spiller at the 10 spot. Also, no way in hades the Ravens or any other 3-4 will let Jared Odrick slide by them. Price is generally seen as a better fit in a 4-3.

[Southside Tirant]

I don't see Haden falling completely out of the 1st round let alone the 1st 15 picks! His website is pretty usefull though! Alot of Info on players!

http://draftnasty.com/

[Southside Tirant]

The more i think about this new thing with the draft being spread out with the 1st round being Thursday, The 2nd and 3rd Friday and the 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th Saterday! The more i like! I think it gives us that more of a chance to find a way back into the 2nd round!

[Southside Tirant]

Thinking more on the subject of moving into the second round, I wanted to look at trades in the past and i found 1 that was close! If anyone else wants to do a little research on the matter feel free! I would like to see more.

2009: Dallas trades 2nd round pick #51 to Bills for 3rd #75 and 4th #111!

[TTP77]

It does seem like the new format is conducive to more trades. Whether it will happen remains to be seen though.

[TTP77]

Thought this was interesting


A survey of 21 NFL scouts and personnel executives found that the majority do not think Tim Tebow will be an NFL starter and do not think he should be taken in the first or second round of the draft.

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/04/17/survey-of-scouts-contains-bad-news-for-tebow/

I guess I just wonder how truthful these guys are going to be this close to draft time. If someone is interested in Tebow and wants to draft him later than the first round would they really say they love the guy? I just don't know.

[gnarl]

i think tebow may have a hard time in the NFL, but i dont see why so many people think he will be unsuccessful?

you know youre going to get someone who is going to be the first one at practice & last one to leave. He works hard, and i really think he could develop to be a player that could possibly put a team on his back if needed.

if you wanna know who i think is going to bust, Jimmy Clausen.

That guy has Ryan Leaf 2.0 written all over his face.

[TTP77]

I'm totally unsold on Clausen too.

[TTP77]

Interesting nugget from NFP


Finally, every source I’ve spoken to has said his team is willing to take a long, hard look at Oklahoma State WR Dez Bryant – even if it means taking him over one of their outlined needs -- if he falls into the teens on draft day.

MORE HERE

http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Predraft-rumors-and-rumblings.html

also an interesting article on Dexter McCluster who may now be a second round pick

http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Why-McClusters-draft-stock-is-rising.html

[Johnnyb]

Thought this was interesting



http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/04/17/survey-of-scouts-contains-bad-news-for-tebow/

I guess I just wonder how truthful these guys are going to be this close to draft time. If someone is interested in Tebow and wants to draft him later than the first round would they really say they love the guy? I just don't know.

The thing is it doesn't say all of the scouts... just a majority. It only takes one team to love him to make him a first or second rounder.

[Southside Tirant]

Thinking more on the subject of moving into the second round, I wanted to look at trades in the past and i found 1 that was close! If anyone else wants to do a little research on the matter feel free! I would like to see more.

2009: Dallas trades 2nd round pick #51 to Bills for 3rd #75 and 4th #111!

There's got to be something wrong with this trade i posted! I started doing the math on the trade value and the #51 has a value of 390 and the #75 is 215 and 111 is 72! That only comes to 287. Either teams don't stick to the Value board or i missed something!

The reason i started this is because i wanted to look at teams that had multiple 2nd round picks around that area and found the Eagles have 2-2nd round picks! And one of them is #55 (value 350), And if teams do stick close to the chart (which I'm assuming they do) We couldn't even match 350 with all of the picks we can trade without messing with our 1st! I guess what i'm trying to say is... It seems very unrealistic to move into the 2nd round without moving down from #16 or trading players or next years picks. I'm confused and going to bed, lol. 4 days to go people.

[TTP77]

We don't have to trade just this year's picks and we could trade a player as part of the deal. did that trade you referenced include trading a player?

Also, it looks like Rolando McClain is saying he doesn't have Crohn's decision after all.

[TTP77]

http://espn.go.com/blog/afcsouth/post/_/id/10878/nfl-blog-network-mock-draft


16. Brandon Graham
Defensive End
Michigan The draft's first CB or second DE? The Titans go polished production over long-term upside in Jason Pierre-Paul. But with good options on the board at both positions, I think they'd love to move back, perhaps for Pierre-Paul or Kyle Wilson later. (Paul Kuharsky)

thought it was a pretty good mock overall

[TTP77]

NFL draft live chat today at 2:30pm!: Wes Bunting stops by for a one-hour draft chat beginning at 2:30pm. http://bit.ly/9vrvby

NFP. This is a great site if anyone is interested in draft coverage....

