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April 2009 News
Tim Ruskell: On Drugs
Published: April 26, 2009
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Sure, April 25th was a good day for the city of Seattle. Not even close to best ever, but it was good…well, sort of.
We got our man, Aaron Curry, the stud Wake Forest LB, expected to complete the league’s best young LB trio.
The Sounders moved to 4-2 by beating San Jose (those two losses could even be held in question because we did not have our goalkeeper due to thinking outside the box, literally).
The Mariners almost gave it away, but hung on for a one-run win over a team who has plenty of W’s over them in recent memory.
But another event occurred on April 25th that just puts a very unpleasant taste in your mouth if you’re a supporter of the Seattle Seahawks.
Seeing the headline “Seahawks remove franchise tag from Leroy Hill”
What the f*#k were they thinking? Honestly?
You just draft Curry, form the top trio of LB’s in the entirety of the league, then you get rid of your second stud LB from said top trio; just mind boggling
I have been very positive about the JP trade because in the long run it yielded us Curry, and a starting DE, Cory Redding, who should provide us a huge upgrade. The trade made us younger and better.
We did literally just release Hill, getting rid of a second LB from a group that was the strength of the defense, and one of the league’s best.
Sure, you have a lot of money tied up there, but that’s why it was going to be the league’s best, you don’t have the league’s best for cheap.
All for what, $8 million? Sure it’s a good chunk of money, but for the money you are saving, you just tore apart the league’s best trio of LB’s.
We also just traded our 2010 third-rounder for another tiny receiver. Seahawks, you sure do know how to go from brilliance to dud in 24 hours.
We get a rookie pool so signing Curry, Unger, Deon, and Teel is not the issue.
We have been interested in signing Ken Lucas, which would be great. I can guarantee we could have made a less significant cut to free up the money to sign him.
Matt Hasselbeck would probably redo his contract if it meant helping to keep Leroy and sign Ken.
I would absolutely love to see Ken Lucas signed here; in fact, I have lobbied for it. At the price of Hill, and the desecration of what could be the league’s top trio of LB’s for ten or more years, no stank you.
If they sign Derrick Brooks or Freddie Keiahlo, then the move could make more sense. Sure they’re not as good as Hill, but they’re on the same level at least.
Knowing Ruskell, the following are most likely what will happen: He won’t sign Lucas, then sign Derrick Brooks, he will sign Lucas and not re-sign Hill, or he might re-sign Hill and then not sign Lucas. In other words, he just won’t finish the defense.
He has to leave one hole open, of course. Sure D.D. Lewis can start; he started in 2005. But who would you rather have, Hill or Lewis? All of a sudden you have a liability where a strength once was.
The last time the Seahawks pulled a stunt like this, they ended up making it brilliant. So hopefully I’m wrong, but only time will tell.
Timmy, get it right. You made my favorite coach walk, but don’t tear apart the best thing this team has going.
John Madden: A Tribute
Published: April 26, 2009
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Last week, commentator John Madden announced his retirement from the broadcasting booth, putting an end to what has been a great career with the game of football.
To many, Madden’s name right now is more synonymous with video games and impressions by comedian Frank Caliendo but for those that don’t know, Madden meant so much more than that to football. We’re going to take a look back at the life and career of Madden and see why he meant so much to the game of football and to fans as he did.
Madden’s career can be traced back to his time Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where he was an offensive and defensive lineman on the football team and a catcher on the baseball team.
Madden earned all-conference honors as an offensive tackle and played well enough in college to be selected in the NFL Draft, where he was picked 244th overall by the Philadelphia Eagles. A knee injury prevented Madden from ever playing a down in the NFL but he quickly got into coaching.
Madden’s first head coaching job came two years after he started coaching when he took over the helm at Allan Hancock College in Santa Monica, California. Two years later, he was hired as a defensive assistant at San Diego State, where he served under the legendary Don Coryell.
Three years later Madden was hired by the Oakland Raiders as a linebackers coach and just two years after that, in 1969, Madden became the head coach of the Raiders. At the time he was 33-years-old, making him the youngest head coach in the history of the league, but team owner Al Davis believed in him and the move would pay off.
Madden served as the Raiders’ head coach for ten years, where he posted an overall record of 103-32-7, won Super Bowl XI, and never had a losing season. His career winning percentage of 76.3 still ranks as the all-time best in the league. At the time, he also became the youngest coach to reach 100 wins.
