NFL Mock Draft 2009 v 2.0 Pre Combine Edition

Welcome once again everyone to the LSWTF Mock Draft. The draft order is now set and it is time to start thinking heavily on where teams are going to go, who is moving around, and what big trades we should expect to see. Last year we saw quite a few moves in the first round, I'm predicting now this year may break records in regards to how many trades you see. I'm willing to say two of the top five teams will move down or trade away their picks in some fashion.

ROUND ONE
1. Detroit Lions-Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
The Lions hired Jim Schwartz and by all accounts he is a very smart in the football sense. He knows the QB class isn't up to par this year, that what he can get later isn't that far from what he can get right here. So with that in mind I see him taking Andre Smith, continuing a trend to come of taking an offensive tackle first. Now the Lions have a great deal of picks so I'm gonna say this right off the bat, I expect them to offer their second first rounder and one of their third rounders to the Patriots for Matt Cassell.

2. St Louis Rams-Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest
They drafted the son of Long last year and now they hired the defensive coordinator who unleashed hell from the defensive end position in New York. Now imagine Chris Long and right behind him, Aaron Curry. His stock is pretty high now, after the combine I imagine it will be even higher.

3. Kansas City Chiefs-Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
There is an interesting dynamic brewing in KC. You have the Patriot minded Pioli with the offensive minded Hadley, hence you end up with Michael Crabtree. Now of course this will cause all of Seattle to begin weeping into their Starbucks, but Hadley knows what he can do with devastating WRs at his disposal. Pioli knows this offense needs some playmakers and Crabtree is without a doubt the number one playmaker in this draft.


4. Seattle Seahawks-BJ Raji, DT, Boston College
This is a few spots high for Raji, but the Seahawks may learn from the Patriots and not worry if it is deemed "too high" for a player, especially when that player produces. Of course it goes without saying that if Crabtree falls to this spot Seattle will take him in an instant.

5. Cleveland Browns-Eugene Monroe, OT/G, Virginia
Let me be frank, I don't expect the Browns to stay at the number five spot. I see them moving down with the Eagles who are in desperate need of one of the offensive tackles of this draft. Mangini used his first draft in New York to stock pile picks, and that worked out pretty well. If they do decide to stay Monroe makes the most sense to me. He can play tackle or guard and they need to balance out that left heavy offensive line.

6. Cincinnati Bengals-Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia
I know this pick doesn't make a whole hell of a lot of sense to some people, the Bengals obviously need more defensive help then anything. Then again its the Bungles and they don't really have a running threat at the moment and Moreno may be too tempting to pass up. I could see Jenkins, Maybin or one of the tackles here as well.

7. Oakland Raiders-Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri
Al Davis loves one thing, speed. This would be the thrid straight year where you saw the Raiders getting some of the most devistating offensive players in college football with their first round pick. The bonus to Maclin is his return ability, which Oakland is probably already drooling over.

8. Jacksonville Jaguars-Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio St
Though an inside linebacker here is tempting, the Jaguars attempted to shore up their secondary last year and it didn't work out so well. Jenkins seems to have all the traits of a sure fire hall of famer so I can easily see Del Rio pulling the trigger on this kid. Of course if one of the wide outs fall this far, I can see that happening too.

9. Green Bay Packers-Aaron Maybin, DE, Penn St
The thing that hurt the Packers defense this year was the complete lack of a pass rush. Taking Maybin over Brown and Orakpo I think will have more to do with where he played (a cold climate) then anything else. Maybin knows how to play that Packers style of defense and should meld in well, though I don't know if I see constant Pro Bowler in him.

10. San Francisco 49ers-Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC
Now many have the Niners taking the first QB, but I don't see this. If the Buccs let Jeff Garcia go I can see a reunion in his home town and allowing the younger QBs to develop. Remember Singletary is a defensive guy and how scary would it be to imagine Rey Maualuga and Patrick Willis on the same team? Terrifying if you ask me, jesus.

11. Buffalo Bills-Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma St
They need to give Trent Edwards a tight end as a target, as this offense is moving in the right direction, I just see the TE as the glaring spot of weakness right now. I love the style of play by Pettigrew, and I think Dick Jauron will too.

12. Denver Broncos-Everette Brown, DE, Florida St
For a long time now the Broncos have been looking for a pash rush. Their rookie defensive end should have been a star this last year, but he was hurt early on. Add Brown to the other side of him and this defensive line just got very athletic and very likely JaMarcus Russell's worst nightmare.

13. Washington Redskins-Jason Smith, OT, Baylor
I've talked to my Redskins fan friends and they all seem to think defensive end, defensive end. Sorry I just cannot agree with that. They have no second round pick, and with the way their line is aging (not to mention performing) I have to go with an offensive tackle here. Jim Zorn knows the benefits of having a solid tackle (read Wlater Jones) protect your QB.

14. New Orleans Saints-Michael Oher, OT, Ole Miss
Drew Brees is what moves this offense, not McCallister or Bush. They need to make sure they protect arguably one of the best quarterbacks in the league. Hell, who knows maybe he can even open a hole up for Duece and Reggie while he's protecting the Boilermaker.

15. Houston Texans-Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas
If Orakpo lasts to the Texans I imagine I will be hearing plenty of gunfire in the streets if they make this pick. Super Mario is playing out of his mind down here and needs someone on the otherside to balance out his act. The duo of Williams and Orakpo may just be the most athletic defensive end duo in the league.