[TTP77]

Gosselin's second mock draft is up...

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/spt/columnists/rgosselin/stories/041810dnspogoosemock.33ea398.html

Our pick:

Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan

The Titans need to dial up the heat on Peyton Manning

[TTP77]

hmm, he calls this his first mock draft...

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/spt/football/nfl/stories/041110dnspogosselinmock.441bfe6.html



EDIT: This is a really good article from Gosselin on Chris Cook, Mardy Gilyard, and Amari Spievey

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/spt/columnists/rgosselin/stories/041810dnspogosselin.3c633cf.html

[TTP77]

Found this really good article on the top DE's on PK's blog...

http://www.footballoutsiders.com/nfl-draft/2010/introducing-sackseer

[Southside Tirant]

Titans' McCourty: Pick my brother

Cornerback Jason McCourty knows who he’d pick if the Titans placed him in charge of their draft board – Rutgers cornerback Devin McCourty. He knows him well. They're twin brothers. Devin was born 27 minutes earlier than Jason.

Devin elected to stay in school another year, and it’s paid off. His draft stock is soaring.

“A lot of people have him going at the end of the first round or the beginning of the second,’’ said Jason McCourty, a sixth-round pick by the Titans last year. “Either way I think it would be a great opportunity for him to go that first day or second day.

“We are very similar. All throughout our lives we have had similar athletic ability no matter what the sport and I think this extra year in college has really propelled him to the top as far as cornerbacks and I think that is what has separated him, that he has that extra year. I am so happy he has been able to take advantage of that opportunity. He’s going to do well.’’

Devin McCourty is now regarded as one of the top three to five cornerbacks. Back in February, many analysts projected him as a third– or fourth-round pick, but his stock has been on the rise. He’s a physical corner with impressive return skills.

Jason and Devin were teammates at Rutgers in 2008. Could they potentially be teammates again? Jason, who played in 15 games for the Titans last season, said he has no special insight into Tennessee's plan.

“That would be awesome, my mom would love it,’’ Jason said. "It would be less traveling on her part for sure. But I don’t know … The only thing I hear is what I read in the newspaper, about who the Titans might want to draft. But other than that I have no idea. I’d love it, but I am just hoping the sky is the limit for him wherever he goes. I know he is going to work hard to be the best he can be.’’

http://blogs.tennessean.com/titans/2010/04/19/titans-mccourty-pick-my-brother/

[Southside Tirant]

Ahmard Hall wants more Texas flavor

Titans fullback Ahmard Hall is expecting the same thing a lot of fans are expecting leading up to the NFL draft. “Everybody pretty much knows it’s going to be a defensive-controlled draft,’’ Hall said Sunday night. “So if we can get some guys who can come in and help up on defense then great."

But Hall knows two players he’d like to see add: receiver Jordan Shipley and defensive end/linebacker Sergio Kindle. It’s understandable. Both played at Texas. So did Hall and fellow Titans Vince Young, Bo Scaife, Michael Griffin and recently signed back-up QB Chris Simms.

"If we can steal Jordan Shipley in the second or third round, that would be great for me,’’ Hall said.

Kindle is projected as a first-round pick. Said Hall: “I have heard a lot about Sergio and I think he would be a great addition to the team. He works hard and he is going to be accountable. (Defensive line coach Jim Washburn) likes him, so the more Texas guys we can get in the locker room, the better we will be. It would definitely be Texas North if we could get a couple more additions.’’

[Southside Tirant]

We don't have to trade just this year's picks and we could trade a player as part of the deal. did that trade you referenced include trading a player?

Also, it looks like Rolando McClain is saying he doesn't have Crohn's decision after all.

I'm not sure! I tried to look at past trades and they were kind of hard to understand! I think I'm just going to leave it alone, I was driving myself crazy last night thinking about it! And it makes no sense to research all this stuff that makes no difference on what we might do. I do know to trade picks in the following year... It takes allot more! For instance us and the Jags had to give up 2nd's for 3rd's and the Broncos had to give up a 1st for a 2nd! Unless we can somehow give up a 3rd this year and a 3rd next year for a 2nd in the middle or late 2nd round is the only way i can see it! I Just can't see having to wait all the way from #16 to #77! This isn't the year to have no 2nd round pick. I would gladly give up next years 2nd to replace this years!

