I was never raised as an NBA fan.
My whole life, my mom raised me to appreciate the game of basketball because her dad (my grandfather) was a basketball coach. I was in youth leagues when I was a kid to learn the fundamentals, and I played a lot of pick up games when I was growing up. My parents took me to a couple games at the Coliseum in Morgantown, and even a U of R game when the mountaineers came to Richmond shortly we after we moved here in Chester. I was even born inside the holy triangle of college basketball- the area known as the "research triangle" between Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill which also features the two schools that make up the rivalry of college basketball.
But even with all that, I never truly followed the NBA at any point when I was a kid. I knew Michael Jordan was the closest thing to Zeus on the hardcourt in Chicago. As a teenager, I knew Kobe and Lebron were both serious contenders to follow Jordan's legacy. But that was about it.
It wasn't until I got to college and Da'Sean Butler got drafted by Miami that I honestly cared about what went on in the NBA. I threw my lot in with Miami the night I found out they had picked up Butler in the second round. Several weeks later, I found out Lebron James was teaming up with Wade (and "that other guy from Toronto"). Some of the best minds in the NBA would be mentoring my favorite player. When many others doubted their potential, I embraced it.
Of course, many of you that listen to my frequent complaints throughout the year know how this story ends. Mike Miller gets injured in preseason practice, and the Heat have to cut Da'Sean Butler after the final cuts had been made in order to make room for a replacement for Miller. Da'Sean eventually ended up with the Spurs, a team I already favored anyway. So it all worked out in the end. But I couldn't shake the feeling that the Heat were a Dynasty in the making.
Some said their superstar attitudes couldn't work. I said that some degree of humility would be prevail. Some said there would be no rings. I said 2 in the next 3 years, and 3 in the next 5. Some said LeBron James was a punk. I said... actually, I kind of thought LeBron was a punk for a while too.
But the fact remains the same. An actual army of people, led by Skip Bayless, Rick Reilly, and angry Cleveland residents, were actively hating on the team from Miami. Pick one of the multitude of reasons that were floating around out there, and that was surely why this superteam would never work. The big 3 wasnt born out of trust and good drafting, it was smashed together out of arrogance. Surely such a conglomoration can't work- at least, that's the storybook ending we would be read by our parents if this was a morality-teaching picture book from our childhood. Arrogance is bad. It doesn't lead to rewards.
And yet here the Miami Heat are, officially in the NBA finals. The regular season is over. Sometimes they sank, sometimes they swam. But regardless, they're here, and like the all-stars that they are, they have saved their best basketball for when it mattered most. They've gotten to the NBA final in- correct me if I'm wrong- 15 games? That's pretty rediculous, when you consider that they had to beat a scrappy Sixers team, a veteran C's team, and a MVP-led Bulls team.
Doc Rivers said it best. As the Heat had regained momentum in one game vs the Celtics pretty early on in the series, the sideline cameras panned over to Doc as he told his players "Remember what we talked about. Did you think I was kidding? You're not going to outathleticize them. You can't beat them at their own game." And he proved to be right. No team is more freakishly talented or athletic than the Heat, and now that they've finally figured out the winning formula (D-Wade and LeBron do their thing and take turns leading the team, while Bosh is just a really really really good role player. If a team decides to double guard James or Wade, or the PF pulls for help defense, then Bosh gets to make them pay with a nice stat line), the sky is the limit for this team. Can a team really play unselfish, extra pass basketball for 7 whole games? I don't know, but I do know what happens if no one is capable of doing so. Ironically, arrogance is what protects the ultimate team of arrogance.
So yeah. Keep fueling their fires, haters. I really do hate to say that I was right about the Heat. I want nothing more than a classic showdown, where the focus was the team and not the individual. I want Scotty Pippin and Jordan taking on whoever could challenge. But the Heat are elite, and they're here to stay. And the more the Skip Baylesses of the world hate, the more the talented ones in South Beach are going to rub it in your face.
Friday, May 27, 2011
Sunday, May 15, 2011
The Sixth Man: Heat vs Bulls
Hello and welcome, readers, to my newest recurring entry that I will henceforth refer to as The Sixth Man. This name is a tip of my hat to ESPN's 5v5 basketball segment which features five bloggers from around the internet answering five critical questions regarding notable basketball games or series around the nation. Since I'm unlikely to be asked to participate in ESPN's 5v5, I instead will offer my opinions on here regarding basketball games as the sixth man.
Today's 5v5 concerns the NBA's eastern conference finals- the Chicago Bulls at the Miami Heat.
1. Who will be the best player in the Miami-Chicago series?
Dwayne Wade. Derrick Rose is the rightful regular season MVP, and he has carried that excellence into the playoffs. However, Derrick Rose isn't the only superstar on the court. LeBron is always a monster (except... well, except when he isn't) and Chris Bosh has his moments. But I think Dwayne has been the spark plug, gasoline source, and accelator for the Heat in the playoffs so far, and I think his experience that Rose lacks along with his incredible talent pushes him over the top for MVP of the conference finals.
2. Which player will you watch most closely?
Carlos Boozer. Miami is a flat out more athletic team than Chicago, and that's saying a lot when your point guard is D-Rose. The 1-2 of Wade/James is, to a certain extent, pretty unstoppable; the best Chi-town can do is contain them. Carlos Boozer has to be on his defensive game and contain Chris Bosh. It's one thing if Dwayne and Lebron start lighting it up, but if Chris Bosh is firing on all cylinders too, this isn't even a fair series. The good news is that Bosh is a bit of a baby, and if Boozer comes out playing inspired in the first half, Bosh can easily get down on himself and shoot horribly as the game goes on. That puts more pressure on the Big 2, which could lead to some easy implosions. Boozer's offensive consistency should get a shout-out here too, as their front court often goes as he does.
3. What is the potentially fatal flaw for each team?
For Chicago, I think it's Derrick Rose. I know that seems counterintuitive, but when Chicago struggles offensively, Rose takes over the game. The problem is that Rose isn't a superhuman and is capable of playing almost as poorly as the rest of his team given the right (or wrong, if you're Chicago) circumstances. Rose loves to drive to the basket, and when you're playing a defense that can be as physically imposing and brutal as the Heat, that can take its tole over multiple games. Not to mention fatigue over the course of one game and foul trouble.