16. San Diego Chargers-Brian Cushing, LB, USC
The Chargers don't have a second round pick, so grabbing one of the top linebackers is crucial here. They'll be able to snag one of the running backs in the third round, but their linebacker corps needs a solid presence since so many go out with injury throughout the year. Cushing can play both OLB and ILB in a 3/4 I think and should be a great fit on this team.

17. New York Jets-Percy Harvin, WR, Florida
Remember that scene towards the finale of The Matrix? What do you need, weapons, and lots of them. The Jets have decent weapons, but nothing with the firepower of Percy Harvin. Hell, put him on kickoff with Leon Washington, a wildcat with Brad Smith, or any other offensive formation and the kid will make a play.

18. Chicago Bears-Mark Sancchez, QB, USC
The Bears will be salivating if Davis falls to them at 18, this is true, but I don't think the organization will let one of the QBs slip by them if they make it this far. Yes, Kyle Orton is the starter but he doesn't exactly light up the scoreboard with excitement. Drafting Sanchez gives him some time to sit for a year before Orton and get adjusted to the pro game.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Matt Stafford, QB, Georgia
Jon Gruden is no longer the head honcho on the Pirate Ship, lord knows why, so gone are the days of veteran QBs all over the place. Raheem Morris makes a statement and takes Stafford since he's still on the board. They've seen what a rookie QB can do, of course if they keep Garcia this could change as well.

20. Detroit Lions via Cowboys-Peria Jerry, DT, Ole Miss
If they still have this pick remember one key thing, their new coach is Jim Schwartz. He knows how much his success relied on Albert Haynesworth, and with Shaun Rogers gone in Detroit, he needs some inside presence on the defensive line. Now I wish the Browns would just suck it up, and take Jerry with the number five pick. I think this kid is going to be a superstar and is very close to being my favorite player in this draft.

21. Philadelphia Eagles-Eben Britton, OT, Arizona
Both tackles are over 30, one won't be healthy until training camp, and that's if they resign him. Now of course there's that chance they could trade up, but then they could just play the odds and hope that someone like Britton falls into their lap at number 21.

22. Minnesota Vikings-Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest
Winfield finally got some recognition this year and was sent to the Pro Bowl, but that doesn't change the fact that the Vikings have a bit of an age situation in the secondary. Taking Smith now allows him to learn from those veterans and makes him that much better.

23. New England Patriots-Clint Sintim, OLB, Virginia
Dear god I hope they take Sintim over Clay Matthews. He has the ability to play both the OLB and ILB in the 3/4 I believe. Their job of lowering the average age of their linebacking corps needs to continue as I think Mayo is the only one without an AARP card at this point.

24. Atlanta Falcons-Patrick Chung, SS, Oregon
I'm sure many of you are scratching your heads at this, but they have two safeties who are free agents, and even then most of their safeties are a bit long in the tooth. I think Mike Smith is gonna LOVE Patrick Chung's style of play.

25. Miami Dolphins-Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois
Bill Parcells has a very interesting team being born there on the beach. One thing it needs, however, is a shut down cornerback. I think Vontae Davis can be that back, should be that back, if he manages to slip by the Bears of course.

26. Baltimore Ravens-Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland
It's always nice to see a team take a local kid, so this makes sense to me. They need to give Joe Flacco a big tall target downfield, Mason isn't getting any younger you know. I know the initial reaction is gonna be, what about a linebacker?! There are a plethora of quality linebackers in this draft, it can wait a round.

27. Indianapolis Colts-Alex Mack, OL, Cal
Though they top three are all listed as centers, I do believe all of them can play guard and sometimes tackle as well. With the many injuries the Colts have experienced the last two years, taking the best offensive lineman on the board makes the most sense to me...and Peyton Manning.

28. Philadelphia Eagles via Panthers-Chris Wells, RB, Ohio State
Chris Wells is that relief that Westbrook so desperately needs. Westbrook hasn't been known to be the most durable running back in recent years so giving a back who can take a pounding makes sense, especially in this two running back age we seem to be coming to.

29. New York Giants-LeSean McCoy, RB, Pitt
Either Ward or Jacobs is likely out of New York via free agency, and where Bradshaw is a good change of pace back, they need another back who can stand out. In enters LeSean McCoy, as the rest of the NFC East groans at the continued pound and ground of the Giants.

30. Tennessee Titans-Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina
Whether the QB is Kerry Collins or Vince Young, the Titans need to get them some weapons. Nicks is a tall, powerful, sure handed wide receiver whose style of play I would liken very much to Palaxico Burress. The nice thing is there are no reports of Nicks shooting himself in the leg yet.

31. Arizona Cardinals-James Laurinaitis, ILB, Ohio State
The fact that the Road Warrior could fall so far is a crying shame. Of course if the Browns end up with two lower end first round picks, he could come off the board to them, but then I have a conflict between the Road Warrior and Son of Matthews. The Cards are gonna lose some folks via free agency, but this makes the best sense to me.

32. Pittsburgh Steelers-William Beatty, OT, UConn
Though Big Ben gave them a bunch of credit after they won, the weak spot on this team is still the offensive line. William Beatty has been relatively unknown, but this kid is shooting up the charts since, according to one sight, he's 6'6" 300lbs and moves like a power forward.