But here i go again, I need to stop! I need a xanax to calm down, lol. "3 days to go"

[Southside Tirant]

He has us taking J.P.P With Morgan still on the board!


Kirwan's 3-round mock draft

16. Tennessee Titans
Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida
This is a risky pick because Pierre-Paul is so raw and only has seven college starts, but he has the physical traits of a premier defensive end. The Titans have a tremendous defensive line coach to develop him.

77. Tennessee Titans
Jason Worilds, LB, Virginia Tech
Whether Keith Bulluck returns or not from injury, the Titans need to get younger at outside linebacker. Worilds is a terrific special teams guy with Elvis Dumervil-type rush skills.

97. Tennessee Titans
Major Wright, S, Florida
Wright can play free or strong, and likes to tackle. He needs some technique work, but was a smart three-year starter.

http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d81797479&template=with-video-with-comments&confirm=true

[TitansGiantsBears]

Why look at Texas players if you're looking to draft defense? :evilgrin

[TitansGiantsBears]

My thoughts on Pierre-Paul is that I'd rather trade back than to take him at #16. There are just too many question marks and the Titans need a sure thing in the first round especially if they don't manage to trade into the second round. The guy they bring in has to be an immediate contributor or it's a wasted pick. A developmental guy will do little for this defense this year. I've heard some say that Pierre-Paul may develop into a beast by his third year. If he signs a four year deal, he'll be gone by the time he starts living up to that potential because the Titans won't pay him.

[TTP77]

pssstt Sarge.....come a lil bit closer :slap

just say no to Texas North! :p

[Southside Tirant]

Walter's new 7-round Mock Draft.


1st- Tennessee Titans: Everson Griffen, DE, USC
In almost every NFL Draft, there's a surprise pick in the top 16. This is a very likely "shocker" selection.

Most Titans fans would be upset by this, but I think it has a very good chance of happening. Tennessee's front office loves drafting workout warriors. In 2009, it was Kenny Britt, who ran a very impressive 4.47 40 and leaped 37 inches despite being 6-3, 210. In 2008, it was Chris Johnson, who has the fastest official 40 ever at the Combine. In 2007, it was Michael Griffin, who ran a 4.45 - the best 40 time for any safety in that class.

Everson Griffen had an incredible Pro Day, running a 4.59 at 6-3, 268 pounds. He has massive upside and fills a big position of need. He also fits what Tennessee looks for in its prospects.

Other 2010 NFL Draft Possibilities:

1. Jason Pierre-Paul, DE - This is Tennessee's ideal pick, but given his enormous upside, he may not be available.

2. Devin McCourty, CB - Titans fans want Kyle Wilson, but Devin McCourty notched a 4.34 at the Combine.

Pick change; previously Jason Pierre-Paul, DE

3rd-Tennessee Titans: A.J. Jefferson, CB, Fresno State
Corner is one of Tennessee's two greatest needs; the team has nothing across from Cortland Finnegan, as Nick Harper was continuously torched all season, especially in a crucial Christmas game against the Chargers.

A.J. Jefferson has great athleticism (4.43 40, 44-inch vertical), so he could be high on Tennessee's draft board.

3rd-Tennessee Titans: Carlton Mitchell, WR, South Florida
Justin Gage and Nate Washington are OK, but they're not long-term secondary receivers. The Titans will love Carlton Mitchell's measurables.

4th-Tennessee Titans: Jarrett Brown, QB, West Virginia
The Titans should look into finding a young quarterback in the middle rounds of the 2010 NFL Draft. If Vince Young takes a step backward, they'll need an alternative plan.

5th-Tennessee Titans: Chris Hawkins, CB, LSU
Another corner. When your goal is to beat Peyton Manning, you need all the talented defensive backs you can get. The Titans just signed Tye Hill, but they'll need to do better than that.

6th-Tennessee Titans: Shawn Lauvao, G, Arizona State
If Kevin Mawae doesn't return in 2010, the Titans will have very little proven depth in the interior of the offensive line.

6th-Tennessee Titans: Stevenson Sylvester, OLB, Utah
Someone to push Gerald McRath, who was absolutely torched in that crucial Christmas game against the Chargers.

7th-Tennessee Titans: Kyle Bosworth, OLB, UCLA
A late-round pick could be used for linebacker depth. Plus, Gerald McRath may not be the long-term solution at the position.