For Miami, this is the part where I'm supposed to say they're perimeter shooters have to play more consistently. While it's true the outside has to play well to open up the lanes, I think they will get enough to make it a non-issue. I think a bigger problem is Miami's ability to grab rebounds and limit Chicago's second chance points. The bulls badly outrebounded the heat in the regular season, and their control of the boards allowed them to dominate Miami in the regular season.
4. Chicago won 62 games and Miami 58. Is this the real NBA Finals?
I think a cruely efficient Mavs team might be offended by this question. Bulls-Heat might be the best remaining matchup, but don't get it twisted. The NBA finals do not occur in the month of May.
5. Who wins?
Chicago's run ends here. I said it throughout the entire calendar year of 2011- with rare exception, you can't win the NBA finals with a scoring point guard. Miami wins in 6 games and takes another big step to quiet all the haters.
Today's 5v5 concerns the NBA's eastern conference finals- the Chicago Bulls at the Miami Heat.
1. Who will be the best player in the Miami-Chicago series?
Dwayne Wade. Derrick Rose is the rightful regular season MVP, and he has carried that excellence into the playoffs. However, Derrick Rose isn't the only superstar on the court. LeBron is always a monster (except... well, except when he isn't) and Chris Bosh has his moments. But I think Dwayne has been the spark plug, gasoline source, and accelator for the Heat in the playoffs so far, and I think his experience that Rose lacks along with his incredible talent pushes him over the top for MVP of the conference finals.
2. Which player will you watch most closely?
Carlos Boozer. Miami is a flat out more athletic team than Chicago, and that's saying a lot when your point guard is D-Rose. The 1-2 of Wade/James is, to a certain extent, pretty unstoppable; the best Chi-town can do is contain them. Carlos Boozer has to be on his defensive game and contain Chris Bosh. It's one thing if Dwayne and Lebron start lighting it up, but if Chris Bosh is firing on all cylinders too, this isn't even a fair series. The good news is that Bosh is a bit of a baby, and if Boozer comes out playing inspired in the first half, Bosh can easily get down on himself and shoot horribly as the game goes on. That puts more pressure on the Big 2, which could lead to some easy implosions. Boozer's offensive consistency should get a shout-out here too, as their front court often goes as he does.
3. What is the potentially fatal flaw for each team?
For Chicago, I think it's Derrick Rose. I know that seems counterintuitive, but when Chicago struggles offensively, Rose takes over the game. The problem is that Rose isn't a superhuman and is capable of playing almost as poorly as the rest of his team given the right (or wrong, if you're Chicago) circumstances. Rose loves to drive to the basket, and when you're playing a defense that can be as physically imposing and brutal as the Heat, that can take its tole over multiple games. Not to mention fatigue over the course of one game and foul trouble.
For Miami, this is the part where I'm supposed to say they're perimeter shooters have to play more consistently. While it's true the outside has to play well to open up the lanes, I think they will get enough to make it a non-issue. I think a bigger problem is Miami's ability to grab rebounds and limit Chicago's second chance points. The bulls badly outrebounded the heat in the regular season, and their control of the boards allowed them to dominate Miami in the regular season.
4. Chicago won 62 games and Miami 58. Is this the real NBA Finals?
I think a cruely efficient Mavs team might be offended by this question. Bulls-Heat might be the best remaining matchup, but don't get it twisted. The NBA finals do not occur in the month of May.
5. Who wins?
Chicago's run ends here. I said it throughout the entire calendar year of 2011- with rare exception, you can't win the NBA finals with a scoring point guard. Miami wins in 6 games and takes another big step to quiet all the haters.
Friday, April 29, 2011
First Round Features Surprising Results
Rather than recap what you all already knew I had picked yesterday, I thought it might be a better idea to wait and feature some of the bolder picks of the first round with my thoughts on them.
Throw the mock draft out the window- the real one was much wilder. And after Denver passed on their primary need at DT to take Von Miller, AND after the cards passed on drafting a quarterback... well, throw most of what I said out the window, we're dealing with a different animal. Here are my thoughts on the most surprising picks from last night:
2. Denver Broncoes- Von Miller (OLB). I already alluded to this, but... wow. Many teams draft players they dont need because their athleticism and skill is so off the charts that they just have to take them, simply because they're still on the board. This is not the case with Denver and the second overall pick. With every possible player they could ever want still on the board- the only one gone was Cam Newton, and the quarterback is one of the only positions the broncos don't need- they chose a player that they really don't need. I mean honestly, when JMU's own Arthur Moats is one of your linebackers... who needs other linebackers?
Okay but seriously, why take Von Miller? You can't use the "he's just so good that we had to take him" excuse because the same thing could be said of Patrick Peterson, AJ Green, and... oh yeah, Marcell Dareus. You know, that guy that actually fills the position you desperately need?
The upside is that Von Miller is still an exceptional player that's gonna be an immediate and noticable impact. So it's not like it was a waste... just a little inefficient if you ask me.
Grade: C
5. Arizona-Patrick Peterson (CB) Same problem as Denver, but magnified. Do these guys realize that their team literally does not have a quarterback right now? Okay, clearly these guys have a plan on what to do about their qb situation. Either they wanna take someone like Kaepernick that will still be available when they pick again at the end of the second round... or they want to trade after the entire draft is over for someone like Bulger. I love Bulger for the obvious reasons (all time passing yards leader for qb's at WVU) and he's been a consistent qb in the NFL. But he's getting old. Why would you want a qb who would be starting in the 11th hour of his career? It's a temporary fix for a big, big problem, and when there are clearly franchise-altering solutions right in front of you, it seems a little weird to fill a slot you don't need filled, albeit with a freakishly gifted player.
Grade: C
6. Atlanta (traded from Cleveland)- Julio Jones (WR) This is a rare trade where both teams absolutely hit the lottery. Cleveland got something like five picks from Atlanta, two of which are future first rounders. Atlanta, meanwhile, picks up Julio Jones, a top end receiver that will take away the double team option on Roddy White. That solves one of only two real needs for the Falcons. The only need left to address is DE, and there are PLENTY of them still available tonight in the second round.
Atlanta Pick Grade: A
Cleveland Trade Grade: A
7. San Francisco- Aldon Smith (DE) Did SF not realize Blaine Gabbert was still on the board here? What happened? They need a quarterback. They need a corner, and Prince was there. There's literally a million End's this year... why waste your top ten pick on one that 1. isn't even a DE in the top 15 players and 2. doesn't address a primary concern on your team?