Upon retiring from coaching in 1978, Madden decided to remain close to the game. He soon began his 30-year broadcasting career that saw him earn a number of accomplishments.
During his time as a broadcaster, Madden worked for all four of the big networks (ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC), was a member of the Monday Night Football crew, and called all types of games ranging from preseason to the Super Bowl. The only game he did not call was the Pro Bowl because his fear of flying prevented him from traveling to Hawaii.
For his work, Madden picked up 16 Emmy Awards and was honored by the Pro Football Hall of Fame with the Pete Rozelle Radio-Television Award in 2002.
Madden became familiar to a new audience in 1988 when he decided to lend his name to a football video game produced by EA Sports. The game gained popularity in the 1990s, but saw most of its innovation occur after 2000 when it appeared on the Playstation 2 and Xbox consoles. Over 21 years, the game has sold more than 40 million copies and in 2006 it grossed more $100 million the first week after its release.
What endeared Madden as a broadcaster to the viewers and fans was his ability to relate to the average person. Madden was not trained or educated in broadcast journalism or broadcasting.
He often used words like “boom” and “bang” to illustrate his point and his use of a telestrator left a lot to be desired. But it didn’t matter because he was able to relate the game in a way nobody before him had. He created the All-Madden team, which is a list of players he felt accentuated the way the game was supposed to be played.
In recent years, it has become common for people to make fun of Madden for the way he speaks on air, including his “Maddenisms” and constant references to former quarterback Brett Favre.
Most notably it is Caliendo, whose impression of Madden is accurate and funny, that most fans recognize. But while poking fun at Madden can be enjoyable we must not forget the lasting impression the man had on the game of football.
A former player, Super Bowl winner and Hall of Fame broadcaster, Madden was always at the pinnacle of the game. His presence will no doubt be missed.
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For more football analyst and insight, click the link below…
Percy Harvin: A Game-Changer Or a Shape-Shifter?
Published: April 26, 2009
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When all was said and done, the Minnesota Vikings opted for the dazzle of a wideout with their first pick of the NFL Draft rather than the sturdy presence of an offensive tackle or a swift defender to man the secondary.
But will their pick be a game-changer or shape-shifter?
This is the question that haunts the Vikings after their selection of University of Florida standout Percy Harvin, whom they took with the 22nd pick.
The Vikings made a bold statement when they said they believe that Harvin’s character issues are behind him, and they upheld their vow to select the best player available when it came their turn to draft.
Harvin’s résumé includes a litany of of transgressions dating back to high school. He bumped an official during a football game in his senior year and received a two-game suspension. He was involved in a fight during a basketball game later in the year. And to top it all off, Harvin tested positive for marijuana during a drug screening at the NFL Combine in February.
Harvin’s on and off-field troubles earned him a scarlet letter of sorts. A Pro Football Weekly poll of NFL executives had the embattled Gator at the top of the list of this year’s riskiest draft prospects.
The Vikings’ brain trust also compiled a list of some four-score draft prospects who they wouldn’t draft due to character or attitude issues. They placed red dots beside their names. Obviously, Harvin didn’t make the final cut for that dubious distinction.
The fact is that, like Reggie Bush, Harvin possesses extraordinary game-breaking abilities. That’s something, despite Harvin’s occasional fits of fury and errors in judgment, the Vikings believed that they just couldn’t afford to pass up.
During his three-year collegiate career, Harvin caught 133 passes for 1929 yards and 13 touchdowns. He rushed for 1851 yards and 19 touchdowns. He was a prime mover in the Gators’ two National Championships.
In 2008, Harvin touched the ball only 110 times and produced 17 touchdowns and 1,303 yards receiving and rushing. He capped his career with 170 all-purpose yards and one touchdown in the FedEx BCS National Championship Game against Oklahoma.
Yet his big-game abilities won’t silence his critics, who are naturally wondering why the Vikings, who have had so many off-field issues with their players, would risk a first-round flyer on a player like Harvin?
Coach Brad Childress, as much as he’s detested by Vikings fans, did his part to ensure that the Vikings were making the right move. He visited Harvin last week and, following a heart-to-heart, was satisfied that the Gator has learned from his mistakes.