7th-Tennessee Titans: Nate Collins, DT, Virginia
Once again, you need a strong, deep defensive line and as many pass-rushers as possible to have a chance against the Colts.

http://walterfootball.com/draft2010.php

[TTP77]

yea Southside, well I've come to the conclusion that guy is a major moron. that is quite possibly the stupidest mock for this team I've seen yet. a buttload of CB's and not one safety which is really a bigger need overall than CB. He wants us to draft an OL because we have "little proven depth." ok, let's go out and draft even more unproven depth! :slap

I see he's picking on McRath for the Chargers game. Guess he finally realized he was wrong about Nick Harper on that one.

I do like the Jarrett Brown pick though lol

[Southside Tirant]

I guess I'm not the only one pondering how we can get back in the second round! I don't like the idea of swapping our 1st for 2-2nd's though. And I'm not sure if he's saying teams do or don't try to get equal value from the value chart? Or if teams would actually take a trade close to a hundred point difference (Which is about the equivalent of a 4th round pick).

And I'm not sure how happy I'd be moving that far back either, But if it happens... What can you do? lol.


The Big Question: Can teams get into 2nd?

Can the Jaguars or Titans get back into the second round?


Jacksonville is set to go on pause after pick No. 10 until No. 74 overall in the third round, the price of the pick the Jaguars got from New England last April to get Derek Cox with the 73rd pick.

Tennessee will go silent after No. 16 until No. 77 in the third, the cost of the selection the Titans got from New England last April to get Jared Cook with the 89th pick.

But both teams have needs, won’t necessarily be in love with someone in their first-round slots and would surely love to get back into the second round.

So what would it cost?

Here are hypothetical trade examples for each team using our draft value trade chart that’s below.

They are not based on me knowing anything about the Eagles, Chargers or Cowboys wanting the trade up. (Please read that twice.) I just think those three teams are in the area where the Jaguars or Titans would like to move down to, and the Eagles are intriguing because they have two second-rounders.


Jacksonville gives up No. 10 for Philadelphia’s No. 1 pick at No. 24 and also gets Philadelphia’s second second-rounder, 55th overall, and a seventh-rounder, 200th overall. (Chart values, that’s 1,300-1,102.4.)
Jacksonville gives up No. 10 for San Diego’s No. 1 pick at 28 and also gets San Diego’s second-rounder, 40th overall, and a seventh-rounder, 235th overall. (Chart values, that’s 1,300 to 1,161.9)
Tennessee gives up No. 16 for Philadelphia’s two No. 2 picks, 37th and 55th overall. (Chart values, that’s 1,000-880.)
Tennessee gives up No. 16 for Dallas’ No., 1 pick at No. 27 and also gets Dallas’ second rounder, 59th overall. (Chart values, that’s 1,000-990.)
If the Jaguars or Titans don’t have a true love available at 10 or 16 and the Eagles, Chargers or Cowboys were willing partners, I’d have no beef with those deals or anything similar.

I’ve touched on how our ability to add up the numbers may prevent some teams from making deals that don’t quite add up, like these don’t. But if you want out of your spot and you are determined to get a second-round pick, I’m OK with you getting a little less than what fans and media will feel is full value based on this chart.

http://espn.go.com/blog/nflnation/post?id=21794

[TitansJonne]

Jason is asking for trouble. Because if we get his brother and he plays well, that means jason is a backup because neither will unseat finny.

[Southside Tirant]

yea Southside, well I've come to the conclusion that guy is a major moron. that is quite possibly the stupidest mock for this team I've seen yet. a buttload of CB's and not one safety which is really a bigger need overall than CB. He wants us to draft an OL because we have "little proven depth." ok, let's go out and draft even more unproven depth! :slap

I see he's picking on McRath for the Chargers game. Guess he finally realized he was wrong about Nick Harper on that one.

I do like the Jarrett Brown pick though lol

I agree with you, But if Mawae doesn't come back we're going to need a backup C/G depending on what spot Harris takes! A team should at least have one backup for every O-Line position! Last year we kept one less active because of Harris's versatility to start at Guard or Center! Now with him starting it actually leaves us needing 2 player's to fill in. If Ryan Durand steps up we should only need 1! But I'm not sure Durand has any experience playing Center. If Valesco steps up we might not need any! Because he's sort of a poor mans Harris, He can play Center or Guard, But that's all i know about him, To tell you the trueth... I don't know if he's even good as a backup. But i do think we should grab 1 just in case. Or find one via free agency or Undrafted free agent, which-ever.

[TTP77]

Don't we still have Mike Otto too? I think he can play either center or guard as well.