Grade: D
13. Detroit- Nick Fairley (DT) When I first heard this pick, I thought... wow. just when the lions were starting to get it together, they go and pick someone that makes no sense at all. But when I really started to think about it, I realized I was going to have nightmares thinking about the D-line that is Fairley, Suh, Vanden Bosch, and insert fourth name here who is not nearly as scary as the other three. That is psycho stuff. That is the defensive line that inspires movies like Saw. It's just downright disgusting stuff. So yeah, they dont fix their O-line and they didnt get a corner. But it might just be worth it.
Grade: B
16. Washington- Ryan Kerrigan (DE) Now I don't mean this as a knock on Kerrigan, because he's one of the best Ends in the class and even more importantly, he's a really good kid. But WHAT IN THE WORLD WERE THE REDSKINS THINKING? attention, tragic redskins fans: you're team has once again achieved an epic fail. this has gotta be one of the worst picks I've ever seen. Washington drafted an end, which they dont need, with the intention of spending time converting him into a linebacker, which they REALLY don't need (orakpo is kind of a beast, in case you hadn't heard). Prince is still on the board! draft him! draft a receiver! draft a quarterback! draft SOMEONE that makes sense on any level! good grief...
Grade: F
26. KC- Jonathan Baldwin (WR) He wasn't projected as a first round pick at WR, but this kid is good. And he's out of Pitt- so think how good he must be if I'm admitting that he is, in fact, a good pick. Baldwin will compliment the playing style of Bowe, and will add spread-the-field capabililties to an offense that, without Bowe, is frankly pretty one-dimensional. Baldwin will help the running game more than any offensive lineman could by making the D respect the pass. Certainly a high risk pick, but the Chiefs will see high reward.
Grade: A
I'll keep you all updated this weekend on anything strange or exciting. My twitter will be spewing out draft information all weekend long, so keep that in mind too!
Throw the mock draft out the window- the real one was much wilder. And after Denver passed on their primary need at DT to take Von Miller, AND after the cards passed on drafting a quarterback... well, throw most of what I said out the window, we're dealing with a different animal. Here are my thoughts on the most surprising picks from last night:
2. Denver Broncoes- Von Miller (OLB). I already alluded to this, but... wow. Many teams draft players they dont need because their athleticism and skill is so off the charts that they just have to take them, simply because they're still on the board. This is not the case with Denver and the second overall pick. With every possible player they could ever want still on the board- the only one gone was Cam Newton, and the quarterback is one of the only positions the broncos don't need- they chose a player that they really don't need. I mean honestly, when JMU's own Arthur Moats is one of your linebackers... who needs other linebackers?
Okay but seriously, why take Von Miller? You can't use the "he's just so good that we had to take him" excuse because the same thing could be said of Patrick Peterson, AJ Green, and... oh yeah, Marcell Dareus. You know, that guy that actually fills the position you desperately need?
The upside is that Von Miller is still an exceptional player that's gonna be an immediate and noticable impact. So it's not like it was a waste... just a little inefficient if you ask me.
Grade: C
5. Arizona-Patrick Peterson (CB) Same problem as Denver, but magnified. Do these guys realize that their team literally does not have a quarterback right now? Okay, clearly these guys have a plan on what to do about their qb situation. Either they wanna take someone like Kaepernick that will still be available when they pick again at the end of the second round... or they want to trade after the entire draft is over for someone like Bulger. I love Bulger for the obvious reasons (all time passing yards leader for qb's at WVU) and he's been a consistent qb in the NFL. But he's getting old. Why would you want a qb who would be starting in the 11th hour of his career? It's a temporary fix for a big, big problem, and when there are clearly franchise-altering solutions right in front of you, it seems a little weird to fill a slot you don't need filled, albeit with a freakishly gifted player.
Grade: C
6. Atlanta (traded from Cleveland)- Julio Jones (WR) This is a rare trade where both teams absolutely hit the lottery. Cleveland got something like five picks from Atlanta, two of which are future first rounders. Atlanta, meanwhile, picks up Julio Jones, a top end receiver that will take away the double team option on Roddy White. That solves one of only two real needs for the Falcons. The only need left to address is DE, and there are PLENTY of them still available tonight in the second round.
Atlanta Pick Grade: A
Cleveland Trade Grade: A
7. San Francisco- Aldon Smith (DE) Did SF not realize Blaine Gabbert was still on the board here? What happened? They need a quarterback. They need a corner, and Prince was there. There's literally a million End's this year... why waste your top ten pick on one that 1. isn't even a DE in the top 15 players and 2. doesn't address a primary concern on your team?
Grade: D
13. Detroit- Nick Fairley (DT) When I first heard this pick, I thought... wow. just when the lions were starting to get it together, they go and pick someone that makes no sense at all. But when I really started to think about it, I realized I was going to have nightmares thinking about the D-line that is Fairley, Suh, Vanden Bosch, and insert fourth name here who is not nearly as scary as the other three. That is psycho stuff. That is the defensive line that inspires movies like Saw. It's just downright disgusting stuff. So yeah, they dont fix their O-line and they didnt get a corner. But it might just be worth it.
Grade: B
16. Washington- Ryan Kerrigan (DE) Now I don't mean this as a knock on Kerrigan, because he's one of the best Ends in the class and even more importantly, he's a really good kid. But WHAT IN THE WORLD WERE THE REDSKINS THINKING? attention, tragic redskins fans: you're team has once again achieved an epic fail. this has gotta be one of the worst picks I've ever seen. Washington drafted an end, which they dont need, with the intention of spending time converting him into a linebacker, which they REALLY don't need (orakpo is kind of a beast, in case you hadn't heard). Prince is still on the board! draft him! draft a receiver! draft a quarterback! draft SOMEONE that makes sense on any level! good grief...
Grade: F
26. KC- Jonathan Baldwin (WR) He wasn't projected as a first round pick at WR, but this kid is good. And he's out of Pitt- so think how good he must be if I'm admitting that he is, in fact, a good pick. Baldwin will compliment the playing style of Bowe, and will add spread-the-field capabililties to an offense that, without Bowe, is frankly pretty one-dimensional. Baldwin will help the running game more than any offensive lineman could by making the D respect the pass. Certainly a high risk pick, but the Chiefs will see high reward.
Grade: A
I'll keep you all updated this weekend on anything strange or exciting. My twitter will be spewing out draft information all weekend long, so keep that in mind too!
