Just a few thoughts about how the 2013 NFL Draft went:
- I still have no idea what the Bills were doing taking EJ Manuel over Ryan Nassib. The only reason Marrone has a NFL head coaching job is because of Nassib's play. I, like some others, think that Manuel is a project, and the Bills can't afford to wait for him if they want to compete. It isn't like Kevin Kolb and Tavares Jackson are the best QBs in the world. Nassib could have stepped right into a system that he already knows and has played in for 4 years. Of course, we found out later than Bills' Hall of Famer Bruce Smith is Manuel's godfather, so some strings could have been pulled there.
- Ryan Nassib now gets to backup Eli Manning. The Giants had a weird draft. It was as if they wanted me to start rooting for them. Very happy for Cuse's Justin Pugh going #19 overall. If Eli goes down, Nassib will be ready to go.
- Tyrann Mathieu got drafted. If I'm the Cardinals, I give him one chance. Bill Polian said he wouldn't draft a guy with character issues like Mathieu. He was a 6-time Executive of the Year. I'd trust him.
- I think the Rams had the best draft. Just from top to bottom, it was great. The Bengals, Ravens and Vikings did well also.
- I thought the Skins did an OK job. Drafting a corner and two safeties was smart. However, even though I know Mike Shanahan is a RB guru, I don't think it was necessary to draft two running backs when we still have Alfred Morris.
- Manti Te'o to the Chargers was perfect. He will stay away from the East Coast media, and gets a chance to play along some solid linebackers. I think he will fit very well in the team and the community.
- I'm not entirely sure why the Eagles took Matt Barkley, unless Chip Kelly is completely redoing his offense, but the fact that he was available in the 4th round makes him a steal.
- Sorry, Geno Smith. Learn everything you can from David Garrard, and wait until your contract with the Jets is up, or until they fire Rex.
- Eric Fisher was the #1 pick. Central Michigan. Crazy.
- My boy AJ Francis was not drafted, which baffles me. However, he did sign with the Dolphins yesterday, so its all good. Congrats AJ!
Time for OTA's and some more free agency. Only a few months til preseason starts!
Monday, April 29, 2013
Thursday, April 25, 2013
JFLANland's 2013 NFL Mock Draft: Round 4!
After all, it's only one more sleep til Draft Night! WOOOOOOO! So close. Here is my final installment of my mock draft, since I have been busy the past few nights. 4th Round action.
A special shout out, by the way, to my boy and good friend AJ Francis. AJ is a defensive tackle from the University of Maryland. I believe he will hear his name called at some point this weekend, unless it happens during a commercial break. I know of no kinder, more genuine, and more likable man than AJ. He's a gem, and any team that drafts him is immediately getting a quality young man that can have a positive impact on their franchise. He is projected in the 5th Round, but he'd be a steal there. And you know I don't care for the Terps much, so he must be pretty special.
Anyway, here is Round 4:
1 (98). Jacksonville Jaguars- BW Webb, CB, William & Mary
2 (99). Kansas City Chiefs- Jordan Hill, DT, Penn State
3 (100). Oakland Raiders- Hugh Thornton, OG, Illinois
4 (101). Philadelphia Eagles- Markus Wheaton, WR, Oregon State
5 (102). Minnesota Vikings- Duke Williams, S, Nevada
6 (103). Arizona Cardinals- DaVonte Holloman, OLB, South Carolina
7 (104). Cleveland Browns- Dwayne Gratz, CB, UConn
8 (105). Buffalo Bills- Oday Aboushi, OG, Virginia
9 (106). New York Jets- John Simon, DE/OLB, Ohio State
10 (107). Tennessee Titans- Da'Rick Rogers, WR, Tennessee
11 (108). Carolina Panthers- Josh Boyce, WR, TCU
12 (109). New Orleans Saints- Kayvon Webster, CB, USF
13 (110). San Diego Chargers- Xavier Nixon, OT, Florida State
14 (111). Miami Dolphins- Jordan Poyer, CB, Oregon State
15 (112). Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Nicholas Williams, DT, Samford
16 (113). St. Louis Rams- Ryan Swope, WR, Texas A&M
17 (114). Dallas Cowboys- Barret Hones, OC/G/T, Alabama
18 (115). Pittsburgh Steelers- Ricky Wagner, OT, Wisconsin
19 (116). New York Giants- Christine Michael, RB, Texas A&M
20 (117). Chicago Bears- Jeff Baca, OG, UCLA
21 (118). Cincinnati Bengals-Christ Harper, WR, Kansas State
22 (119). Washington Redskins- Jonathan Bostic, ILB, Florida
23 (120). Minnesota Vikings- Landry Jones, QB, Oklahoma
24 (121). Indianapolis Colts- Giovani Bernard, RB, UNC
25 (122). Green Bay Packers- Chase Thomas, OLB, Stanford
26 (123). Seattle Seahawks- David Amerson, CB, NC State
27 (124). Houston Texans- Sean Porter, OLB, Texas A&M
28 (125). Denver Broncos- JJ Wilcox, S, Georgia Southern
29 (126). Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Denard Robinson, WR/QB, Michigan
30 (127). Atlanta Falcons- Earl Watford, OG, James Madison
31 (128). San Francisco 49ers- Tyler Bray, QB, Tennessee Titans
32 (129). Baltimore Ravens- Jordan Mills, OT, Louisiana Tech
33 (130). Baltimore Ravens- Marquess Wilson, WR, Washington State
34 (131). San Francisco 49ers- Marquise Goodwin, WR, Texas
35 (132). Detroit Lions- Steve Williams, CB, California
36 (133). Atlanta Falcons- Nico Johnson, ILB, Alabama
That's all I got for this year, kids. Enjoy the Draft. I hope your team takes all the players you think they need. Here's to Mel Kiper's hair!