This doesn’t amount to a clean bill of health by any means.
University of Florida coach Urban Meyer voiced the hope that Harvin would be drafted by a team with a solid coaching staff. By this, he seems to imply coaches who can instill a solid work ethic and discipline in players.
Rick Spielman, the Vikings’ Vice President of Player Personnel, stated that the Vikings have a strong locker room which will serve as a source of support for Harvin if they sense he is leaving the straight and narrow.
With these safeguards in place, it’s up to Harvin to control his own demons.
Whichever way it goes, the Vikings’ decision will be viewed as a no-brainer, depending on your perspective.
NFL Draft: The Packers, The North, The Badgers
Published: April 26, 2009
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But I reasoned that I wouldn’t be the only male at the party more interested in following the NFL draft than in playing “name the baby animal.”
I figured that the host of the party, whom I admittedly didn’t know well, would greet all men at the door with an “I’m sorry, this was the only day that we could do this” pat on the back, a barley pop, and directions to a widescreen HDTV tuned to ESPN.
I was wrong. I didn’t hear the draft mentioned once. There was no TV tuned to ESPN or NFL Network or anything else. (I found out towards the end of the party that the hosts don’t have cable or satellite and the only television I saw was one that most self-respecting TV lovers like myself would confine to a bathroom, garage, or shed.) There was no barley pops; only a lukewarm 2-liter of Coke.
I quickly accepted my fate and resisted the urge to get draft updates via the iPhone that my wife kept in her front jeans pocket so as to avoid an argument later.
(That strategy didn’t work—I still had the argument, for reasons too convoluted to get into here.)
So I missed live coverage of the 2009 NFL Draft. But if I were superstitious, I would make it a point to miss it every year. Because the Green Bay Packers avoided the head-scratching moves of the last two drafts and actually had a stellar opening day.
GM Ted Thompson successfully fought his tendency to draft the so-called “best player available” and went with Boston College nose tackle B.J. Raji instead of Texas Tech standout wide receiver Michael Crabtree, who was then immediately snapped up by the San Francisco 49ers with the very next pick.
While Crabtree should fulfill 49ers head coach Mike Singletary’s oft-repeated cry for “winners,” Raji, at 6′ 11″ and 323 pounds, should fulfill the Packers’ need for run stoppers (105 tackles at BC) in Dom Capers’s new 3-4 scheme.
Raji has also proven to be an effective pass rusher, with 12.5 sacks in his college career, eight of those coming in 2008 alone.
Thompson then did something even more out-of-character: he traded up to get USC linebacker Clay Matthews in the second round with the 26th overall pick.
It was the first time since 1993 the Packers had two first-round picks and the first time in five years that Thompson has not traded down to get more picks. While there are some concerns that Matthews lacks experience—he started only 10 games in his USC career—Matthews was a key piece in the nation’s best scoring defense (9.0 points per game) in 2008.
And Matthews, the son of former NFL linebacker Clay Matthews Jr. and nephew of Hall of Fame offensive lineman Bruce Matthews, has football in his blood. Like Raji, Matthews could see significant playing time in his rookie season.
So who is this “Ted Thompson impersonator,” as Wisconsin State Journal columnist Tom Oates so accurately labeled him after Saturday’s sensible need-based picks?
Well, it’s pretty simple—he’s a man who, perhaps for the first time, realizes that he is in charge of a team that has real problems, and not a team that can sleepwalk its way to the top of the improving NFC North.
When told that his Saturday picks were not met with boos by fans attending the draft party at Lambeau Field, Thompson joked that Packer Nation was getting “soft.” No, Ted, you’re getting smart. You’ve taken a lot of blame lately for questionable decisions. Feel free to take credit for what appears to be two very sound draft picks.
Whereas the Packers had the most solid first day of any NFC North team, they clearly did not make the biggest splash in the division.
The Bears, by virtue of the Jay Cutler trade, and the Lions, by virtue of having the first overall pick, made sure of that.
But it is a much surer bet that—assuming they sign—the Packers will get their money’s worth from Raji and Matthews than the Bears or particularly the Lions will get their money’s worth from their new very expensive franchise quarterbacks.
The Vikings raised many eyebrows by drafting Florida wide receiver Percy Harvin with the 22nd overall pick.