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
MOCK DRAFT: NFC East, AFC North
Welcome readers to the final day of the blog. Today features almost all of the local favorites: the giants, redskins, ravens, steelers, eagles, and cowboys all have prominent fan bases in Virginia and the surrounding states (though how the cowboys pull that off from Texas still amazes me). Here are the requirements and my picks for the final eight teams:
NFC East
Dallas- The defense got burned a lot last year, and its mainly the secondary's fault. Since there are no Eric Berry's to be drafted in the first round this year, look for Dallas to take a D. End to take pressure off their secondary, or fill holes in their offensive line.
Philly- How the eagles manage to have such a good defense without more than one good corner amazes me. They need someone opposite Asante Samuel, and it's a pretty big need. Another linebacker would be nice, but is really more of a luxury. I would also think that they need a guard, but when your quarterback is Michael Vick, do you really need any offensive line at all?
NYG- You remember how surprised I was about the Philly's defense with only one corner? I'm about 10 times that on the linebacker-less, Superbowl-winning New York Giants. They didnt have linebackers then, and they dont really have them now either. their defense could be downright scary with some extra additions at linebacker and corner. But the line needs touching up too, as Eli is getting sacked far too often.
Washington- the one-of-everything approach? simply put, the redskins don't have enough draft picks to fix what they need to fix. they probably want out of the donovan deal, but they really have got to get some receivers now too. And that's receivers, plural. The line can probably survive for another year, but it's far from perfect. The front 7 actually isnt bad, but they do need a corner... and preferrably a runningback that is not going to get injured!
AFC North
Cincinatti- Carson Palmer clearly is somewhere on the path that is leading out the door. The question is- how much time is left on his Bengal clock? Do they have another year, or do they need a new quarterback right now? Regardless of palmer, the two best WR's (ochocinco and T.O.) are out the door. When your best receiver is Jordan Shipley, you're gonna need to draft some wideouts. Hopefully the organization can show some fictitious devotion to Palmer and draft a receiver, and at least put a bandaid on the qb problem for another year.
Cleveland- so much to fix, so little time. I'm gonna go ahead and call the browns the most damaged team, even though their record from 2010 might not show it (sorry Uncle Dave). the browns have just got to get a wide receiver so SOME quarterback on that team has someone to throw to besides runningback Peyton Hillis. The Brown's entire front 7 needs work, and the whole right side of the O-line needs new life too. Can you trade for a team?
Baltimore- The lack of an offensive tackle is causing everyone to shift around and play out of positions that theyre used to in Baltimore. Is it a big enough problem to require a first round solution? Eh, not by my reckoning. They also need receivers and a corner, but seeing as it is the Ravens, I've gotta think they might take someone that wants to run at the quarterback...
Pittsburgh- Corner is actually a major weakness for the Steelers. Expect them to address it way before any offensive line issues that need to be dealt with.
4. Cincinatti- AJ Green, WR, Georgia. He's an absolute monster and will solve problems on a team that needs receivers in game number one,
6. Cleveland- Julio Jones, WR, Alabama. Another beast, another instant solution.
9. Dallas- J.J. Watt, DE, Wisconsin. Nothing they need besides DE is available, and Watt is a good fit for this team.
10. Washington- Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska. If it wasn't for some guy named Patrick Peterson, Prince (who comes from the same univerisity as almost-equally-unpronouncable Ndamakung Suh- hope Im spelling that right because that's from memory) would most likely be the best corner in this draft. Instead, he sits on the verge of the top 10 and could fix the giant hole that plagues the redskin's secondary- the same hole that currently leaks everywhere not within 6-10 feet of Deangelo Hall.
19. NYG- Akeem Ayers, OLB, UCLA. it's not a deep class for linebackers, but not many teams actually need linebackers. please, new york. take Ayers. you need a linebacker. that being said, they will probably take a defensive end...
23. Philly- Jimmy Smith, CB, Colorado. Jimmy Smith is a guy who was already a mid-first round pick. This week, his stock has risen dramatically. Okay, maybe not that dramatically, because he's still a mid-first round pick... but now people are talking about him! Anyway, the point is he might not make it all the way to 23 because several teams need corners. Philly's saving grace could be that there are several good corners ahead of Smith on the board.
26. Baltimore- Cameron Jordan, DE, Cal. What can I say. With this class, I can't see the ravens not taking a defensive end.
31. Pittsburgh- Brandon Harris, CB, Miami (FL)
Tomorrow, I put it all together and offer some final thoughts. And I know many of you like these teams today, so let me hear what you think! Like your potential new team member or hate him? Smart decision, bad decision? Am I dumb? Actually, please don't answer that last question.
NFC East
Dallas- The defense got burned a lot last year, and its mainly the secondary's fault. Since there are no Eric Berry's to be drafted in the first round this year, look for Dallas to take a D. End to take pressure off their secondary, or fill holes in their offensive line.
Philly- How the eagles manage to have such a good defense without more than one good corner amazes me. They need someone opposite Asante Samuel, and it's a pretty big need. Another linebacker would be nice, but is really more of a luxury. I would also think that they need a guard, but when your quarterback is Michael Vick, do you really need any offensive line at all?
NYG- You remember how surprised I was about the Philly's defense with only one corner? I'm about 10 times that on the linebacker-less, Superbowl-winning New York Giants. They didnt have linebackers then, and they dont really have them now either. their defense could be downright scary with some extra additions at linebacker and corner. But the line needs touching up too, as Eli is getting sacked far too often.
Washington- the one-of-everything approach? simply put, the redskins don't have enough draft picks to fix what they need to fix. they probably want out of the donovan deal, but they really have got to get some receivers now too. And that's receivers, plural. The line can probably survive for another year, but it's far from perfect. The front 7 actually isnt bad, but they do need a corner... and preferrably a runningback that is not going to get injured!
AFC North
Cincinatti- Carson Palmer clearly is somewhere on the path that is leading out the door. The question is- how much time is left on his Bengal clock? Do they have another year, or do they need a new quarterback right now? Regardless of palmer, the two best WR's (ochocinco and T.O.) are out the door. When your best receiver is Jordan Shipley, you're gonna need to draft some wideouts. Hopefully the organization can show some fictitious devotion to Palmer and draft a receiver, and at least put a bandaid on the qb problem for another year.
Cleveland- so much to fix, so little time. I'm gonna go ahead and call the browns the most damaged team, even though their record from 2010 might not show it (sorry Uncle Dave). the browns have just got to get a wide receiver so SOME quarterback on that team has someone to throw to besides runningback Peyton Hillis. The Brown's entire front 7 needs work, and the whole right side of the O-line needs new life too. Can you trade for a team?