ROUND TWO
1. Detroit Lions-DJ Moore, CB, Vanderbilt
A crime he could slip this far, my favorite seccondary player in this draft.

2. St Louis Rams-Jamon Meredith, OT/G, South Carolina
If they don't start protecting Mark Bulger they're not gonna have a quarterback left.

3. Kansas City Chiefs-Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas State
The quarterback with the biggest upside comes from a local college, bonus round.

4. Cleveland Browns-Clay Matthews, OLB, USC
Look, this is the only pick I care about with the Browns. It is a sign of a return to glory if once again there is a Clay Matthews in the linebacker corps.

5. Seattle Seahawks-Derrick Williams, WR, Penn State
They went through an entire offense of wide outs last year, this one at least gives them return ability as well.

6. Cincinnati Bengals-Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech
Easily the most athletically gifted defensive end in the draft, sadly getting drafted by the Bengals ruins your career.

7. Jacksonville Jaguars-Jason Phillips, ILB, TCU
A player that is under the radar for a lot of people, I consider this an upgrade over Peterson.

8. Oakland Raiders-Fili Moala, DT, USC
Do you think Tom Cable is happy that one of his starters is Gerrard Warren?

9. Green Bay Packers-Duke Robinson, G, Oklahoma
Probably has first round talent, the Packers get a real steal with him falling this far.

10. Buffalo Bills-Eric Wood, C, Louisville
Every other AFC East team runs the 3-4, Wood is the biggest Center of the top three.

11. San Francisco 49ers-Kenny Britt, WR, Rutgers
A solid possession receiver who should make Singletary very happy with his style of play.

12. Miami Dolphins via Redskins-Larry English, OLB/DE, Northern Illinois
A 3-4 outside backer, a very hard player who should make the Parcells team very happy.

13. New York Giants via Saints-Rashad Johnson, S, Alabama
A pretty solid with some ball hawking ability, should be a good fit for that defense.

14. Houston Texans-Max Unger, C, Oregon
They're now the zone blocking team of the NFL, the perfect place for my favorite lineman in the draft.

15. New England Patriots via Chargers-Sean Smith, CB/S, Utah
Sean Smith is a playmaker, and can play any spot in the secondary, perfect for the Patriots.

16. Denver Broncos-Juaquin Iglesias, WR, Oklahoma
The Broncos need a weapon since who knows whats up with Brandon Marshall, perfect number 3 receiver.

17. Chicago Bears-Fenuki Tupou, OT, Oregon
The Bears offensive tackles resemble the Eagles' too much, broken and old.

18. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Pat White, WR, West Virginia
Maybe hedging his bets, I'm starting to think Pat White may just be an NFL QB yet.

19. Dallas Cowboys-Herman Johnson, G, LSU
The biggest baby ever born in Louisiana, his size is the perfect fit for the Cowboys.

20. New York Jets-Louis Delmas, S, Western Michigan
A talented safety, Rob Ryan knows his defense needs those players to succeed.

21. Philadelphia Eagles-Marcus Freeman, OLB, Ohio State
Gocong and Bradley are impressive, Freeman makes it three.

22. Minnesota Vikings-Brandon LaFell, WR, LSU
The wide receivers for Minnesota currently are Berrian and...

23. Atlanta Falcons-Chase Coffman, TE, Missouri
They currently have decent tight ends, Coffman has the ability to be one of the best.

24. Miami Dolphins-Sen-Derrick Marks, DT, Auburn
Not a fan of the player, but could thrive as a DE in the 3-4.

25. Baltimore Ravens-Darry Beckwith, ILB, LSU
At best they're only gonna keep two out of the three free agent linebackers.

26. New England Patriots-Asher Allen, CB, Utah
I know, two corners in the same round, but it would make quite the tandem for them.

27. Carolina Panthers-Jerry Hughes, DE, TCU
I'm guessing they can keep Gross, but Peppers already has his bags packed. This could be the steal of the draft though.

28. Indianapolis Colts-Sean Witherspoon, OLB, Missouri
Is solid and has depth, except at the weakside backer.

29. New York Giants-Ricky Jean-Franocis, DT, LSU
They swap defensive lineman in out like Trump does toupees.

30. Tennessee Titans-Travis Beckum, TE, Wisconsin
The Antonio Gates model, more about receiving then blocking, just giving them another target.

31. Arizona Cardinals-Trevor Cannfield, G, Cincinnati
They have to start protecting the QB better...imagine what could have been if they had.