[Rolltide14TOMB]

Javy Javy javy.....with the 32nd pick in the 2010 NFL Draft the Tennessee Titans select Tim Tebow QB University of Florida

in my defense.....at least javy had a good year.....:hide

besides that, yeah, horrible preseason comment :peepwall

i shoud probably get a notice :banned

[Southside Tirant]

Don't we still have Mike Otto too? I think he can play either center or guard as well.

Mike Otto is a Left Tackle, And the only one out of the group that hasn't played a different position, (I'd have to research that a little more)! Troy Kropog can play Tackle or Guard and Fernando Velasco can play C/G! But regardless the subtraction of one needs an addition of another. But both spent most of the year on the practice squad. The way i look at it is... Just give Munch his own selection in the 6th or 7th round just like in the past.

[TTP77]

I'm pretty certain when we drafted Otto he was supposed to be able to play center. i'ma think on this and look back but i wonder how many olinemen we will even carry. now i could see us signing some UDFA's at the position for competition and camp bodies.

[gnarl]

this is very random, but if I haven't mentioned it before...color me unimpressed with jason peirre-paul. I know his athletism and potential is quite high but honestly, if that's the case...would anyone be opposed if we drafted secondary or a different player first round and trade a 6th or 7th pick for vernon gholston from the jets?

I know you're probably thinking "why he's a bust." but he has (or had) tons of potential and he is very athletic for a big man & he is still fairly young. I also mention this because w/ the addition of Jason Taylor, he is probably going to be buried in the depth chart & it seems like they finally have given up on him.

he was very productive as a 4-3 DE is college, maybe he's just not ment for 3-4 or comfortable with it...so who knows maybe he could thrive in our scheme. besides I don't care how much of a defensive guru rex ryan is, I doubt he can bring out the best of his d line like washburn can.

[TTP77]

yowza, this is scary stuff

http://cfn.scout.com/2/964152.html


Out of the last 22 teams to play in the last 11 Super Bowls, just 12 them drafted and developed their quarterback. Of those 12 teams, Tom Brady was under center for four of them (and he was a dumb-luck sixth round pick), two were quarterbacked by Peyton Manning, a once-in-a-generation star, and two were quarterbacked by Ben Roethlisberger, who was along for the ride for one of his championships. The other four were led by Donovan McNabb, Rex Grossman, Steve McNair, and Eli Manning, and only Manning won a title.

It could be argued (very subjectively) that of the last 22 Super Bowl teams, only five, the 2006 and 2009 Indianapolis Colts, the 2004 Philadelphia Eagles, the 1999 Tennessee Titans, and the 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers, were there because of the highly drafted quarterbacks taken by their respective teams. Eli Manning might have been great at times, but the 2007 New York Giants won because of a defensive front that sat on the heads of opposing quarterbacks, the 2006 Chicago Bears (Grossman) and the 2005 Pittsburgh Steelers (Roethlisberger) got in mainly because of hot defenses and great running games.

In other words, there's no reason to blow tens of millions of dollars on a quarterback with a high draft pick, and you should let someone else develop the passer who'll someday lead you to big things.

[TTP77]

possibly the funniest mock i've read yet and comes complete with fake trades! how can you not like that? or something....

of course, i hate this...


16. Tennessee
Jason Pierre-Paul, DE

Fun moment on my NFL draft preview podcast: Lombardi (the old-school former GM who studies tape) absolutely loved Pierre-Paul's potential, then Aaron Schatz (the head of www.footballoutsiders.com) came on and introduced his new SackSEER formula for evaluating speed rushers, which, of course, absolutely despised Pierre-Paul. Now I'm thinking ESPN needs a weekly show called "You Make My Skin Crawl," with old-school scouts/executives arguing with sabermetricians about a variety of sports topics and never agreeing on anything. Not only would I watch this show, I want to host it.

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/100420

[TTP77]

SI_RossTucker

Cincy WR M. Gilyard told us that he thinks Kyle Wilson is better than Joe Haden. Gilyard played against both. Says Wilson's a "technician".

hmmm, interesting.....

[TitansGiantsBears]

yea Southside, well I've come to the conclusion that guy is a major moron. that is quite possibly the stupidest mock for this team I've seen yet. a buttload of CB's and not one safety which is really a bigger need overall than CB. He wants us to draft an OL because we have "little proven depth." ok, let's go out and draft even more unproven depth! :slap

I see he's picking on McRath for the Chargers game. Guess he finally realized he was wrong about Nick Harper on that one.