While I join others in questioning Harvin’s maturity level (testing positive for drugs at the NFL combine is beyond stupidity, since players know in advance they will be tested), my main issue with the Vikings’ first-round pick relates to their quarterback situation.
Harvin could well be the finest receiver of this year’s draft class, but if a team doesn’t have a dependable quarterback—and the Vikings don’t—then using a first-round pick on a receiver seems as sound an investment as a high school kid buying a gross of condoms when he has no girlfriend and no prospects.
As long as the Vikings have Tavaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels as their quarterbacks, they will never see Harvin reach his potential.
It will be interesting to see which if any of the four Badgers drafted will be able to reach their potential in the NFL.
While offensive lineman Kriag Urbik is clearly going to the best team — Pittsburgh — I look for Travis Beckum, if he can stay healthy — to fit in very well with the Giants.
Poor Matt Shaughnessy (Raiders) and DeAndre Levy (Lions), though: Hopefully they can ride out their time with the NFL bottom-feeders and get traded along the line to better teams. Ain’t nobody in the NFL reaching their potential in Oakland and Detroit.
2009 NFL Draft: 1st Round Recap, Notes, & Observations
Published: April 26, 2009
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Detroit and Oakland surprise no one, the Saints get it right for once, and some good value slips to the latter half of the first round. Here is your recap of the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft:
1. Lions – Matthew Stafford (QB) Georgia: No surprises here. The night before, the Lions signed the 21-year-old Stafford to a six-year deal with $41.7 million in guarantees. The franchise now has a much-needed face to distract fans from that horrible new logo.
2. St. Louis – Jason Smith(OT) Baylor: Kind of a no-brainer after getting rid of Orlando Pace. Though still lacking at receiver, the offensive line and backfield has been structured to cater to Steven Jackson. No doubt it’s his team now.
3. Kansas City – Tyson Jackson(DE) LSU: Jackson will be rejoining former first round picks and LSU teammates Dwayne Bowe & Glenn Dorsey. I felt this pick was quite a stretch since Jackson wasn’t even the best defensive end on the board. The Chiefs could have traded down for Jackson if they really wanted him.
4. Seattle – Aaron Curry(OLB) Wake Forest: I’m sure Seattle was seriously considering taking Mark Sanchez here, but Curry is more of a sure thing. He fills a void left by Julian Peterson. Curry should come in right away and make an impact.
5. New York (J) (from Browns) – Mark Sanchez (QB) USC: The Jets would have rather traded to a spot closer to #10 since the teams picking after #5 weren’t in the market for a quarterback. But as this was likely the only spot in the top ten into which they could move, they had to do it to get Sanchez.
6. Cincinnati – Andre Smith (OT) Alabama: The Bengals land themselves another player with issues, albeit of the “character” variety and not the “law-breaking” variety. Smith is still probably the best offensive linemen in the draft but has to grow up in a hurry if the Bengals expect him to protect their franchise, Carson Palmer.
7. Oakland – Darrius Heyward-Bey(WR) Maryland: Total head scratcher here. Heyward-Bey isn’t even the third or fourth best receiver in the draft. Nor will he sell nearly as many tickets as Michael Crabtree. Bey’s 40 time at the combine? 4.33. Crabtree’s 40 time at the combine? None, broken foot. The other teams in the AFC West should be thanking Al Davis.
8. Jacksonville – Eugene Monroe (OT) Virginia: A very safe, but smart pick. The Jags were devastated by injuries amongst their offensive linemen. Monroe will make his presence felt immediately
9. Green Bay – B.J. Raji(DT) BC: The Packers added the most important puzzle piece missing from their new 3-4 defensive scheme: Nose Tackle. Raji is huge but athletic, the Packers get good value with this pick.
10. San Francisco – Michael Crabtree(WR) Texas Tech: The best player in the draft slipped all the way to the 49ers at #10. If they can solve their quarterback problems, San Francisco could have a very dangerous offense. Oakland will have to watch what they could have had from right across the bay. Tsk, tsk.
11. Buffalo – Aaron Maybin(DE) Penn State: I would have gone with Orakpo here, but the Bills obviously saw something in him that they liked. Orakpo is probably the sexier pick, but Maybin should fit in well.