32. Pittsburgh Steelers-Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU
They tend to stockpile defensive players.

ROUND THREE
1. Detroit Lions-Cullen Harper, QB, Clemson

2. St Louis Rams-William Moore, S, Missouri

3. Kansas City Chiefs-Scott McKillop, ILB, Pitt

4. Seattle Seahawks-Shonn Greene, RB, Iowa

5. Dallas Cowboys via Browns-Ron Brace, DT, Boston College

6. Cincinnati Bengals-Adam Uiatowski, OT, Texas

7. Oakland Raiders-Victor Harris, CB, Virginia Tech

8. Jacksonville Jaguars-Mohammed Massaquoi, WR, Goergia

9. Green Bay Packers-Jonathan Casillas, OLB, Wisconsin

10. San Francisco 49ers-Nate Davis, QB, Ball State

11. Buffalo Bills-George Selvie, DE, South Florida

12. New York Jets via Saints-Drew Willy, QB, Buffalo

13. Houston Texans-Tyrone McKenzie, OLB, South Florida

14. San Diego Chargers-Donald Brown, RB, UConn


15. Denver Broncos-Dannell Ellerbe, ILB, Georgia

16. Washington Redskins-Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan

17. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Darius Butler, CB, UConn

18. Detroit Lions via Cowboys-Shawn Nelson, TE, Southern Miss

19. Green Bay Packers via Jets-Evander Hood, DT, Missouri

20. Chicago Bears-Louis Murphy, WR, Florida

21. Philadelphia Eagles-Kevin Ellison, SS, USC

22. Minnesota Vikings-Jared Cook, TE, South Carolina

23. Miami Dolphins-Phil Loadholt, OT, Oklahoma

24. Baltimore Ravens-Keenan Lewis, CB, Oregon St

25. New England Patriots-Jeremiah Johnson, RB, Oregon

26. Atlanta Falcons-Brian Robiskie, WR, Ohio State

27. Indianapolis Colts-Mike Mickens, CB, Cincinnati

28. Carolina Panthers-Alex Magee, DT, Purdue

29. New York Giants-Ramses Barden, WR, Cal Poly

30. Tennessee Titans-Kraig Urbik, G, Wisconsin

31. Arizona Cardinals-Paul Kruger, DE, Utah

32. Pittsburgh Steelers-Derek Pegues, FS, Mississippi State

2009 NFL Mock Draft V1.0 Rounds 1-3

Since the deadline has come and gone in regards to underclassmen, entering and staying, so I felt it was safe enough to finally release my first mock draft for 2009. This is going to be an interesting draft to say the least. The big talent isn't the usual "skills" department, though there are a few there. This will be big in lineman, linebackers and corners. Now the order below is based on the regular season, it will change after the Super Bowl. At that time 2.0 will come out with the correct draft order, 3.0 will follow the combine.

ROUND ONE
1. Detroit Lions-Matt Stafford, QB, Georgia
The Lions have the benefit of having five draft picks within the first three rounds of this draft. This of course is due to sending Roy Williams to Dallas for a bounty of picks. Now if they are not successful at getting Matt Cassell from the Patriots I believe they will take Stafford number one. Now I wouldn't be surprised if this ends up being Mark Sanchez as I could very easily seeing him move above Stafford in the months ahead.

2. St Louis Rams-Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
Orlando Pace is getting up in the years and the Rams need to get his replacement, and this draft is the perfect opportunity to do so. I could see them going after Aaron Curry or Maybin or even Malcolm Jenkins, but I believe the teams sees the weakness they had last year at protecting the QB.

3. Kansas City Chiefs-Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest
To me this is the biggest question mark in the draft. What the Chiefs do here will either shock no one or cause a furry of moves up and down the draft. I thought about Sanchez but threw it out. I thought an offensive lineman, but Pioli knows he can get that later in the draft. I went with Curry because Pioli will take the best available, and he saw what Mayo did this last season.


4. Seattle Seahawks-Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
This pick could send Matt Hasselback crying for days with tears of joy. I don't know if he's ever really had a receiving threat, let alone the talent of Crabtree. I guess its that old saying, good things come to those who wait. Of course the Seahawks are notorious about moving down and almost always out of the first round, so don't be surprised to see them move.

5. Cleveland Browns-Michael Oher, OT, Ole Miss
Let me be frank, I don't expect the Browns to stay at the number five spot. They have no third round pick and I did the trade value chart and could easily move down to 20 with the Lions, pick up their second and the Cowboys third rounder for the fifth pick. If they don't I went with Oher over Jenkins and Maualuga simply because I think their right tackle spot is a much bigger concern then corner and linebacker. Well, I should say that this is too early for Maualuga and I'm still not sold that there needs to be such a high priced corner in Cleveland with McDonald and Wright there.

6. Cincinnati Bengals-Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia
I know this pick doesn't make a whole hell of a lot of sense to some people, the Bengals obviously need more defensive help then anything. Then again its the Bungles and they don't really have a running threat at the moment and Moreno may be too tempting to pass up. I could see Jenkins, Maybin or one of the tackles here as well.

7. Oakland Raiders-Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri
Al Davis loves one thing, speed. This would be the thrid straight year where you saw the Raiders getting some of the most devistating offensive players in college football with their first round pick. The bonus to Maclin is his return ability, which Oakland is probably already drooling over.

8. Jacksonville Jaguars-Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC
I don't see Mike Peterson staying in Jacksonville after everything that has transpired this year. I do see Jack Del Rio falling in love with Maualuga, with his ability and his passion for the game. I think he'll fit in very nicely with that defense.

9. Green Bay Packers-Aaron Maybin, DE, Penn St
The thing that hurt the Packers defense this year was the complete lack of a pass rush. Taking Maybin over Brown and Orakpo I think will have more to do with where he played (a cold climate) then anything else. Maybin knows how to play that Packers style of defense and should meld in well, though I don't know if I see constant Pro Bowler in him.

10. San Francisco 49ers-Everette Brown, DE, Florida St
This will make SayHey and his clone very happy. The Niners are also a team that is in need of some pressure on opposing QBs, and Brown has a pretty decent motor in that category. I'm not sure if he'd play linebacker or defensive end in the current scheme, but I think under Singletary's wing he could become quite a factor in the NFC West.