A special shout out, by the way, to my boy and good friend AJ Francis. AJ is a defensive tackle from the University of Maryland. I believe he will hear his name called at some point this weekend, unless it happens during a commercial break. I know of no kinder, more genuine, and more likable man than AJ. He's a gem, and any team that drafts him is immediately getting a quality young man that can have a positive impact on their franchise. He is projected in the 5th Round, but he'd be a steal there. And you know I don't care for the Terps much, so he must be pretty special.
Anyway, here is Round 4:
1 (98). Jacksonville Jaguars- BW Webb, CB, William & Mary
2 (99). Kansas City Chiefs- Jordan Hill, DT, Penn State
3 (100). Oakland Raiders- Hugh Thornton, OG, Illinois
4 (101). Philadelphia Eagles- Markus Wheaton, WR, Oregon State
5 (102). Minnesota Vikings- Duke Williams, S, Nevada
6 (103). Arizona Cardinals- DaVonte Holloman, OLB, South Carolina
7 (104). Cleveland Browns- Dwayne Gratz, CB, UConn
8 (105). Buffalo Bills- Oday Aboushi, OG, Virginia
9 (106). New York Jets- John Simon, DE/OLB, Ohio State
10 (107). Tennessee Titans- Da'Rick Rogers, WR, Tennessee
11 (108). Carolina Panthers- Josh Boyce, WR, TCU
12 (109). New Orleans Saints- Kayvon Webster, CB, USF
13 (110). San Diego Chargers- Xavier Nixon, OT, Florida State
14 (111). Miami Dolphins- Jordan Poyer, CB, Oregon State
15 (112). Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Nicholas Williams, DT, Samford
16 (113). St. Louis Rams- Ryan Swope, WR, Texas A&M
17 (114). Dallas Cowboys- Barret Hones, OC/G/T, Alabama
18 (115). Pittsburgh Steelers- Ricky Wagner, OT, Wisconsin
19 (116). New York Giants- Christine Michael, RB, Texas A&M
20 (117). Chicago Bears- Jeff Baca, OG, UCLA
21 (118). Cincinnati Bengals-Christ Harper, WR, Kansas State
22 (119). Washington Redskins- Jonathan Bostic, ILB, Florida
23 (120). Minnesota Vikings- Landry Jones, QB, Oklahoma
24 (121). Indianapolis Colts- Giovani Bernard, RB, UNC
25 (122). Green Bay Packers- Chase Thomas, OLB, Stanford
26 (123). Seattle Seahawks- David Amerson, CB, NC State
27 (124). Houston Texans- Sean Porter, OLB, Texas A&M
28 (125). Denver Broncos- JJ Wilcox, S, Georgia Southern
29 (126). Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Denard Robinson, WR/QB, Michigan
30 (127). Atlanta Falcons- Earl Watford, OG, James Madison
31 (128). San Francisco 49ers- Tyler Bray, QB, Tennessee Titans
32 (129). Baltimore Ravens- Jordan Mills, OT, Louisiana Tech
33 (130). Baltimore Ravens- Marquess Wilson, WR, Washington State
34 (131). San Francisco 49ers- Marquise Goodwin, WR, Texas
35 (132). Detroit Lions- Steve Williams, CB, California
36 (133). Atlanta Falcons- Nico Johnson, ILB, Alabama
That's all I got for this year, kids. Enjoy the Draft. I hope your team takes all the players you think they need. Here's to Mel Kiper's hair!
Sunday, April 21, 2013
JFLANland's 2013 NFL Mock Draft: Round 3!
Time for Round 3. Still some teams with big needs out there. Who will your team take?
1 (63). Kansas City Chiefs- Arthur Brown, OLB, Kansas State
2 (64). Jacksonville Jaguars- Brandon Williams, DT, Mizzouri-Southern State
3 (65). Detroit Lions- Terrence Williams, WR, Baylor
4 (66). Oakland Raiders- Damontre Moore, DE, Texas A&M
5 (67). Philadelphia Eagles- Tyrann Mathieu, CB, LSU
6 (68). Cleveland Browns- Tyler Wilson, QB, Arkansas
Brandon Weeden and Jason Campbell need some more competition.
7 (69). Arizona Cardinals- Mike Glennon, QB, NC State
The heir-apparent after Carson Palmer runs his course?
8 (70). Tennessee Titans- Stedman Baily, WR, West Virginia
9 (71). Buffalo Bills- Kevin Reddick, ILB, UNC
10 (72). New York Jets- David Bakhtiari, OT, Colorado
11 (73). Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Travis Kelce, TE, Cincinnati
12 (74). San Francisco 49ers- Khaseem Greene, OLB, Rutgers
13 (75). New Orleans Saints- Johnathan Hankins, DT, Ohio State
14 (76). San Diego Chargers- Robert Alford, CB, SE Louisiana
15 (77). Miami Dolphins- Dallas Thomas, OG/T, Tennessee
16 (78). St. Louis Rams- Travis Frederick, C/G, Wisconsin
17 (79). Pittsburgh Steelers- Jamie Collins, OLB, Southern Mississippi
18 (80). Dallas Cowboys- David Quessenberry, OT, San Jose State
19 (81). New York Giants- Brennan Williams, OT, UNC
20 (82). Miami Dolphins- Vance McDonald, TE, Rice
21 (83). Minnesota Vikings- Logan Ryan, CB, Rutgers
22 (84). Cincinnati Bengals- Brian Schwenke, C/G, California
23 (85). Washington Redskins- Shamarko Thomas, S, Syracuse
24 (86). Indianapolis Colts- Alex Okafor, DE, Texas
25 (87). Seattle Seahawks- Brandon Jenkins, OLB, Florida State
26 (88). Green Bay Packers- Akeem Spence, DT, Illinois
27 (89). Houston Texans- Phillip Thomas, S, Fresno State
28 (90). Denver Broncos- Marcus Lattimore, RB, South Carolina
Lattimore is the most talented back in the draft, and would be a 1st Round pick if he didn't have an injury history. The Broncos need help in the running game.