12. Denver – Knowshon Moreno(RB) Georgia: The Broncos already had a crowded backfield, but the best way to help Kyle Orton is to establish a running game. Look for Lamont Jordan to be thunder to Morneno’s lightning, with Correll Buckhalter filling a Darren Sproles type of role.
13. Washington – Brian Orakpo(DE) Texas: Really surprising to see arguably the best defensive end fall this far. Did you notice how fast Washington turned in the pick? They couldn’t believe they were getting such great value either.
14. New Orleans – Malcolm Jenkins(CB) Ohio State: The Saints did the right thing by taking Jenkins over Beanie Wells. They get depth and a player that can be consistently rotated around the secondary. I would have liked to see Brian Cushing in the black and gold but Saints fan can’t complain.
15. Houston – Brian Cushing(OLB) USC: They key to winning the AFC South is stopping Peyton Manning, as Tennessee showed last year. Houston continues to improve their defense and are chomping at the bit to make some noise in the division.
16. San Diego – Larry English (DE) N Illinois: Another hybrid defender for their 3-4 scheme, not a bad move. Plus I think the Chargers are looking for a little insurance in case Shawn Merriman doesn’t hold up this year.
17. Tampa Bay (from Jets through Browns) – Josh Freeman(QB) Kansas St: Worried that the Broncos could snatch up the best remaining quarterback, The Buccaneers jumped up two spots to land Freeman. The Bucs picked up Byron Leftwich in the offseason but the competition will be healthy for both of them.
18. Denver – Robert Ayers(DE) Tennessee: I thought the Broncos should have taken Orakpo at #12. But Ayers isn’t too much of a dropoff from him and they still get Moreno. Good picks for the Broncos in the first round.
19. Philadelphia (from Bucs through Browns) – Jeremy Maclin(WR) Missouri: He’s not Anquan Boldin, but he’ll do. Pairing Maclin with DeSean Jackson also gives the Eagles a scary return game too.
20. Detroit – Brandon Pettigrew(TE) Oklahoma St: The Lions did maybe the smartest thing they could have by getting Stafford a security blanket. Pettigrew is a complete tight end and will help Stafford mature as a quarterback throughout the season.
21. Cleveland (from Eagles) – Alex Mack (C) California: After trading down three times in the first round, Cleveland lays an egg by drafting a center, albeit the best one on the board. Mack can play guard too, but there were better players available that could produce faster and better results.
22. Minnesota – Percy Harvin(WR) Florida: After clearing out the garbage from the “party boat” incident, the Vikes draft another potential liability. However, considering he fell this far, getting Harvin here is terrific value. It will be interesting to see how he an Peterson will co-exist.
23. Baltimore (from Patriots)- Michael Oher(OT) Ole Miss: It’s all about protecting the franchise (Joe Flacco) now in Baltimore. Another great value this late in the first round.
24. Atlanta – Peria Jerry(DT) Ole Miss: The Falcons needed help after losing Keith Brooking and Michael Boley. Any talent they can get on the defensive front is much-needed.
25. Miami – Vontae Davis(CB) Illinois: Davis fits the profile of a Parcells-esque DB: He hits hard, lots of upper body strength, and good overall & recovery speed.
26. Green Bay (from Ravens through Patriots) – Clay Matthews(OLB) USC: Lightning strikes twice for the Pack with this one. First B.J. Raji, and now a stud LB in Clay Matthews. Watch out for the Packers on defense this year. They’ll be headhunting.
27. Indianapolis – Donald Brown (RB) UConn: I’m not sure what the Colts were thinking. There were several players taken after Brown – even in the second round – that were better than him. Either the Colts are playing copycat by trying to stockpile the backfield or they’re worried about Joseph Addai’s durability.
28. Buffalo (from Eagles) – Eric Wood (C) Louisville: After going defense earlier, the Bills needed to go offensive line after dealing Jason Peters to the Eagles. This was the best value given their needs.
29. New York (G) – Hakeem Nicks(WR) UNC: Nicks replaces law-breaking WR Plaxico Burress. Even though Nicks won’t have the impact or garner the attention that Burress does on Sunday’s, this is a safe and reliable pick.