11. Buffalo Bills-Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia
I have the Bills take Monroe over Smith for the simple fact that Monroe is more versatile. He can play guard as well as tackle and with the history of Buffalo linemen lately, they need someone with the skill to be able to do that.

12. Denver Broncos-Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio St
It should be a crime for Malcolm Jenkins to fall this far, and I don't believe he will. If he gets past the Browns at five, don't be surprised if teams start calling every team up there to get a shot at Malcolm Jenkins. Here he'd take over for Dre Bly and team with Champ Bailey in what could very well be the best cornerback duo in the entire league.

13. Washington Redskins-Jason Smith, OT, Baylor
I've talked to my Redskins fan friends and they all seem to think defensive end, defensive end. Sorry I just cannot agree with that. They have no second round pick, and with the way their line is aging (not to mention performing) I have to go with an offensive tackle here. Jim Zorn knows the benefits of having a solid tackle (read Wlater Jones) protect your QB.

14. New Orleans Saints-BJ Raji, DT, Boston College
The Saints only have one pick in the first three rounds. Thanks to Vilma and Shockey they are pretty much gunning for one star and then getting depth. I went with BJ Raji because I LOVE the idea of paring him next to Sedrick Ellis and dominating the inside of the line. We've seen what Minnesota has been able to do with two dominate defensive tackles, and I think we may see an attempt at that here.

15. Houston Texans-Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas
If Orakpo lasts to the Texans I imagine I will be hearing plenty of gunfire in the streets if they make this pick. Super Mario is playing out of his mind down here and needs someone on the otherside to balance out his act. The duo of Williams and Orakpo may just be the most athletic defensive end duo in the league.

16. San Diego Chargers-Chris Wells, RB, Ohio St
The Chargers don't have a second round pick, and likely will go for something else here, but I very well could see them snatching Beanie Wells up if he falls to 16. With either LT or Sprolles gone from the team next year, they need that second back that they've been doing since before the Jaguars and Giants made it the thing to do.

17. New York Jets-Mark Sanchez, QB, USC
This pick I'm sure will shock plenty out there. Whether Favre comes back or not I can see the Jets making this pick. They're obviously not sold on Kellen Clemens and even if Brett comes back he's gonna need a replacement. Sanchez played in LA, knows what its like being in the limelight and likely could handle the New York media and fans.

18. Chicago Bears-Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois
The Bears will be salivating if Davis falls to them at 18. For the last few years their achilles heel on defense has been that their secondary has not been able to stay healthy an entire season. Davis played locally and would be an immediate hit with the fan base. He's also a big time play maker, which should excite Lovie Smith since he doesn't really have one in the secondary.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Eben Britton, OT, Arizona
They began last year by taking Trueblood, now I think they get another offensive tackle to shore up that offensive line. The last of the real first round tackles, Gruden must do something to keep those monsters in the NFC South off of Jeff Garcia, and open some holes for Graham, Dunn and Williams. I also could see them going after DJ Moore at this spot as well.

20. Detroit Lions via Cowboys-DJ Moore, CB, Vanderbilt
I do believe that the Lions will try moving back into the top five, hopefully with the Browns (who would then select Laurinaitis here) and take one of the top offensive tackles. If that does not happen I cannot see Jim Schwartz passing up and being able to get DJ Moore all the way at the 20th pick. For me, DJ Moore is the best corner in the draft. Whenever I see this kid play it's something amazing. He's the first college corner in a long time that made me see visions of Prime Time in my head.

21. Arizona Cardinals-LeSean McCoy, RB, Pitt
I think we all know that The Edge is gonna be gone from Arizona no matters what happens this season. Hightower is a decent back, but they're gonna need someone else as he's not an every down back. Enter in LeSean McCoy who likely decided upon the draft knowing that he'd be going in the first round and had a much better chance this year then he does next year.

22. Philadelphia Eagles-Percy Harvin, WR, Florida
I do believe the Eagles saw a resurgence this year in part of DeSean Jackson. He was their first receiver since TO who was truly a playmaker and not just a possession receiver. Speed is the key word, and that's something Harvin has plenty of. He's also an extreme competitor and should get along great with the locals. Since they have two first round picks they can afford to take a shot like this.

23. Minnesota Vikings-Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma St
Some may scratch their heads, but I feel the one key element this offense is missing is a playmaking tight end. They have decent tight ends now, but Pettirgrew and Coffman are those tight ends who play more like wideouts then the OG TEs. It also helps that this may will try to level anyone who attempts to tackle him.

24. New England Patriots-Brian Cushing, OLB, USC
Cushing is the perfect player for the Patriots style of defense. He has played many different positions at USC, and for a team that loves their players to be versatile, he's the perfect choice. Their linebacking corps is getting up there in age, I think drafting Mayo last year was a sign the Patriots are reloading their D.

25. Atlanta Falcons-Chase Coffman, TE, Missouri
Matt Ryan always played in an offense that relied heavily on a tight end and I feel that's a position they're missing on the Falcons. Their current corps are solid football players, but Coffman is a playmaker who can block and catch. I think it makes sense to give Ryan this kind of target, plus there's not much else worth taking for the Falcons at this spot.