29 (91). New England Patriots- William Gholston, DE, Michigan State
30 (92). Atlanta Falcons- Jordan Reed, TE, Florida
31 (93). San Francisco 49ers- Aaron Dobson, WR, Marshall
32 (94). Baltimore Ravens- Quinton Patton, WR, Louisiana Tech
33 (95). Houston Texans- Kiko Alonso, ILB, Oregon
34 (96). Kansas City Chiefs- Bennie Logan, DT, LSU
35 (97). Tennessee Titans- Bacarri Rambo, S, Georgia
Round 4 and maybe more coming soon!
JFLANland's 2013 NFL Mock Draft: Round 2!
And here we go with Round 2 of the 2013 NFL Mock Draft! I will have a little bit less analysis in these rounds, only stopping to explain some of the bigger picks. Enjoy!
1 (33). Jacksonville Jaguars- EJ Manuel, QB, Florida State
They need more QB competition. Manuel finally brings this team a QB from a Florida school. That should help sell tickets, which the Jags need to start doing if they want to keep the team in Jacksonville.
2 (34). San Francisco 49ers- John Cyprien, S, Florida International
3 (35). Philadelphia Eagles- Kyle Long, OL, Oregon
4 (36). Detroit Lions- Bjoern Werner, DE, Florida State
5 (37). Cincinnati Bengals- Robert Woods, WR, USC
6 (38). Arizona Cardinals- Zach Ertz, TE, Stanford
7 (39). New York Jets- Matt Barkley, QB, USC
Yes, the Jets take another USC quarterback. Barkley would have been a Top 10 pick if he had come out in 2012. Anyone is better than Sanchez at this point.
8 (40). Tennessee Titans- Larry Warford, OG, Kentucky
9 (41). Buffalo Bills- Justin Hunter, WR, Tennessee
10 (42). Miami Dolphins- Terron Armstead, OT, Arkansas Pine Bluff
11 (43). Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Tank Carradine, DE, Florida State
12 (44). Carolina Panthers- DJ Hayden, CB, Houston
13 (45). San Diego Chargers- Jamar Taylor, CB, Boise State
14 (46). St. Louis Rams- DJ Swearinger, S, South Carolina
15 (47). Dallas Cowboys- Johnathan Jenkins, DT, Georgia
16 (48). Pittsburgh Steelers- Montee Ball, RB, Wisconsin
17 (49). New York Giants- Johnathan Banks, CB, Mississippi State
18 (50). Chicago Bears- Sio Moore, LB, UConn
19 (51). Washington Redskins- Blidi Wreh-Wilson, CB, UConn
The Redskins' first pick needs to be in the secondary. Wreh-Wilson could be a first round pick, and is an upgrade over Josh Wilson and DeAngelo Hall at this point.
20 (52). Minnesota Vikings- Kawann Short, DT, Purdue
21 (53). Cincinnati Bengals- Andre Ellington, RB, Clemson
22 (54). Miami Dolphins- Brian Winters, OG, Kent State
23 (55). Green Bay Packers- Le'Veon Bell, RB, Michigan State
The Packers need a solid running game to balance out Aaron Rodger's prolific passing attack. If Eddie Lacy isn't the pick in the 1st Round, Bell is a type of strong power runner that can grind a defense down.
24 (56). Seattle Seahawks- Jesse Williams, DT, Alabama
The middle of the D-Line might be the only hole the Seahawks have coming into this season. The D gets stronger.
25 (57). Houston Texans- DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Clemson
26 (58). Denver Broncos- Margus Hunt, DE, SMU
Remember this man. He is 6'8, 277. An absolute monster, and World Junior Champion in both the shot-put and discus.
27 (59). New England Patriots- Darius Slay, CB, Mississippi State
28 (60). Atlanta Falcons- Sam Montgomery, DE, LSU
29 (61). San Francisco 49ers- Gavin Escobar, TE, San Diego State
30 (62). Baltimore Ravens- Eric Reid, S, LSU
The Ravens lost Ed Reed. So they replace him with Eric Reid. The names are almost the same, and Charm City will hope that the play is the same too.
Round 3 coming soon!
1 (33). Jacksonville Jaguars- EJ Manuel, QB, Florida State
They need more QB competition. Manuel finally brings this team a QB from a Florida school. That should help sell tickets, which the Jags need to start doing if they want to keep the team in Jacksonville.
2 (34). San Francisco 49ers- John Cyprien, S, Florida International
3 (35). Philadelphia Eagles- Kyle Long, OL, Oregon
4 (36). Detroit Lions- Bjoern Werner, DE, Florida State
5 (37). Cincinnati Bengals- Robert Woods, WR, USC
6 (38). Arizona Cardinals- Zach Ertz, TE, Stanford
7 (39). New York Jets- Matt Barkley, QB, USC
Yes, the Jets take another USC quarterback. Barkley would have been a Top 10 pick if he had come out in 2012. Anyone is better than Sanchez at this point.