30. Tennessee – Kenny Britt(WR) Rutgers: The Titans get help at a position they’ve been trying to improve for a while (or have they?). I find it interesting that they didn’t try harder to draft a No. 1 wideout until Kerry Collins took over at quarterback. Hmmmm……
31. Arizona – Chris Wells(RB) Ohio St: Quite a shock to see one of the best running back in the draft fall to the bottom of the first round. Maybe there is something more to his foot injury that we don’t know. This all but ends Edgerrin James’s career in Arizona, but it is still an improvement for the Cards.
32. Pittsburgh – Evander Hood(DT) Missouri: The Steelers could have went any direction with the last pick, and naturally they go defense. Hood is great pick this late. He’ll fit in fine.
This Just In… Packers GM Ted Thompson Found Alive! (HUMOR)
Published: April 26, 2009
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In an amazing development, the NFL has just revealed that a sleeper cell of radical Packer fans successfully pulled off a plot to kidnap Packers GM Ted Thompson before the NFL draft and replaced him with a look-alike puppet.
Thompson was found this morning bruised but otherwise unharmed in a dumpster outside of a Holiday Inn in nearby Appleton, Wisconsin. Thompson had been drugged and woke up confused in the dumpster. His calls for help attracted the attention of hotel guests, who helped him out of the dumpster and untied him.
Upon being found, Thompson was quoted as asking what had happened in the NFL Draft. When told the Packers had drafted strictly at-need positions, he fell to his knees and cried out “no wide receivers?”
Packer fans everywhere suddenly have an explanation for the strange events that took place this weekend. The Green Bay Packers drafted for need with every selection, ignoring the “best player available” mantra they normally espouse.
Yes, now it’s obvious. This was a draft for the fans, by the fans. It’s just not feasible that the real Ted Thompson would have ever drafted this way. No wide receivers? No quarterbacks? No trading down for more picks? Come on.
The extent of this plot is not yet known and we are left with many questions. How many fans were involved? Are other attacks in the works? Who crafted such a perfect look-alike puppet that nobody even noticed it wasn’t the real Ted?
These and other questions are still to be answered. In the meantime, while I don’t advocate or condone such actions, allow me to simply say “Thank You.”
You can find Jersey Al Bracco articles on several sports websites: NFLTouchdown.com, Packers Lounge, Packer Chatters , Jersey Al’s Blog and of course, Bleacher Report.
Chicago Bears’ Draft: Day Two Results and Reaction
Published: April 26, 2009
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Dear Jerry Angelo,
How do I hate thee? Let me count the ways…
Ok, I may have been a bit drastic…but overall, I think Angelo dropped the ball on this draft.
Day one: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/162429-chicago-bears-draft-day-one-review-and-day-two-prediction
Day two: (This is where the fun begins)
With the 68th pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, the Chicago Bears selected Jarron Gilbert (DT) from San Jose St.
The highest-ranked player on a lot of boards, I did not agree with it initially. The Bears’ needs, in my opinion, were more directed at free safety and wide receiver before the defensive line. Who else was available at this spot? Rashad Johnson (S) from Alabama that was popular with many (myself included) Bears fans.
But whatever, Angelo picked up a highly thought of tackle. Fine. This pick isn’t bad as long as the next couple picks are good.
With the 99th pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, the Chicago Bears selected Juaquin Iglesias (WR) from Oklahoma.
This is a good one. Another option to come in and help Cutler. I thought there were better options, but all I wanted was a receiver, and Iglesias is supposed to have good hands and run sharp routes. I am fine with this pick.
With the 105th pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, the Chicago Bears selected Henry Melton (DE) from Texas.
This one I have a problem with. He is supposed to be big, strong, and fast but has only spent two years (one starting) as a defensive end. The potential is there to be good, and Angelo is big on trying to find gems in the mid-round.
However, we just took a lineman with our first pick, so why another so soon? Rumor was that Melton was going to be around still in the fifth or possibly the sixth. Why not a safety or offensive lineman?
This late in the draft, it isn’t about best player available necessarily. It is about addressing needs. This was not a freaking need. Take Gilbert or take Melton, but do not take both, especially so close together.
With the 119th pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, the Chicago Bears selected D.J. Moore (CB) from Vanderbilt.
Eh. Ok, I suppose. Cornerback was not a huge need, but at that point I was just happy we didn’t take another defensive lineman. Moore has shown some play-making skills but he is only 5’9″ and seems to lack the blazing speed a smaller guy should have. I like him as a backup and perhaps he can develop into a solid nickle coverage guy, but as a possible starter, I am fairly dubious.