26. Miami Dolphins-Michael Johnson, DE/OLB, Georgia Tech
talk about the perfect fit, Michael Johnson is that perfect tweener type player for the Parcells defense. If the Cowboys had a first rounder, he'd likely be gone. Their loss is Miami's gain...again. I think he should be rated much higher as all he does is makes plays, but since teams focused on him more this year his stock dropped a bit, so much the better for the Dolphins.

27. Baltimore Ravens-Darius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland
Joe Flacco needs weapons, lots of them, and Derrick Mason isn't exactly a spring chicken anymore. Taking the local kid is almost always smiled upon by a community and the Ravens fan base do love their Terrapins. Depending on what happens in free agency I can see them going harder after a linebacker, but as of right now I think this takes precedent.

28. Indianapolis Colts-James Laurinaitis, ILB, Ohio St
Crime, likely a crime if the Road Warrior fell all the way to number 28. Of course if my Browns trade thoughts are true, this won't happen, but time will tell. That being said, I think he'd fit in nicely with the Colts.

29. Philadelphia Eagles vis Panthers-Duke Robinson, G, Oklahoma
Some of the Eagles offensive linemen are getting older, best to take the number one guard now. If they don't if the Steelers don't snag him up, some other team very assuredly will before the Eagles are back on the board.

30. Pittsburgh Steelers-Phil Loadholt, OT, Oklahoma
We all know the struggles the Steelers have had at the offensive line this year after losing their entire right side, but they've hung in there do to superior coaching. I think you see the Steelers really attack this in the draft and short up that trenches so to speak.

31. New York Giants-Peria Jerry, DT, Ole Miss
There's not much the Giants need when you look at their roster. Who knows what would have happened if their teams was fully healthy...or not suspended for being a dumbass. You can never have enough solid defensive tackles, and we know they like products from Ole Miss so I think Peria Jerry makes the most sense here at 31.

32. Tennessee Titans-Fili Moala, DT, USC
The second straight defensive tackle, you'll probably wondering why, but you should already know the answer. I don't know if the Titans can hold on to Albert Haynesworth, and with that in mind I had to give them selecting a defensive tackle to replace or eventually replace Haynesworth.

ROUND TWO
1. Detroit Lions-Jerry Hughes, DE, TCU
People are sleeping on him, if you watch the film he should be the number one defensive end.

2. St Louis Rams-Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest
I doubt Smith actually falls in to the second round, but the Rams would be fools to pass on him if he does.

3. Kansas City Chiefs-Herman Johnson, G, LSU
Still trying to get their offensive line away from AARP, you gotta get the biggest guard maybe ever.

4. Cleveland Browns-Clay Matthews, OLB, USC
Look, this is the only pick I care about with the Browns. It is a sign of a return to glory if once again there is a Clay Matthews in the linebacker corps.

5. Seattle Seahawks-Donald Brown, RB, UConn
Julius Jones, played decent, not sure if he's the answer.

6. Cincinnati Bengals-Sen'Derrick Marks, DT, Auburn
I no longer trust the Bengals to do anything intelligent, hence they take the walking bust.

7. Jacksonville Jaguars-Kenny Britt, WR, Rutgers
Does Garrard have any weapons that isn't on drugs or charges?

8. Oakland Raiders-Asher Allen, CB, Georgia
I'll be shocked if they can keep NA, if they don't they need a replacement.

9. Green Bay Packers-Sean Smith, CB, Utah
The secocndary is getting a bit long in the tooth if you know what I mean.

10. Buffalo Bills-Jared Cook, TE, South Carlina
The wide receiving corps is pretty solid now, how bout giving them a playmaking tight end?

11. San Francisco 49ers-Clint Sintim, OLB, Virginia
Another DE/OLB tweener that should fit well in the 49ers style of defense.

12. Miami Dolphins via Redskins-Jamon Meredith, OT, South Carolina
It's always defense and linemen when it comes to a Parcells draft.

13. New York Giants via Saints-Trevor Cannfield, G, Cincinnati
A pretty solid offensive line in New York, but also ones almost ready to get their AARP cards.

14. Houston Texans-Max Unger, C, Oregon
They're now the zone blocking team of the NFL, the perfect place for my favorite lineman in the draft.

15. New England Patriots via Chargers-Fenuki Tupou, OT, Oregon
Another team that has a very solid offensive line, but also one who are getting up there in age.

16. Denver Broncos-Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU
The Broncos have been trying to find pass rushing for years...they're gonna have to keep looking.

17. Chicago Bears-Juaquin Iglesias, WR, Oklahoma
Kyle Orton may be Trent Dilfer's son, but even Dilfer had weapons on occassion.

18. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Victor Macho Harris, CB, Virginia Tech
Ronde Barber may be going to the Pro Bowl, but he'll be eating at 4pm at Dennys.

19. Dallas Cowboys-Sean Witherspoon, OLB, Missouri
You may see quite of few older Cowboys released this spring, someone has to replace them.

20. Arizona Cardinals-Alex Mack, C, Cal
Rosenthal and Grimm are offensive line guys, and this is a solid centerpiece to the line.

21. New York Jets-Brandon LaFell, WR, LSU
Does Coles or Cotchery really strike fear into you? Didn't think so.

22. Philadelphia Eagles-Shonn Greene, RB, Iowa
Westbrook has never been one stay fully healthy, why not get someone who can take the pounding?

23. Minnesota Vikings-Evander Hood, DT, Missouri
One of the Williamses may be out for part of the year due to steroids, gotta get something from ruining the beginning of the season.