8 (40). Tennessee Titans- Larry Warford, OG, Kentucky
9 (41). Buffalo Bills- Justin Hunter, WR, Tennessee
10 (42). Miami Dolphins- Terron Armstead, OT, Arkansas Pine Bluff
11 (43). Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Tank Carradine, DE, Florida State
12 (44). Carolina Panthers- DJ Hayden, CB, Houston
13 (45). San Diego Chargers- Jamar Taylor, CB, Boise State
14 (46). St. Louis Rams- DJ Swearinger, S, South Carolina
15 (47). Dallas Cowboys- Johnathan Jenkins, DT, Georgia
16 (48). Pittsburgh Steelers- Montee Ball, RB, Wisconsin
17 (49). New York Giants- Johnathan Banks, CB, Mississippi State
18 (50). Chicago Bears- Sio Moore, LB, UConn
19 (51). Washington Redskins- Blidi Wreh-Wilson, CB, UConn
The Redskins' first pick needs to be in the secondary. Wreh-Wilson could be a first round pick, and is an upgrade over Josh Wilson and DeAngelo Hall at this point.
20 (52). Minnesota Vikings- Kawann Short, DT, Purdue
21 (53). Cincinnati Bengals- Andre Ellington, RB, Clemson
22 (54). Miami Dolphins- Brian Winters, OG, Kent State
23 (55). Green Bay Packers- Le'Veon Bell, RB, Michigan State
The Packers need a solid running game to balance out Aaron Rodger's prolific passing attack. If Eddie Lacy isn't the pick in the 1st Round, Bell is a type of strong power runner that can grind a defense down.
24 (56). Seattle Seahawks- Jesse Williams, DT, Alabama
The middle of the D-Line might be the only hole the Seahawks have coming into this season. The D gets stronger.
25 (57). Houston Texans- DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Clemson
26 (58). Denver Broncos- Margus Hunt, DE, SMU
Remember this man. He is 6'8, 277. An absolute monster, and World Junior Champion in both the shot-put and discus.
27 (59). New England Patriots- Darius Slay, CB, Mississippi State
28 (60). Atlanta Falcons- Sam Montgomery, DE, LSU
29 (61). San Francisco 49ers- Gavin Escobar, TE, San Diego State
30 (62). Baltimore Ravens- Eric Reid, S, LSU
The Ravens lost Ed Reed. So they replace him with Eric Reid. The names are almost the same, and Charm City will hope that the play is the same too.
Round 3 coming soon!
Saturday, April 20, 2013
JFLANland's 2013 NFL Mock Draft: Round 1!
It's the most wonderful tiiiiiiime of the yeeeeaar. That's right kids, it's officially Draft Week! The week when all of us that are far too obsessed with both NCAA and NFL football tune in to watch Mel "My hair is ALWAYS perfect" Kiper Jr. et al, tell us where the stars (and busts) of tomorrow will be playing football next season. Here are my projections for Round 1. Note: I don't project any trades in my draft, because it would be too difficult to keep track of it. I am drafting as the order stands today, (updated) April 21st. If anything changes, I may update it. Away we go! The Kansas City Chiefs are now on the clock.
1. Kansas City Chiefs: Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M
The Chiefs got their new coach in Andy Reid. They have their new QB in Alex Smith. They need to protect their investment, and that is why Joeckel is the pick. He is projected to be the best OT in the draft, so its a no-brainer pick for a team that needs steady QB play.
2. Jacksonville Jaguars- Dion Jordan, OLB, Oregon
Dion is a freak. He is 6'6" and super athletic. The Jags need... well... everything. There are QBs on the board, and other defensive needs, but I don't think they can turn down a guy who could be the next Julius Peppers. He's a little raw, so they need to make sure they develop him. If that scares him away, Dee Milliner may have to be the pick.
3. Oakland Raiders- Sharrif Floyd, DT, Florida
Like the Jags, the Raiders need a bit of everything. They play in a division with Peyton Manning, Phillip Rivers, and now Alex Smith in Andy Reid's "I refuse to run the ball more than 15 times" offense. They need a D-lineman who can occupy a double team and free their pass-rushers.
4. Philadelphia Eagles- Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia
If Chip Kelly thinks he can last more than 2 seasons by bringing back an injury-prone QB to run his offense, he is insane. Geno is the #1 rated QB in the draft, was a three year starter, and has all the ability to fit into Chip Kelly's offense. This also means that Nick Foles' days in Philly might be numbered. Don't be surprised if the Eagles trade Foles, since Dennis Dixon and Geno Smith would make Foles' expendable.
5. Detroit Lions- Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan
The rumor is that the Lions really want Dee Milliner. They may even trade up to #1 to get him. I just don't think that corner is their biggest need. Instead, they need to make sure Matthew Stafford stays upright and healthy the entire season. Eric Fisher is almost an equal to Joeckel, plus he played close by. He is the right pick to play in Ford Field.
6. Cleveland Browns- Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama
I don't think Cleveland needs to give up on Brandon Weeden just yet. Also, they have picked up Jason Campbell, who is a capable starter for a rebuilding team. The real key for the Browns is adding help up front. Warmack is (possibly) the best player in the draft. While guard isn't a sexy position, he fits a giant need for a team looking to ride Trent Richardson to relevance.
7. Arizona Cardinals- Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma
This is a deep yet top-heavy offensive line draft. Lane Johnson fits the biggest need the Cardinals have now that Carson Palmer is under center. Keep the QB standing, he will have more time to get the ball to Larry Fitzgerald.
8. Buffalo Bills- Ryan Nassib, QB, Syracuse
And here we go. The Bills decided to take my alma mater's head coach and offensive coordinator. Now, they can take my QB also. Obviously, this is a bit high for Nassib, but there is no guarantee that he will be around in the 2nd Round for Buffalo. They reach a bit and fill their biggest need with a QB who is familiar with the Marrone system.