Baltimore- The lack of an offensive tackle is causing everyone to shift around and play out of positions that theyre used to in Baltimore. Is it a big enough problem to require a first round solution? Eh, not by my reckoning. They also need receivers and a corner, but seeing as it is the Ravens, I've gotta think they might take someone that wants to run at the quarterback...
Pittsburgh- Corner is actually a major weakness for the Steelers. Expect them to address it way before any offensive line issues that need to be dealt with.
4. Cincinatti- AJ Green, WR, Georgia. He's an absolute monster and will solve problems on a team that needs receivers in game number one,
6. Cleveland- Julio Jones, WR, Alabama. Another beast, another instant solution.
9. Dallas- J.J. Watt, DE, Wisconsin. Nothing they need besides DE is available, and Watt is a good fit for this team.
10. Washington- Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska. If it wasn't for some guy named Patrick Peterson, Prince (who comes from the same univerisity as almost-equally-unpronouncable Ndamakung Suh- hope Im spelling that right because that's from memory) would most likely be the best corner in this draft. Instead, he sits on the verge of the top 10 and could fix the giant hole that plagues the redskin's secondary- the same hole that currently leaks everywhere not within 6-10 feet of Deangelo Hall.
19. NYG- Akeem Ayers, OLB, UCLA. it's not a deep class for linebackers, but not many teams actually need linebackers. please, new york. take Ayers. you need a linebacker. that being said, they will probably take a defensive end...
23. Philly- Jimmy Smith, CB, Colorado. Jimmy Smith is a guy who was already a mid-first round pick. This week, his stock has risen dramatically. Okay, maybe not that dramatically, because he's still a mid-first round pick... but now people are talking about him! Anyway, the point is he might not make it all the way to 23 because several teams need corners. Philly's saving grace could be that there are several good corners ahead of Smith on the board.
26. Baltimore- Cameron Jordan, DE, Cal. What can I say. With this class, I can't see the ravens not taking a defensive end.
31. Pittsburgh- Brandon Harris, CB, Miami (FL)
Tomorrow, I put it all together and offer some final thoughts. And I know many of you like these teams today, so let me hear what you think! Like your potential new team member or hate him? Smart decision, bad decision? Am I dumb? Actually, please don't answer that last question.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
MOCK DRAFT: 2.0 Changes, NFC South, AFC East
Mock Draft feataures some changes to the previous two days. I have updated my own Draft lines and moved some players around. Below are the players I have changed and the reasons why I changed them:
Tennessee Titans: Before- Jake Locker
Current- Nick Fairley
The titans still like Locker, but if you look throughout the first round, most teams outside of those drafting in the top 10 do not need quarterbacks. The titans desperately need a playcaller, but they need a D. tackle just as bad. There are rumors of Fairley's draft stock falling, but I can't see him falling all the way to Jacksonville. Fairley is all too capable of having an immediate impact on a team in need of a DT to fall past Tennessee. Look for them to draft Fairley, but still try to acquire an early second round pick to grab Jake Locker.
St Louis Rams: Before- Rahim Moore
Current- Robert Quinn
Rahim Moore is a nice safety, but it would be pretty risky to draft him in the middle of the first round. It's possible that the rams address a need and take Danny Watkins out of Baylor, but I think they instead try to build a pass rushing force around a deep class of Defensive Ends. Figuring out exactly what DE's will and won't fall to the 14th pick is next to impossible, but Robert Quinn seems like a guy that just fits the middle of the first round.
Indianapolis Colts: Before- Gabe Carimi Kansas City: Before- Corey Liuget
Current- Corey Liuget Current- Gabe Carimi
OG's are not really in too much need this year; OT's are different. Carimi is the last of four offensive tackles thats are practically locks to go in the first round, with Derek Sherrod as a possible fifth pick at the end of the round. I do believe that Carimi could go to the Colts if he makes it that far, but I think that he might go right before to the chiefs. Carimi addresses a more immediate need at OT, while Liuget can take some double team pressure off of Indianapolis' premiere Defensive End, Dwight Freeney.
Jacksonville: Before- Nick Fairley
Current- Ryan Kerrigan
I just can't see Fairley falling this far. The jags have shown serious interest in Kerrigan and claim that he would be a great fit. End isn't exactly a need, but all the players that could fix a hole will most likely already be off the board.
Green Bay: Before- Adrian Clayborn
Current- Brooks Reed
Same position, different player. I don't see Clayborn falling all the way to the last pick of the first round.
Some large changes, some small adjustments. Regardless, on to today's teams:
NFC South
Atlanta- Roddy White can't be the only receiver in town (tony gonzalez doesn't count). What they really need is a better pass rushing force in the form of an End.
Tampa Bay- Also in need of an End/Linebackers. Come to think of it, both teams could use some O-line spruce ups too, but that definitely won't be in the first round.
Carolina- The panthers have eighteen thousand quarterbacks, all of which are partially functional. Jimmy Clausen could be the quarterback of the future and could potentially develop while Matt Moore gets some starts. Carolina has a giant need at DT, and Marcell Dareus would be a HUGE help in making this team competitive again. Couple that with a second round draft of a Tight End, another huge need, and Carolina is looking at doubling their win total from 2010 this year. at least that's what I think.
Or Carolina can (and probably will) draft another qb in Cam Newton, and continue to limp along in a very good NFC South. Yep, that's probably what they're gonna do.
New Orleans- The defense was way too soft in 2010. The saints need to get an end and a linebacker that can develop into big defensive forces. And for love of all things football, who does Drew Brees have to kill to get some decent receivers in New Orleans?
AFC East
Buffalo- Sure, Fitzpatrick isn't Peyton Manning. But he's a decent quarterback and Buffalo could build a team around him. Buffalo has had a problem with offensive tackle FOREVER and it has caused game-deciding problems. They need to take their first pick and draft a tackle now. will they? ehh. maybe. a "franchise quarterback" can definitely wait.
Miami- the dolphins offense is absolute crap. Runningbacks are in free agency or just falling off the map, chad henne in my opinion has never been good, and there are serious offensive line problems everywhere.
New England- It's not like New England needs another runningback after last year's performance by Benjarvus Green-Ellis, but they have showed huge interest in Mark Ingram. They do however need an outside linebacker and an offensive lineman. Good thing they have two first round picks.
NYJ- basically one of every defensive player. because rex ryan has a love affair with defensive players. front 7 guys, and i believe they need a safety as well.
1. Carolina- They've showed interest in Cam Newton. They shouldn't draft Cam Newton. They're probably gonna draft Cam Newton.