24. Atlanta Falcons-William Moore, FS/SS, Missouri
Lets put it this way, I think the Falcons starting safeties played during Bush...senior.

25. Miami Dolphins-Nate Davis, QB, Ball St
I know, I know, this makes no sense, but something in the back of my head is just nagging at me that this is correct.

26. Baltimore Ravens-Darry Beckwith, ILB, LSU
Ray Lewis has been around for a very long time, and who knows if he'll be with the team.

27. New England Patriots-Patrick Chung, SS, Oregon
Rodney Harrison I believed played in the Chargers last Super Bowl, yeah, he's that old.

28. Carolina Panthers-Adam Uiatowski, OT, Texas
Word has it they can afford Peppers or Gross, not both. Can you guess which one I think they'll keep?

29. Pittsburgh Steelers-Kraig Urbik, G, Wisconsin
The construction of the new right side of the line continues at a level pace.

30. Indianapolis Colts-Ricky Jean-Francois, DT, LSU
The Colts always seem to run through defensive tackles during the last couple of years don't they.

31. New York Giants-Jason Phillips, ILB, TCU
This kid is a stud, should be a first rounder, there's no reason he should fall this far.

32. Tennessee Titans-Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina
You could make the argument of who has fewer weapons the Bears or the Titans.

ROUND THREE
1. Detroit Lions-Alex Boone, OT, Ohio St

2. St Louis Rams-George Selvie, DE, South Florida

3. Kansas City Chiefs-Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas St

4. Seattle Seahawks-Andy Levitre, G, Oregon St

5. Dallas Cowboys via Browns-Ray Feinga, G, BYU

6. Cincinnati Bengals-Derrick Williams, WR, Penn St

7. Oakland Raiders-Alex Magee, DT, Purdue

8. Jacksonville Jaguars-Jonathan Lugis, C, Arkansas

9. Green Bay Packers-Vince Oghobasse, DT, Duke

10. Buffalo Bills-Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan

11. San Francisco 49ers-Graham Harrell, QB, Texas Tech

12. New York Jets via Saints-Kevin Ellison, SS, USC

13. Houston Texans-Darius Butler, CB, UConn

14. San Diego Chargers-Marcus Freeman, OLB, Ohio St

15. Denver Broncos-Javon Ringer, RB, Michigan St

16. Washington Redskins-Paul Kruger, DE, Utah

17. Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Dannelle Ellerbe, ILB, Georgia

18. Detroit Lions via Cowboys-Antoine Caldwell, C, Alabama

19. Arizona Cardinals-Worrell Williams, ILB, Cal

20. Green Bay Packers via Jets-Troy Kropog, OT, Tulane

21. Chicago Bears-Terrance Taylor, DT, Michigan

22. Philadelphia Eagles-Derek Pegues, FS, Mississippi St

23. Minnesota Vikings-Scott McKillop, ILB, Pitt

24. Miami Dolphins-Keenan Lewis, CB, Oregon St

25. Baltimore Ravens-Larry English, OLB, Northern Illinois

26. New England Patriots-James Davis, RB, Clemson

27. Atlanta Falcons-Louis Vasquez, G, Texas Tech

28. Pittsburgh Steelers-Matt Shaughnessy, DE, Wisconsin

29. Indianapolis Colts-Mike Mickens, CB, Cincinnati

30. Carolina Panthers-Travis Beckum, TE, Wisconsin

31. New York Giants-Augustus Parrish, OT, Kent St

32. Tennessee Titans-Mohammed Massaquoi, WR, Georgia

NFL Draft Review AFC West

Ah the AFC West, very similar to the AFC East, where there is one dominate team, one team clearly rebuilding, one getting closer, and one who believes they aren't really rebuilding when they clearly are. When three quarters of your division drafts before pick 15 you know you're not very good.


DENVER BRONCOS
NEEDS: WR, OL, DL, CB, ILB
DRAFT PICKS: OT Ryan Clady, WR Eddie Royal, G Kory Lichtensteiger, CB Jack Williams, RB Ryan Torain, DT Carlton Powell, LB Spencer Larsen, DB Josh Barrett and RB Peyton Hillis
APPROVED PICKS: Clady, Williams, Larsen, Barrett
EVENTUAL BUSTS: Royal, Powell
REVIEW: It's not quit 50 50 on whether I like this draft or not. I think they got some great pieces in this draft, filled some needs, but at the same made some blatantly ridiculous picks. I like Ryan Clady, I think he landed at the perfect place for him. The Denver zone blocking scheme I think is perfect for the style of football he plays and should be starting week 1. It takes a special kind of player to get me to like a kid from Virginia Tech, and sorry Royal and Powell both leave me wanting. The entire program is filled with athletic ability, with nothing but underachievers. You see that this year especially, having so many kids drafted and yet making no noise in the national title picture. Lichtensteiger I think has the potential to be a special type of player with Denver, one of their classic stories of playing for the team for 15 years. This is also true of Jack Williams, who I think a lot of teams overlooked. He is blazing fast and should be something special learning from Champ Bailey. The two picks that I thought were just phe-nominal came towards the end with the selection of Larsen and Barrett. These are two players that you're gonna wake up one day and wonder where the hell they came from and how could anyone have missed out on drafting these players.
GRADE: B