9. New York Jets- Dee Milliner, CB, Alabama
The Jets just traded away Darelle Revis. Their biggest need instantly becomes a shut down CB. Milliner is apparently the next Revis, and without the contract complaints or injuries. He should be able to start on Day 1.
10. Tennessee Titans- Ezekiel Ansah, DE, BYU
Some may say that the Titans get a steal with a guy who could be the #3 pick to the Raiders at #10. I'm not completely sold on Ansah, who is already 24 and only had one good year at BYU. Still, he fits a big need for the Titans, and was a machine at the Combine.
11. San Diego Chargers- Johnathan Cooper, OG, North Carolina
The Charger's O-line was awful. They had no running game at all. Rivers is looking worse and worse every season, and can no longer be considered an elite QB. They need to take the best offensive lineman available, and that's Cooper.
12. Miami Dolphins- Barkevious Mingo, DE, LSU
Mingo, aside from having the best name in the draft, is also one of the most consistent prospects in the draft. The Dolphins need O-Line help also with Jake Long moving on, but they can't pass on a top SEC-tested talent like Mingo falling to #12.
13. New York Jets- Star Lotulelei, DT, Utah
The Jets get this pick in exchange for Revis. Lotulelei is a Top 5 talent, and at #13 is a steal. The only flaw for Lotulelei is an apparent heart condition, but the word is it won't affect his play. They can plug him into the middle of that D-line, and really get after Tom Brady.
14. Carolina Panthers- Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri
The Panthers couldn't really stop anyone last season. Their defense needs that force inside. Richardson provides explosive and disruptive play that can free the outside rushers and linebackers.
15. New Orleans Saints- DJ Fluker, OT, Alabama
The only reason that the Saints are any good is that they have Drew Brees under center. They need to protect him. Fluker is the prototypical right tackle, and he has improved every year he's played. This seems like a no-brainer to me with who is left on the board.
16. St. Louis Rams- Tavon Austin, WR, West Virginia
The worst-kept secret in the draft is that the Rams want Tavon Austin. He falls to them, and so they snatch him up.
17. Pittsburgh Steelers- Cordelle Patterson, WR, Tennessee
They lost Mike Wallace to the Dolphins, and need to replace him somehow. Patterson is the 2nd or 3rd best WR in the draft, but doesn't have the injury red flag that Keenan Allen has. They say that he may lack some maturity and an ideal fit would be a team with good leadership. That sound like the Steelers to me.
18. Dallas Cowboys- Kenny Vaccaro, S, Texas
The Cowboys haven't had a good safety since the early days of Roy Williams (who couldn't cover that well anyway). While they need offensive line help more, Vaccaro being available here means that they have to take the top safety in the draft.
19. New York Giants- Jarvis Jones, OLB, Georgia
I remember at the end of the NCAA season that Jones was talked about as a top 10 pick. While some have cooled on him, I think that he'd be a great fit for the G-Men's defense. He is that type of hybrid defender that fits into their NASCAR package along with Tuck and Pierre-Paul.
20. Chicago Bears- Tyler Eifert, TE, Notre Dame
The Bears' new coach, Marc Trestman, comes from coaching in the CFL. He is all about offense. Jay Cutler needs more weapons, and Eifert is a huge, athletic and productive target from just down the road in South Bend. He's a great fit for the Bears, and gives them weapons besides Forte, Marshall and (occasionally) Hester.
21. Cincinnati Bengals- Matt Elam, S, Florida
Corner isn't a big need for the Bengals, but safety is. Matt Elam is the next one up after Vaccaro. The Bengals' D continues to hold its own in a division with Baltimore and Pittsburgh.
22. St. Louis Rams- Eddie Lacy, RB, Alabama
This pick would belong to the Redskins, but was traded in the RG3 deal. Stephen Jackson isn't in St. Louis anymore, so they need a new halfback behind Sam Bradford. While there is no consensus on who the best RB in the draft is, it looks like Lacy is starting to turn the most heads.
23. Minnesota Vikings- Alec Ogletree, ILB, Georgia
The Vikings need help on both offense and defense. I think that Ogletree fits their biggest need, middle linebacker. He's a better athlete than Manti Te'o and doesn't have the celebrity baggage. He does have some off-the-field issues of his own, but that is why he has fallen to #23.
24. Indianapolis Colts- Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State
Last year's draft was dedicated entirely to overhauling the Colts' offense in the wake of Peyton Manning's departure They did a wonderful job, and Andrew Luck guided them to the playoffs. Now, they have to work on their defense, starting with cornerback. Rhodes is the best available, so he's the pick.
25. Minnesota Vikings- Keenan Allen, WR, California
Yes, the Vikings got Greg Jennings. They also lost Percy Harvin. They need more weapons on offense not named Peterson. Keenan Allen has only fallen because of issues with his ankle. If he can get 100% healthy, his ability makes him a steal this late in the 1st round.
26. Green Bay Packers- Justin Pugh, OT/G, Syracuse
Another Orangeman in the 1st round! Justin Pugh is a versatile lineman that can play every position though I do think he is best-suited at tackle. The scouts say that his arms are too short, but they are just as long as Joe Thomas', and he is a Pro Bowl player. Protect your franchise QB, and you will go far. Pugh can do that for Aaron Rodgers.
27. Houston Texans- Menolik Watson, OT, Florida State
Its a bit of a reach, but the Texans need help up front to make sure Matt Schaub stays healthy. Watson is an athletic right tackle who would fit well in the zone-blocking scheme the Texans have used since Day 1.
28. Denver Broncos- Manti Te'o, MLB, Notre Dame
There are a few teams that could deal well with the kind of baggage that Te'o is bringing with him to the NFL. The Broncos are one of those teams. They survived Tim Tebow and are now lead by the face of the NFL, Peyton Manning. Von Miller and Champ Bailey (and Dwight Freeney once they sign him) can help tutor Te'o on the ways of the NFL, and he would be away from the East Coast media. It is the best fit for him, and fills a big need.