I do like the Jarrett Brown pick though lol

I agree that this is a horrible mock. The Titans don't even have a 2nd round pick for one thing! I think it's a stretch to say the Titans need a safety more than they need a corner. Other than Finnegan who is solid, there's not another starting caliber corner on the roster. We have a buttload of depth guys at the position. They would be great depth if we had two legitimate starters, but we don't. With anything resembling a pass rush, Hope and Griffin should bounce back to form. Neither is great but they're at least serviceable with a rush. Back to the mock - If the Titans wait until the final two rounds to add linebackers they will get no one to push anybody. The need is too great at the position to wait that long.

[TTP77]

I agree that this is a horrible mock. The Titans don't even have a 2nd round pick for one thing! I think it's a stretch to say the Titans need a safety more than they need a corner. Other than Finnegan who is solid, there's not another starting caliber corner on the roster. We have a buttload of depth guys at the position. They would be great depth if we had two legitimate starters, but we don't. With anything resembling a pass rush, Hope and Griffin should bounce back to form. Neither is great but they're at least serviceable with a rush. Back to the mock - If the Titans wait until the final two rounds to add linebackers they will get no one to push anybody. The need is too great at the position to wait that long.

Hope is scheduled to earn a buttload of money the next two years and he will be how old? i'm not convinced either he or Griff will bounce back but maybe. Besides we have no real depth at safety. I have more faith in Griff really. The real issue is not having a second round pick. I agree we need depth at LB. We really need depth at many spots...except CB! Your argument is that we need a dominant CB. I understand there are those who doubt the current crop of CB's on the roster. But if you can't get a good CB in round 1 then why do you think another later round one is going to be a difference maker?

[Johnnyb]

SI_RossTucker

Cincy WR M. Gilyard told us that he thinks Kyle Wilson is better than Joe Haden. Gilyard played against both. Says Wilson's a "technician".


hmmm, interesting.....

Very interesting indeed. I certainly wouldn't feel bad at all if we took Wilson at 16. There's only a few guys I'll be upset with if we take, wouldn't mind a DE or CB so hopefully I won't be too upset tomorrow :)

[TTP77]

I'd be fine with Kyle Wilson too. But I don't think he'll be there.

[TTP77]

This is just one example of why I majorly <3 Eric Berry...


# NFLFanHouse

"That was it for me with Deion. And that's why I've never tried to disappoint any kid that walks up to me." 14 minutes ago via TweetDeck

# NFLFanHouse NFLFanHouse

Eric Berry on Deion Sanders: "I went to one of his games once as a kid. I asked him for an autograph afterward and he just blew me off. "

Eric, I wish you much success and happiness in your NFL career. :)




EDIT: and good article too

http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2010/04/21/a-berry-more-than-ready-to-be-picked/

[Southside Tirant]

I'm praying we can get our hands on J.Shipley or J.Arenas! Or both! I just watched Shipley's YouTube Video on the Tennessean and the hair on my head stood up! I think he could be exactly what Welker is to the Pats, And being from Texas wouldn't hurt either, VY would trust him from day-1! I just keep thinking how great having Britt and Washington on the Outside and Shipley as the 3rd reciever, He could be the best Slot reciever we've ever had.

If you haven't watched the clip here it is... http://www.tennessean.com/apps/pbcs.dll/section?Category=SPORTS0102

[ryangm2123]

it always scares me to think that the decisions made in the next 72 hours will decide the fate of the franchise over the present future

[TTP77]

Unless we can make some trades and get an additional pick in the second round our first rounder has a ton of expectations.

[TTP77]

this is really good!!!

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/04/21/pre-draft-visits-recap-afc/

[TTP77]

Gosselin's final mock...

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/spt/stories/042210dnspogoosemock.3cacf47.html

[TTP77]

John McClain's final mock...

http://blogs.chron.com/nfl/2010/04/final_mock_draft_texans_focus.html

[Titanico]

it always scares me to think that the decisions made in the next 72 hours will decide the fate of the franchise over the present future

LOL...

It scares me to have Jeff Fisher as our HC!! You never know what things he's up to.

[TTP77]

i know we hate the Jags and all that but this was a good piece I found on PK's blog about their first round pick.

http://espn.go.com/blog/afcsouth/post/_/id/11110/60-minutes-more-alualu-insight

[Southside Tirant]

Hey TTP77... Do you want to start the 2011 Draft thread? There's already the Mock draft posted on ESPN.Com.

[TTP77]

I'll let you do it...:)

It just makes me sad to see mocks when we might not have a season :(