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
NEEDS: QB, WR, OL, DL, CB
DRAFT PICKS: DT Glenn Dorsey, G Branden Albert, CB Brandon Flowers, RB Jamaal Charles, TE Brad Cottam, S DaJuan Morgan, WR Will Franklin, CB Brandon Carr, OT Barry Richardson, WR Kevin Robinson, DE Brian Johnston and TE Michael Merritt
APPROVED PICKS: Dorsey, Albert, Charles, Carr
EVENTUAL BUSTS: Cottam, Morgan
REVIEW: Without a doubt this is the best draft class of any team this year. I know they didn't address the quarterback position, but Croyle could shock people and finally come around this year. Dorsey was one of my favorite players in this draft as he is the epitome of a FOOTBALL player. I like the selection of Branden Albert, though I don't know if he'll be as dominant as folks expect him to be. Flowers will flourish under Herm Edwards and is the only VA Tech player I really liked that was drafted. Jamaal Charles may very well turn Larry Johnson expendable if LJ keeps on with his attitude. Brad Cottam and DaJuan Morgan are two players that never really impressed me. Yes, they have talent out the ass, but they reek of lollygaggers, this draft is so deep though that it doesn't hurt them. Franklin should do well in this system and Carr may be the perfect compliment to Brandon Flowers. Barry Richardson is a solid tackle, one I really like, and should end up starting for the Chiefs. Robinson gives them that return man they've been missing since Dante Hall went across the state and became a Ram. I like Johnston, he's a project, but he's a project that could reap huge dividends if he adjusts to the NFL level of play.
GRADE: A+

OAKLAND RAIDERS
NEEDS: WR, OL, DL, LB, S
DRAFT PICKS:RB Darren McFadden, CB Tyvon Branch, WR Arman Shields, DE Trevor Scott and WR Chaz Schilens
APPROVED PICKS: Branch, Shields, Scott
EVENTUAL BUSTS:McFadden
REVIEW:Go ahead and look at the needs listed, do you see running back anywhere? No? You know why that is? Because the last thing they needed was a fucking running back. I understand that the Godfather wanted his second death star after his first one, Bo Jackson, was blown up by some hot shot kid in a Orange and Black helmet but this is ridiculous. You should have made the faithful happy, traded up to number 2 and taken the son of Howie. With that said I think Branch, Shields and Scott should do very well in the NFL. I say the NFL cause lord knows if the Godfather will allow them the time they need to develop to the NFL level. Of course he chose Chaz, they guys size and attributes guaranteed that Al Davis would make him a Raider. My only wish is that we'd trade something, maybe one of the Smiths, to Oakland in exchange for Michael Bush.
GRADE: D+

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS
NEEDS: RB, OL, DL, DB
DRAFT PICKS: CB Antoine Cason, FB Jacob Hester, RB Marcus Thomas, CB DeJuan Tribble and OT Corey Clark
APPROVED PICKS: Cason, Hester
EVENTUAL BUSTS: Tribble
REVIEW: All should learn to trust in the early round selections of AJ Smith. I don't know of a GM in the last twenty years who has had more first and second round picks become stars in the NFL. That being said, gotta love the selection of Antoine Cason by the Chargers. Putting him opposite of Cromartie will actually make Norv Turner look like he can actually be a Head Coach in the NFL. They let go of Lorenzo Neal so trading up to get Jacob Hester was inspired and very well done. He may not be Neal, but he can run the ball effectively, unlike Neal so it's a bonus. Marcus Thomas is an intriguing pick as I think he can be the pounder the Chargers haven't had at running back. They have had back who can run outside the tackle, but not so much one that will go between the guards and run folks over. I don't like the Tribble pick, even at that spot in the sixth round. Taking a chance at one of the wide receivers available may have paid off more. Corey Clark is a decent pick. He comes in with great size and a decent skill set. If he can improve he could fight for playing time.
GRADE: A-

My Favorite Teams This Coming Weekend

The NFL has released "playoff scenarios" of what teams have to do to clinch a playoff spot this weekend. I was very happy to see that my very own Cleveland Browns need to win, and have Tennessee and Denver both lose their games (since ties rarely happen anymore). Therefore, along with my beloved Browns I will be rooting on my future hometown team, the Houston Texans, and the Kansas City Chiefs.

The Chiefs will be playing the Titans, which will be the toughest of the two games for the team to win. Their defense should be up to the task of limiting the Titans offense, the problem of course lies in their lackluster offense. I don't know how they can score points, but they are playing a Titans offense which has struggled this season. So I am calling upon Texas alumni, namely Derrick Johnson, to make some defensive plays that enable the Chiefs to rack up a victory. It is difficult for me to root against Vince Young, but I must do what I must to get the Browns into the playoffs.

The Texans go up against the Broncos, who I don't believe are nearly as good as their record indicates. Their defense is stout, and should play exceptionally well against a feeble Denver offense who is relying on another Texas alum, Selmon Young. Sage Rosenfels has the Texans offense playing well enough to beat the Broncos' defense that can be spotty at time and I believe the Texans can accomplish this task.

Then of course the Browns themselves must beat the third team vying for the final wild card spot in the Buffalo Bills. It helps that we will be playing at home, but the weather won't make a difference, they are from Buffalo after all. I would like us to concentrate on stopping a great run offense and make Trent Edwards make plays. I am a fan of this Bills team, but respecting them only goes so far, time to show the NFL the Browns are for real.