29. New England Patriots- Sylvester Williams, DT, North Carolina
A big body DT to put next to Vince Wilfork, who is getting older every day. Williams can learn from one of the best, and could cause enough co-havoc inside that the pass rushers like Chandler Jones could eat opposing QBs alive.
30. Atlanta Falcons- Desmond Trufant, CB, Washington
Marcus' little brother already has an NFL pedigree. The Falcons don't have that many holes, so they are able to take the best player available that fits a need.
31. San Francisco 49ers- Datone Jones, DE/DT, UCLA
Jones is a versatile D-lineman who can play almost any position up front. He can plug into the best defense in football wherever they need him. The rich get richer.
32. Baltimore Ravens- Kevin Minter, MLB, LSU
The Ravens have a very big hole at middle linebacker now that Ray Lewis is gone, and with Jameel McClain coming back from injury. Kevin Minter is SEC-tested and can help fill that giant gap Lewis has left behind.
Rounds 2 and 3 are on the way. Maybe I will even go to Round 4 or 5! Anyway, enjoy, and count down the hours til the DRAFT!
1. Kansas City Chiefs: Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M
The Chiefs got their new coach in Andy Reid. They have their new QB in Alex Smith. They need to protect their investment, and that is why Joeckel is the pick. He is projected to be the best OT in the draft, so its a no-brainer pick for a team that needs steady QB play.
2. Jacksonville Jaguars- Dion Jordan, OLB, Oregon
Dion is a freak. He is 6'6" and super athletic. The Jags need... well... everything. There are QBs on the board, and other defensive needs, but I don't think they can turn down a guy who could be the next Julius Peppers. He's a little raw, so they need to make sure they develop him. If that scares him away, Dee Milliner may have to be the pick.
3. Oakland Raiders- Sharrif Floyd, DT, Florida
Like the Jags, the Raiders need a bit of everything. They play in a division with Peyton Manning, Phillip Rivers, and now Alex Smith in Andy Reid's "I refuse to run the ball more than 15 times" offense. They need a D-lineman who can occupy a double team and free their pass-rushers.
4. Philadelphia Eagles- Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia
If Chip Kelly thinks he can last more than 2 seasons by bringing back an injury-prone QB to run his offense, he is insane. Geno is the #1 rated QB in the draft, was a three year starter, and has all the ability to fit into Chip Kelly's offense. This also means that Nick Foles' days in Philly might be numbered. Don't be surprised if the Eagles trade Foles, since Dennis Dixon and Geno Smith would make Foles' expendable.
5. Detroit Lions- Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan
The rumor is that the Lions really want Dee Milliner. They may even trade up to #1 to get him. I just don't think that corner is their biggest need. Instead, they need to make sure Matthew Stafford stays upright and healthy the entire season. Eric Fisher is almost an equal to Joeckel, plus he played close by. He is the right pick to play in Ford Field.
6. Cleveland Browns- Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama
I don't think Cleveland needs to give up on Brandon Weeden just yet. Also, they have picked up Jason Campbell, who is a capable starter for a rebuilding team. The real key for the Browns is adding help up front. Warmack is (possibly) the best player in the draft. While guard isn't a sexy position, he fits a giant need for a team looking to ride Trent Richardson to relevance.
7. Arizona Cardinals- Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma
This is a deep yet top-heavy offensive line draft. Lane Johnson fits the biggest need the Cardinals have now that Carson Palmer is under center. Keep the QB standing, he will have more time to get the ball to Larry Fitzgerald.
8. Buffalo Bills- Ryan Nassib, QB, Syracuse
And here we go. The Bills decided to take my alma mater's head coach and offensive coordinator. Now, they can take my QB also. Obviously, this is a bit high for Nassib, but there is no guarantee that he will be around in the 2nd Round for Buffalo. They reach a bit and fill their biggest need with a QB who is familiar with the Marrone system.
9. New York Jets- Dee Milliner, CB, Alabama
The Jets just traded away Darelle Revis. Their biggest need instantly becomes a shut down CB. Milliner is apparently the next Revis, and without the contract complaints or injuries. He should be able to start on Day 1.
10. Tennessee Titans- Ezekiel Ansah, DE, BYU
Some may say that the Titans get a steal with a guy who could be the #3 pick to the Raiders at #10. I'm not completely sold on Ansah, who is already 24 and only had one good year at BYU. Still, he fits a big need for the Titans, and was a machine at the Combine.
11. San Diego Chargers- Johnathan Cooper, OG, North Carolina
The Charger's O-line was awful. They had no running game at all. Rivers is looking worse and worse every season, and can no longer be considered an elite QB. They need to take the best offensive lineman available, and that's Cooper.
12. Miami Dolphins- Barkevious Mingo, DE, LSU
Mingo, aside from having the best name in the draft, is also one of the most consistent prospects in the draft. The Dolphins need O-Line help also with Jake Long moving on, but they can't pass on a top SEC-tested talent like Mingo falling to #12.
13. New York Jets- Star Lotulelei, DT, Utah
The Jets get this pick in exchange for Revis. Lotulelei is a Top 5 talent, and at #13 is a steal. The only flaw for Lotulelei is an apparent heart condition, but the word is it won't affect his play. They can plug him into the middle of that D-line, and really get after Tom Brady.
14. Carolina Panthers- Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri
The Panthers couldn't really stop anyone last season. Their defense needs that force inside. Richardson provides explosive and disruptive play that can free the outside rushers and linebackers.