3. Buffalo- Tyron Smith, OT from USC. if they draft Blaine Gabbert, they're doomed to another year of shooting-for-mediocrity. apologies in advance to my boy arthur moats.
15. Miami- Mike Pouncey, a premier center from Florida. He will provide some immediate help to an absolute mess.
17. New England (1)- Mark Ingram. You don't show interest in a player you don't really need unless you're going to draft him.
20. Tampa Bay- Muhammad Wilkerson, DE from Temple. Part of a giant and inevitable run on Defensive Ends in the middle of the round.
24. New Orleans- Aldon Smith, DE, Missouri. The DE run is still going strong, even as the round is coming to a close.
27. Atlanta- Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa. Yep, still going.
28. New England (2)- Derek Sherrod, OT, Mississippi State.
30. NYJ- Cameron Heyward, DE, Ohio State.
Tomorrow is the last day of the mock draft, and I have saved the best for last. Many of the teams that local readers like will be featured tomorrow, including the Eagles, Redskins, Giants, Ravens, and Steelers. Make sure you stop by again tomorrow!
Tennessee Titans: Before- Jake Locker
Current- Nick Fairley
The titans still like Locker, but if you look throughout the first round, most teams outside of those drafting in the top 10 do not need quarterbacks. The titans desperately need a playcaller, but they need a D. tackle just as bad. There are rumors of Fairley's draft stock falling, but I can't see him falling all the way to Jacksonville. Fairley is all too capable of having an immediate impact on a team in need of a DT to fall past Tennessee. Look for them to draft Fairley, but still try to acquire an early second round pick to grab Jake Locker.
St Louis Rams: Before- Rahim Moore
Current- Robert Quinn
Rahim Moore is a nice safety, but it would be pretty risky to draft him in the middle of the first round. It's possible that the rams address a need and take Danny Watkins out of Baylor, but I think they instead try to build a pass rushing force around a deep class of Defensive Ends. Figuring out exactly what DE's will and won't fall to the 14th pick is next to impossible, but Robert Quinn seems like a guy that just fits the middle of the first round.
Indianapolis Colts: Before- Gabe Carimi Kansas City: Before- Corey Liuget
Current- Corey Liuget Current- Gabe Carimi
OG's are not really in too much need this year; OT's are different. Carimi is the last of four offensive tackles thats are practically locks to go in the first round, with Derek Sherrod as a possible fifth pick at the end of the round. I do believe that Carimi could go to the Colts if he makes it that far, but I think that he might go right before to the chiefs. Carimi addresses a more immediate need at OT, while Liuget can take some double team pressure off of Indianapolis' premiere Defensive End, Dwight Freeney.
Jacksonville: Before- Nick Fairley
Current- Ryan Kerrigan
I just can't see Fairley falling this far. The jags have shown serious interest in Kerrigan and claim that he would be a great fit. End isn't exactly a need, but all the players that could fix a hole will most likely already be off the board.
Green Bay: Before- Adrian Clayborn
Current- Brooks Reed
Same position, different player. I don't see Clayborn falling all the way to the last pick of the first round.
Some large changes, some small adjustments. Regardless, on to today's teams:
NFC South
Atlanta- Roddy White can't be the only receiver in town (tony gonzalez doesn't count). What they really need is a better pass rushing force in the form of an End.
Tampa Bay- Also in need of an End/Linebackers. Come to think of it, both teams could use some O-line spruce ups too, but that definitely won't be in the first round.
Carolina- The panthers have eighteen thousand quarterbacks, all of which are partially functional. Jimmy Clausen could be the quarterback of the future and could potentially develop while Matt Moore gets some starts. Carolina has a giant need at DT, and Marcell Dareus would be a HUGE help in making this team competitive again. Couple that with a second round draft of a Tight End, another huge need, and Carolina is looking at doubling their win total from 2010 this year. at least that's what I think.
Or Carolina can (and probably will) draft another qb in Cam Newton, and continue to limp along in a very good NFC South. Yep, that's probably what they're gonna do.
New Orleans- The defense was way too soft in 2010. The saints need to get an end and a linebacker that can develop into big defensive forces. And for love of all things football, who does Drew Brees have to kill to get some decent receivers in New Orleans?
AFC East
Buffalo- Sure, Fitzpatrick isn't Peyton Manning. But he's a decent quarterback and Buffalo could build a team around him. Buffalo has had a problem with offensive tackle FOREVER and it has caused game-deciding problems. They need to take their first pick and draft a tackle now. will they? ehh. maybe. a "franchise quarterback" can definitely wait.
Miami- the dolphins offense is absolute crap. Runningbacks are in free agency or just falling off the map, chad henne in my opinion has never been good, and there are serious offensive line problems everywhere.
New England- It's not like New England needs another runningback after last year's performance by Benjarvus Green-Ellis, but they have showed huge interest in Mark Ingram. They do however need an outside linebacker and an offensive lineman. Good thing they have two first round picks.
NYJ- basically one of every defensive player. because rex ryan has a love affair with defensive players. front 7 guys, and i believe they need a safety as well.
1. Carolina- They've showed interest in Cam Newton. They shouldn't draft Cam Newton. They're probably gonna draft Cam Newton.
3. Buffalo- Tyron Smith, OT from USC. if they draft Blaine Gabbert, they're doomed to another year of shooting-for-mediocrity. apologies in advance to my boy arthur moats.
15. Miami- Mike Pouncey, a premier center from Florida. He will provide some immediate help to an absolute mess.
17. New England (1)- Mark Ingram. You don't show interest in a player you don't really need unless you're going to draft him.
20. Tampa Bay- Muhammad Wilkerson, DE from Temple. Part of a giant and inevitable run on Defensive Ends in the middle of the round.
24. New Orleans- Aldon Smith, DE, Missouri. The DE run is still going strong, even as the round is coming to a close.
27. Atlanta- Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa. Yep, still going.
28. New England (2)- Derek Sherrod, OT, Mississippi State.
30. NYJ- Cameron Heyward, DE, Ohio State.
Tomorrow is the last day of the mock draft, and I have saved the best for last. Many of the teams that local readers like will be featured tomorrow, including the Eagles, Redskins, Giants, Ravens, and Steelers. Make sure you stop by again tomorrow!
Monday, April 25, 2011
MOCK DRAFT: NFC North, AFC West
Day two of the draft readers. Let's get right down to it.