(Side note: Did you notice how this is the fourth or so Vanderbilt player on the Bears roster? Plus with the addition of Iglesias, we have drafted at least four Oklahoma players in the past few years [Bradley, Dusty, Tommie]. I just thought it was weird for Vanderbilt considering it hasn’t been a powerhouse program in years.)
With the 140th pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, the Chicago Bears selected Johnny Knox (WR) from Abilene Christian.
Knox is certainly a reach at the beginning of the fifth round. That said, he posted the third-fastest 40 time (4.34).
Although, I remember Airese Curry being a very fast receiver we drafted in the fifth round several years ago too. And it does not help that the level of competition he faced was significantly lower than most other college players drafted. Coupled with the fact that Chris Clemons (S) and Duke Robinson (OG) were both still available at this pick, I was annoyed.
With the 154th pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, the Chicago Bears selected Marcus Freemon (OLB) from Ohio St.
Great…another weak side linebacker. Just what we needed.
Ok, to be fair, I know very little about him. He is versatile, which Angelo loves in a player, because he played all three linebacker positions at one point or another in college.
However, he seems a little short to be able to cover tight ends as the strong side linebacker and with Jamar Williams backing up Lance Briggs, it begs the questions whether Angelo drafted him just so he could play special teams. Clemons and Robinson were also still available when we made this selection.
With the 190th pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, the Chicago Bears selected Al Afalava (S) Oregon St.
Described as hard-working and gritty, the Bears brought in someone who can compete. He hits hard and brings an attitude.
Although his weaknesses seem to be his straight-ahead speed and, according to nfldraft.rivals.com, “he will take himself out of plays and whiff on the ball carrier.” Tackling in the secondary was a major cause of concern this past year, but it should also be a skill that can be taught. It makes me nervous…but at least Angelo did something.
Living in Hawaii, I really want this kid to stick. Plus having a jersey that says “Afalava” would be sick.
Pick No. 246 – TBD
Pick No. 251 – TBD
Raiders’ Draft Grade: A+
Published: April 26, 2009
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After seeing a majority of the picks made, the Raiders surprised me with a comeback on the second day. I am excited with all of the picks.
First round- Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR.
I am so glad Al decided to take the speed demon, but I am especially happy with this pick because he also took a great character guy. He will effectively spread the field, opening all kinds of opportunities for everyone else on the offense. Heyard-Bey has suspect hands, but that can be fixed. You can’t teach a 4.3 40-meter time and he also is a two-time Biltnikoff Award finalist.
Second round- Michael Mitchell, S.
Besides the name, I love the way this guy plays. If he can come in and steal a starting spot, he will add a level of physicality that this defense was missing. At 221 pounds, a height at 6’2″, and a 40 time of 4.43, he will be a real banger. In his senior season at Ohio University, he recorded 62 tackles, 3 interceptions, and a sack.
Third round- Matt Shaugnessy, DE
I’ve never heard of this guy, but he’s an interesting prospect. With 29 solo tackles, 60 total tackles, and four sacks, he might be able to sneak into a starting job if Burgess is traded.
Fourth round- Louis Murphy, WR
This by far my favorite late pick. He was a captain for the National Champion Florida Gators, he led the team in receiving yards with 655 (Gators do a lot of reverses and options, so they don’t actually throw that much), was second on the team in receptions with 38, and had seven touchdowns. He may be a starter or a good situational player at the least. I have no idea how he fell into the fourth round, but I sure am glad…
Fourth round- Slade Norris, LB
With 19 sacks in his final two years at Oregon State, Norris is a great value pick. He could be effective in third down situations.
Sixth round- Stryer Sulak, DE/LB
I think this is the steal of the draft. He is a three-time All Big-12 honoree and as a senior, he recorded:
– 55 tackles, 15.5 for a loss.
– 10.5 sacks
-led the NCAA with six forced fumbles.
However, Sulak is a tweener at 6’5″ and only 250 pounds, so either he can bulk up and play DE or he will stay where he’s at and attempt to get a starting role. Unfortunately, he might just end up on special teams.
6th round- Brandon Myers, TE
All Big-Ten TE, who accumulated 34 receptions and 441 yards. Also tied for the most TDs with four. Will not start, but will be in on 2-tight end sets.