15. New Orleans Saints- DJ Fluker, OT, Alabama
The only reason that the Saints are any good is that they have Drew Brees under center. They need to protect him. Fluker is the prototypical right tackle, and he has improved every year he's played. This seems like a no-brainer to me with who is left on the board.
16. St. Louis Rams- Tavon Austin, WR, West Virginia
The worst-kept secret in the draft is that the Rams want Tavon Austin. He falls to them, and so they snatch him up.
17. Pittsburgh Steelers- Cordelle Patterson, WR, Tennessee
They lost Mike Wallace to the Dolphins, and need to replace him somehow. Patterson is the 2nd or 3rd best WR in the draft, but doesn't have the injury red flag that Keenan Allen has. They say that he may lack some maturity and an ideal fit would be a team with good leadership. That sound like the Steelers to me.
18. Dallas Cowboys- Kenny Vaccaro, S, Texas
The Cowboys haven't had a good safety since the early days of Roy Williams (who couldn't cover that well anyway). While they need offensive line help more, Vaccaro being available here means that they have to take the top safety in the draft.
19. New York Giants- Jarvis Jones, OLB, Georgia
I remember at the end of the NCAA season that Jones was talked about as a top 10 pick. While some have cooled on him, I think that he'd be a great fit for the G-Men's defense. He is that type of hybrid defender that fits into their NASCAR package along with Tuck and Pierre-Paul.
20. Chicago Bears- Tyler Eifert, TE, Notre Dame
The Bears' new coach, Marc Trestman, comes from coaching in the CFL. He is all about offense. Jay Cutler needs more weapons, and Eifert is a huge, athletic and productive target from just down the road in South Bend. He's a great fit for the Bears, and gives them weapons besides Forte, Marshall and (occasionally) Hester.
21. Cincinnati Bengals- Matt Elam, S, Florida
Corner isn't a big need for the Bengals, but safety is. Matt Elam is the next one up after Vaccaro. The Bengals' D continues to hold its own in a division with Baltimore and Pittsburgh.
22. St. Louis Rams- Eddie Lacy, RB, Alabama
This pick would belong to the Redskins, but was traded in the RG3 deal. Stephen Jackson isn't in St. Louis anymore, so they need a new halfback behind Sam Bradford. While there is no consensus on who the best RB in the draft is, it looks like Lacy is starting to turn the most heads.
23. Minnesota Vikings- Alec Ogletree, ILB, Georgia
The Vikings need help on both offense and defense. I think that Ogletree fits their biggest need, middle linebacker. He's a better athlete than Manti Te'o and doesn't have the celebrity baggage. He does have some off-the-field issues of his own, but that is why he has fallen to #23.
24. Indianapolis Colts- Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State
Last year's draft was dedicated entirely to overhauling the Colts' offense in the wake of Peyton Manning's departure They did a wonderful job, and Andrew Luck guided them to the playoffs. Now, they have to work on their defense, starting with cornerback. Rhodes is the best available, so he's the pick.
25. Minnesota Vikings- Keenan Allen, WR, California
Yes, the Vikings got Greg Jennings. They also lost Percy Harvin. They need more weapons on offense not named Peterson. Keenan Allen has only fallen because of issues with his ankle. If he can get 100% healthy, his ability makes him a steal this late in the 1st round.
26. Green Bay Packers- Justin Pugh, OT/G, Syracuse
Another Orangeman in the 1st round! Justin Pugh is a versatile lineman that can play every position though I do think he is best-suited at tackle. The scouts say that his arms are too short, but they are just as long as Joe Thomas', and he is a Pro Bowl player. Protect your franchise QB, and you will go far. Pugh can do that for Aaron Rodgers.
27. Houston Texans- Menolik Watson, OT, Florida State
Its a bit of a reach, but the Texans need help up front to make sure Matt Schaub stays healthy. Watson is an athletic right tackle who would fit well in the zone-blocking scheme the Texans have used since Day 1.
28. Denver Broncos- Manti Te'o, MLB, Notre Dame
There are a few teams that could deal well with the kind of baggage that Te'o is bringing with him to the NFL. The Broncos are one of those teams. They survived Tim Tebow and are now lead by the face of the NFL, Peyton Manning. Von Miller and Champ Bailey (and Dwight Freeney once they sign him) can help tutor Te'o on the ways of the NFL, and he would be away from the East Coast media. It is the best fit for him, and fills a big need.
29. New England Patriots- Sylvester Williams, DT, North Carolina
A big body DT to put next to Vince Wilfork, who is getting older every day. Williams can learn from one of the best, and could cause enough co-havoc inside that the pass rushers like Chandler Jones could eat opposing QBs alive.
30. Atlanta Falcons- Desmond Trufant, CB, Washington
Marcus' little brother already has an NFL pedigree. The Falcons don't have that many holes, so they are able to take the best player available that fits a need.
31. San Francisco 49ers- Datone Jones, DE/DT, UCLA
Jones is a versatile D-lineman who can play almost any position up front. He can plug into the best defense in football wherever they need him. The rich get richer.
32. Baltimore Ravens- Kevin Minter, MLB, LSU
The Ravens have a very big hole at middle linebacker now that Ray Lewis is gone, and with Jameel McClain coming back from injury. Kevin Minter is SEC-tested and can help fill that giant gap Lewis has left behind.
Rounds 2 and 3 are on the way. Maybe I will even go to Round 4 or 5! Anyway, enjoy, and count down the hours til the DRAFT!