NFC North
Chicago- I say Jay Cutler, you say.... well you should probably say sack. Jay Cutler gets sacked more than just about any other quarterback. Period. And this isn't a one year thing, either. The bears offensive line was dead last in 2010, and wasn't too much better the previous few years. Then again, when I say jay cutler, you should probably think interceptions too. but that one isn't on the offensive line. rant aside, the bears need to draft linemen. a d. tackle and a receiver wouldnt hurt either.
Detroit- The offense is finally starting to... you know, score points. The o-line could use some work, but its minor. This year, I think Detroit will start to concentrate on the other side of the ball. Suh was a big help up front, and had Bradford not almost lead his team to the playoffs as a rookie, the unpronouncable monster would be my vote for rookie of the year. Now they need to give him some linebackers to work with- as soon as they address the even more important need at the corner position.
Minnesota- what dont the vikings need? a new quarterback, massive help on the offensive line, and some help in the secondary. the head coach of the vikings should probably blindly throw a dart... he'll probably hit a position he'll need, and he wont have to worry about what to fix first either.
Green Bay- what do the packers really need? Not really anything. That's what happens when you win the superbowl. but if i had to pick one thing, a nice d. end might come in handy. watch the packers to trade their second pick (#33) away.
AFC West
Denver- lots to address here. some help in the middle of their front 7 would be great, and a tight end couldnt hurt either. come to think of it... does denver even have a tight end, or do they just have tim tebow?
San Diego- Rivers needs more protection. Look for San Diego to grab a tackle, and then address some issues on the other side of the ball.
Kansas City- This one was tough, but I think the chiefs will look to draft mainly on the offensive side. Bowe needs a threat on the other side to shake off double teams, and the line needs to get some more players to protect the Chiefs primary offensive threat (the dual run game)
Oakland- ive been saying this since last year. surely you guys saw Jason Campbell with the redskins... why would ANYONE pick him up after his tenure there? the raiders eventually are going to need a new qb. rumor is that theyre looking at nevada's qb (colin kaepernick), who i think is a nice diamond in the rough. good think he's not considered a first round pick- oakland traded their first pick to the patriots.
2. Denver- If Carolina takes Cam Newton as leaked information seems to indicate, look to denver to pounce on Marcell Dareus. He's an absolute monster (still not better than suh in my opinion) and will have an immediate impact in denver.
12. Minnesota- I don't think Minnesota can pick anyone that they need and justify them as a early/mid first round pick. look for the vikings to trade down, or otherwise take da'quan bowers, whose stock has fallen a little bit after a knee injury scare.
13. Detroit- Anthony Costanzo, OT out of Boston College. side note: this kid has MAJOR heart.
18. San Diego- Nate Solder, another OT out of Colorado
21. Kansas City- look for a trade. if they cant go up or down, they might take Corey Liuget out of Illinois.
29. Chicago- Stephen Paea, DT, Oregon State
32. Green Bay- Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa.
Today was pretty straight forward. Tomorrow, I feature the NFC South and the AFC East. Stay tuned!
NFC North
Chicago- I say Jay Cutler, you say.... well you should probably say sack. Jay Cutler gets sacked more than just about any other quarterback. Period. And this isn't a one year thing, either. The bears offensive line was dead last in 2010, and wasn't too much better the previous few years. Then again, when I say jay cutler, you should probably think interceptions too. but that one isn't on the offensive line. rant aside, the bears need to draft linemen. a d. tackle and a receiver wouldnt hurt either.
Detroit- The offense is finally starting to... you know, score points. The o-line could use some work, but its minor. This year, I think Detroit will start to concentrate on the other side of the ball. Suh was a big help up front, and had Bradford not almost lead his team to the playoffs as a rookie, the unpronouncable monster would be my vote for rookie of the year. Now they need to give him some linebackers to work with- as soon as they address the even more important need at the corner position.
Minnesota- what dont the vikings need? a new quarterback, massive help on the offensive line, and some help in the secondary. the head coach of the vikings should probably blindly throw a dart... he'll probably hit a position he'll need, and he wont have to worry about what to fix first either.
Green Bay- what do the packers really need? Not really anything. That's what happens when you win the superbowl. but if i had to pick one thing, a nice d. end might come in handy. watch the packers to trade their second pick (#33) away.
AFC West
Denver- lots to address here. some help in the middle of their front 7 would be great, and a tight end couldnt hurt either. come to think of it... does denver even have a tight end, or do they just have tim tebow?
San Diego- Rivers needs more protection. Look for San Diego to grab a tackle, and then address some issues on the other side of the ball.
Kansas City- This one was tough, but I think the chiefs will look to draft mainly on the offensive side. Bowe needs a threat on the other side to shake off double teams, and the line needs to get some more players to protect the Chiefs primary offensive threat (the dual run game)
Oakland- ive been saying this since last year. surely you guys saw Jason Campbell with the redskins... why would ANYONE pick him up after his tenure there? the raiders eventually are going to need a new qb. rumor is that theyre looking at nevada's qb (colin kaepernick), who i think is a nice diamond in the rough. good think he's not considered a first round pick- oakland traded their first pick to the patriots.
2. Denver- If Carolina takes Cam Newton as leaked information seems to indicate, look to denver to pounce on Marcell Dareus. He's an absolute monster (still not better than suh in my opinion) and will have an immediate impact in denver.
12. Minnesota- I don't think Minnesota can pick anyone that they need and justify them as a early/mid first round pick. look for the vikings to trade down, or otherwise take da'quan bowers, whose stock has fallen a little bit after a knee injury scare.
13. Detroit- Anthony Costanzo, OT out of Boston College. side note: this kid has MAJOR heart.
18. San Diego- Nate Solder, another OT out of Colorado
21. Kansas City- look for a trade. if they cant go up or down, they might take Corey Liuget out of Illinois.
29. Chicago- Stephen Paea, DT, Oregon State
32. Green Bay- Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa.
Today was pretty straight forward. Tomorrow, I feature the NFC South and the AFC East. Stay tuned!
Sunday, April 24, 2011
MOCK DRAFT: NFC West, AFC South
Welcome to Day 1 of my draft. A little bit about how this will work:
I'm going to list the teams from each division and quickly real off my assessment of what each team needs. I've also compiled a list of fifty or so of the best draft prospects this year by position (not listed here).