Sherman’s “Dream Draft” vs. the Real Draft (Poll)
Published: April 26, 2009
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Earlier this week, I posted a slideshow article showing off my “dream draft.” The week ended with a challenge from my friends to let “the people” decide as to who was better.
Here’s the link to my origninal article:
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/160482-detroit-lions-my-pre-drafts-nights-dream-humor#page/1
Now here’s the link to my slideshow comparing picks one through five:
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/162608-my-dream-draft-vs-the-lions-real-draft-pt-1-picks-1-5
The slideshow comparing the remaining picks won’t be available until tomorrow.
The motivation behind this was to see if the average Joe can out-draft his team’s front office. Can the average fan justify booing a “bad pick”? When they boo, is it because they think they’re smarter than the front office when it comes to drafting players?
Anyone who would dare compare their picks publicly must be a fool, an idiot, a moron!!!
Hmmm…
This look like a job for me!
It’s a simple task: View the slideshows and vote.
Note concerning my draft: Thus far, all but one player were available for the Lions to pick. So for the most part, you can’t use the “Those players were taken” defense.
So with that being said, have fun with it!
Detroit Lions Draft: Not What Was Expected
Published: April 26, 2009
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I had planned to write an in-depth article later in the week, but I’m sure those types of breakdowns will be plentiful.
Rather, I am going to ask, right now, as a Detroit Lion fan:
What the hell just happened?
No surprise in the Lions signing Matthew Stafford. Despite the absurdity of $41.7 million dollars in guaranteed money, Stafford is now the latest version of the Lions’ savior.
Kid’s set for life without ever taking a snap in the pros. But does he have what it takes?
During Saturday’s coverage, ESPN commentator and ex-NFL QB Steve Young summed it up best:
“Look, there are metaphorical dead bodies all over the place, quarterbacks that have been drafted No. 1 in this spot that don’t have the resolve to live through what they’re going to live through.
“Stafford is going to face incredible pressure. If he doesn’t have the resolve—and I mean steel resolve—of Peyton Manning or Troy Aikman, he will be another one that will fall by the wayside.”
OK, so we made the mistake of taking Stafford; what’s done is done. Now we need to protect the “bonus baby” by drafting an offensive tackle.
Hey, look, Micheal Oher is still available as our second first-round pick is coming around! Jeff Backus could be moved to guard, and we’ll have 6’5″, 305-lb. pure left tackle guarding the blindside of the $41 million-dollar man.
But then Roger Goodell walks up to the podium and instead of getting what we expected, we hear:
“With the 20th pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, the Detroit Lions select TE Brandon Pettigrew from Ohio State.”
Collectively, thousands of Lions fan all went “WTF?”
Detroit did need a tight end, but not at No. 20. There were plenty of capable tight ends available, such as Travis Beckum or James Casey, in rounds four and five.
Granted, Pettigrew has the makings of being a great tight end, but did he warrant being taken with the 20th pick, especially with Oher available?
And don’t forget that the Lions have already signed TE Will Heller via free agency.
All right then, what about taking a linebacker in the second round? The Lions need all the help they can get in that area; Ernie Sims and Julian Peterson make a great tandem, but we need that one special player inside.
Aaron Curry was snapped up wisely by the Seahawks, but there were some great linebackers left at the 33rd pick. James Laurinaitis and Rey Maualuga were on the board, so there was a great opportunity to craft one of the best linebacking groups in the NFC North.
So, of course, the Lions run in the opposite direction of common sense and pick CB Louis Delmas, just worsening the glut of cornerbacks in the secondary.
What was the need of this pick? The Lions obtained CBs Anthony Henry, Phillip Buchanon, and Eric King via free agency or trade just recently!
When the Lions finally did pick a linebacker, they drafted DeAndre Levey, an outside linebacker from Wisconsin. At best, he will be a developmental linebacker and more than likely relegated to special teams.
I have been in the minority in supporting the new front office and coaching staff, but these choices have me questioning that support.
The Lions brain-trust has a plan. I will give them credit for sticking to it and not simply placating the fans.
But in my opinion, 2009 for the Lions will be nothing more than an extended training camp. I was certain they were not going to duplicate the success of the Falcons and Ravens of 2008, but I was hoping they would at least inch down that road.