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Sports Can Bring Out The Best In Us: Honoring Boston
The heinous acts of terror and cowardice that occurred Monday at the Boston Marathon will not be forgotten any time soon (or probably ever). This is one of the few times I can remember where sports where not used to help heal the wounds felt after a tragedy, but were actually directly involved. The Marathon, after all, is a sporting event. But sports still stepped in and gave a helping hand to a city in need of support, and a country in need of hope. I give you the crowd at the Boston Bruins game:
Absolutely amazing stuff. I wish that Americans would sing the Anthem like this every game. It shouldn't take a tragedy for us to take care of one another or show that we love our country. Kudos to all those in the arena that night for demonstrating how inspiring the Star-Spangled Banner can be when US citizens sing it loud and proud. I implore the rest of you, sing the song at ballgames. Even if you sound like a creaky door-hinge with an angry cat stuck in it, sing. That's an order.
As if that wasn't enough, we then had the Yankees and their fans do something unthinkable under normal circumstances- They sang the Red Sox's adopted Neil Diamond song! I'll ignore for a second that Mr. Diamond (aka the Jewish Elvis) has a bunch of songs better than "Sweet Caroline", this was wonderful.
So, sports are still there when we need them. They help us remember and honor those lost and affected by tragedies. They help divert us from our grief, even if its just for a few hours. Sports help us, individually and as a country, start the healing process.
I love sports.
Hang in there Boston, we'll get the bastards.
Absolutely amazing stuff. I wish that Americans would sing the Anthem like this every game. It shouldn't take a tragedy for us to take care of one another or show that we love our country. Kudos to all those in the arena that night for demonstrating how inspiring the Star-Spangled Banner can be when US citizens sing it loud and proud. I implore the rest of you, sing the song at ballgames. Even if you sound like a creaky door-hinge with an angry cat stuck in it, sing. That's an order.
As if that wasn't enough, we then had the Yankees and their fans do something unthinkable under normal circumstances- They sang the Red Sox's adopted Neil Diamond song! I'll ignore for a second that Mr. Diamond (aka the Jewish Elvis) has a bunch of songs better than "Sweet Caroline", this was wonderful.
So, sports are still there when we need them. They help us remember and honor those lost and affected by tragedies. They help divert us from our grief, even if its just for a few hours. Sports help us, individually and as a country, start the healing process.
I love sports.
Hang in there Boston, we'll get the bastards.
So About Last... Month
Lots of stuff missed. Quick recap-
- Louisville won the NCAA Tournament. Good for them. I don't like Rick Pitino, he's a scumbag.
- Far more important, Syracuse went to the Final Four. I was lucky enough to see my Orange win live at the Verizon Center, taking Indiana and Marquette apart. Cutting down the nets to go to the Final Four IN GEORGETOWN'S BUILDING?! Awesome. Plus, I got to meet Derrick Coleman and Hakim Warrick. That was a good weekend.
- Baseball is back. I think the Nats will be contenders again, but the Braves look scary good, and we have some issues early on. Still early. I won't panic. I promise.
- Derek Jeter is out until the All Star break. Only Yankees fans are sad.
- The NBA's regular season is over, so only 5 months of playoffs left! I kid, of course. I suppose the biggest story from the NBA is that Kobe Bryant tore his Achilles and will miss the playoffs. Huge blow for ratings in a star-driven league. The real question is this: What if Dwight Howard leads the Lakers to the title without Kobe? What does that mean for Laker Land? Or the NBA?
- Hockey's regular season is coming to an end too. I am still nervous about the Caps, who have played themselves into the playoff picture and division title, but I could still see them letting it get away. Alexander Ovechkin, by the way, is still one of the best scorers in the history of this game (when he wants to be, I guess).
- Tiger didn't win the Masters. Adam Scott did. It was a great final round. That's all I got.
- Sergio will never win a major, will he? Damn, I like Sergio.
- The NFL Draft is coming up! I am amazingly excited, as always. Expect my Mock Draft up sometime this weekend. It's up to 3 rounds. I have to decide if I should go further.
More soon, and more often. I promise.
- Louisville won the NCAA Tournament. Good for them. I don't like Rick Pitino, he's a scumbag.
- Far more important, Syracuse went to the Final Four. I was lucky enough to see my Orange win live at the Verizon Center, taking Indiana and Marquette apart. Cutting down the nets to go to the Final Four IN GEORGETOWN'S BUILDING?! Awesome. Plus, I got to meet Derrick Coleman and Hakim Warrick. That was a good weekend.
- Baseball is back. I think the Nats will be contenders again, but the Braves look scary good, and we have some issues early on. Still early. I won't panic. I promise.
- Derek Jeter is out until the All Star break. Only Yankees fans are sad.
- The NBA's regular season is over, so only 5 months of playoffs left! I kid, of course. I suppose the biggest story from the NBA is that Kobe Bryant tore his Achilles and will miss the playoffs. Huge blow for ratings in a star-driven league. The real question is this: What if Dwight Howard leads the Lakers to the title without Kobe? What does that mean for Laker Land? Or the NBA?
- Hockey's regular season is coming to an end too. I am still nervous about the Caps, who have played themselves into the playoff picture and division title, but I could still see them letting it get away. Alexander Ovechkin, by the way, is still one of the best scorers in the history of this game (when he wants to be, I guess).
- Tiger didn't win the Masters. Adam Scott did. It was a great final round. That's all I got.
- Sergio will never win a major, will he? Damn, I like Sergio.
- The NFL Draft is coming up! I am amazingly excited, as always. Expect my Mock Draft up sometime this weekend. It's up to 3 rounds. I have to decide if I should go further.
More soon, and more often. I promise.
I know... I know..
Yes, I know. I have been gone for a while. But I was out of the country, then sick, then catching up at work, then spending my nights at Nationals Park again. So, I've been busy. I promise, more blogs are coming soon. Might even do one tonight. Also, I have been working on my official Mock NFL Draft, so keep an eye out for that some time this weekend or early next week!
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