Anyway, on to the forecast, which calls for light showers of unfairly athletic people:
NFC West
St Louis- For a 7-9 team that missed the playoffs thanks to the lowly Seahawks, this team isn't too bad off. They need to shore up the offensive line to protect young quarterback Sam Bradford by taking a Guard. Their secondary is a little weak. Most importantly, they need some sort of Wide Receiver for two reasons- they dont have a real deep threat, and they need some sort of passing game to open up running lanes for Steven Jackson.
Seattle- The seahawks need a quarterback of the future, and you can almost guarentee that they will take one with the amount of qb's in this year's draft. But they need to fix holes in their offensive line too, and they have approximately 0 reliable corners.
San Francisco- yet another team, yet another needed quarterback. Fun fact: alex smith was drafted parallel to Green Bay quarterback and recent superbowl winner aaron rodgers. another fun fact: alex smith sucks, and aaron rodgers doesn't. i believe the 49'ers are finally going to pull the plug on smith and take a new quarterback. they also need a few defesive players that will probably come in the second round.
Arizona- yes, you guessed it. quarterback. a tight end and linebackers wouldnt hurt either.
AFC South
Tennessee- will the need for quarterbacks never end? Vince is done, and the titans need a new qb. a D. Tackle and receivers will have to wait. too bad you cant draft a new coach, though.
Houston- Last year, the texans were synonymous with "no pass defense." they need a complete overhaul of their secondary. they have little holes along their line they need to fix too (OLB, NT), but look for them to fix the gaping hole before the small leak.
Jacksonville- The other team known for very little pass defense. Jacksonville needs a safety, but they also really need a couple receivers after the departure of Mike Sims-Thomas. Mike Thomas cant do this by himself people.
Indianapolis- Most of the things Indy needs centers around their running game. It's basically nonexistant, with Indy's run ranking in the late 20's (i wanna say 28th). They're gonna need to draft a couple offensive linemen, and a runningback that isn't old and injury prone (joseph addai) or just otherwise really bad (hart/everyone else). The improved line has the added bonus of protecting Peyton Manning, who- let's face it- is getting old, and will appreiate the protection.
5. Arizona- just cant decide. Either Gabbert or Von Miller. Let's say Gabbert.
7. San Fran- too soon to take a qb that doesnt belong in the top 10. The 49'ers draft Patrick Peterson.
8. Tennessee- Tennessee really, really likes Jake Locker, but this qb doesnt belong in the top 10. they might try to trade down, maybe even with Jacksonville, but still get Locker along with possibly another pick or cash from the trade.
11. Houston- I think Von Miller slips through the cracks somehow, and Houston grabs him at 11.
14. St. Louis- The rams need have specific needs, and all of the elite level Guards and WR's are taken. I think they end up taking Rahim Moore, much to the chagrin of the jaguars at 16.
16. Jacksonville- Jax is in a bit of a problem- the talent they could want will already be taken, and the talent that will be left will not be worth of a mid first round pick. watch them to either trade away, or take someone that they dont need but fits the pick. I think they try to trade but cant, and could end up taking Nick Fairley.
22. Indianapolis- Gabe Carimi, an OT out of Wisconsin
25. Seattle- Aaron Williams, a Corner from Texas
Check out tomorrow, when i do the NFC north and the AFC West!
I'm going to list the teams from each division and quickly real off my assessment of what each team needs. I've also compiled a list of fifty or so of the best draft prospects this year by position (not listed here).
Anyway, on to the forecast, which calls for light showers of unfairly athletic people:
NFC West
St Louis- For a 7-9 team that missed the playoffs thanks to the lowly Seahawks, this team isn't too bad off. They need to shore up the offensive line to protect young quarterback Sam Bradford by taking a Guard. Their secondary is a little weak. Most importantly, they need some sort of Wide Receiver for two reasons- they dont have a real deep threat, and they need some sort of passing game to open up running lanes for Steven Jackson.
Seattle- The seahawks need a quarterback of the future, and you can almost guarentee that they will take one with the amount of qb's in this year's draft. But they need to fix holes in their offensive line too, and they have approximately 0 reliable corners.
San Francisco- yet another team, yet another needed quarterback. Fun fact: alex smith was drafted parallel to Green Bay quarterback and recent superbowl winner aaron rodgers. another fun fact: alex smith sucks, and aaron rodgers doesn't. i believe the 49'ers are finally going to pull the plug on smith and take a new quarterback. they also need a few defesive players that will probably come in the second round.
Arizona- yes, you guessed it. quarterback. a tight end and linebackers wouldnt hurt either.
AFC South
Tennessee- will the need for quarterbacks never end? Vince is done, and the titans need a new qb. a D. Tackle and receivers will have to wait. too bad you cant draft a new coach, though.
Houston- Last year, the texans were synonymous with "no pass defense." they need a complete overhaul of their secondary. they have little holes along their line they need to fix too (OLB, NT), but look for them to fix the gaping hole before the small leak.
Jacksonville- The other team known for very little pass defense. Jacksonville needs a safety, but they also really need a couple receivers after the departure of Mike Sims-Thomas. Mike Thomas cant do this by himself people.
Indianapolis- Most of the things Indy needs centers around their running game. It's basically nonexistant, with Indy's run ranking in the late 20's (i wanna say 28th). They're gonna need to draft a couple offensive linemen, and a runningback that isn't old and injury prone (joseph addai) or just otherwise really bad (hart/everyone else). The improved line has the added bonus of protecting Peyton Manning, who- let's face it- is getting old, and will appreiate the protection.
5. Arizona- just cant decide. Either Gabbert or Von Miller. Let's say Gabbert.
7. San Fran- too soon to take a qb that doesnt belong in the top 10. The 49'ers draft Patrick Peterson.
8. Tennessee- Tennessee really, really likes Jake Locker, but this qb doesnt belong in the top 10. they might try to trade down, maybe even with Jacksonville, but still get Locker along with possibly another pick or cash from the trade.
11. Houston- I think Von Miller slips through the cracks somehow, and Houston grabs him at 11.
14. St. Louis- The rams need have specific needs, and all of the elite level Guards and WR's are taken. I think they end up taking Rahim Moore, much to the chagrin of the jaguars at 16.
16. Jacksonville- Jax is in a bit of a problem- the talent they could want will already be taken, and the talent that will be left will not be worth of a mid first round pick. watch them to either trade away, or take someone that they dont need but fits the pick. I think they try to trade but cant, and could end up taking Nick Fairley.
22. Indianapolis- Gabe Carimi, an OT out of Wisconsin
25. Seattle- Aaron Williams, a Corner from Texas
Check out tomorrow, when i do the NFC north and the AFC West!
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