2009 NFL Mock Draft Rounds One and Two

It seems everyone in the world is taking a crack at an NFL mock draft, and no matter which player goes first or second, there’s no shortage of arguments or disagreements.

Looking at each team from a needs basis, and each player from a realistic perspective, this is how the NFL Draft should turn out in the first two rounds. Of course, we already know the NFL isn’t about certainties. This mock draft, along with other fine articles, can be found at www.theredzonereport.com.

 

Round One

1. Detroit Lions: Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia

Detroit can beat around the bush all they want, but they aren’t going to pass up on a potential franchise quarterback like Stafford. Daunte Culpepper is serviceable enough to let Stafford sit for a year, but if they truly want to turn their organization around, it starts with drafting Stafford.

 

2. St. Louis Rams: Jason Smith, OT, Baylor

It’s nearing a toss-up between Smith and Virginia’s Eugene Monroe. However, one thing that is crystal clear is that St. Louis is in dire need of an elite tackle. With the loss of Orlando Pace, the Rams’ already disastrous offensive line needs instant addressing. Smith should take Pace’s place for years to come.

 

3. Kansas City Chiefs: Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest

Looking back on it, they really had no option other than trading Jared Allen to Minnesota, and it probably was the best decision. However, totaling 10 sacks (NFL record) as a team after waving goodbye to Allen simply will not do. Drafting Curry should shore up their linebacking corps, as well as aid the pass rush. A defensive end is possible here too, but Curry fills two needs at once.

4. Seattle Seahawks: Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech

After the horror show at wide receiver last season, the Seahawks aren’t taking any chances.

This team was a playoff team two years ago, so the right addition could get them going in the right direction. They could address both offensive and defensive tackles here, but Crabtree will be too tempting.

5. Cleveland Browns: Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri

The Browns reach here because their backs are against the wall. They have already lost Kellen Winslow and are uncertain about the futures of Donte’ Stallworth and Braylon Edwards. They wanted Crabtree, but Maclin’s explosiveness and speed will have to do.

 

6. Cincinnati Bengals: Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia

Monroe is exactly what the Bengals need. Just watching Ryan Fitzpatrick trying to make things happen behind a pocket that constantly closed on him was obscenity at its worst. They can consider themselves blessed, because in drafting Monroe, they can breathe easy every time Carson Palmer drops back to pass.

 

7. Oakland Raiders: Andre Smith, OT, Alabama

We may feel the wrath of Al Davis before this draft is over, considering he barely misses out on both Crabtree and Maclin here. They need help desperately on their line, so nabbing Andre Smith is a double whammy. They get a steal while actually addressing a glaring need.

8. Jacksonville Jaguars: Mark Sanchez, QB, USC

Their biggest needs are at wide receiver and shoring up the offensive line, but passing on Sanchez would be a huge mistake. They know David Garrard won’t be around forever, so grooming someone behind him is something that needs to be done. If Eugene Monroe or Andre Smith can fall this far, Jacksonville would be wise to snag them, but this is where Sanchez will ultimately call home—that is, of course, if the Jaguars don’t trade out of this spot.

9. Green Bay Packers: Brian Orakpo, OLB/DE, Texas

Ted Thompson would love for an elite offensive tackle to fall into his lap, but putting the focus on making that new 3-4 system run its finest is the goal. Orakpo is an absolute beast with outstanding athleticism. He’s extremely versatile while bringing an instant pass rush to a transitioning defense.

 

10. San Francisco 49ers: Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU

The ‘Niners just miss out on their guy, Orakpo, but settling on Jackson isn’t exactly “settling.” Jackson is bigger and stronger than Orakpo, while still possessing great speed and explosiveness for the position. He would be a cornerstone for Mike Singletary’s defense.

 

11. Buffalo Bills: Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State

It has been quite some time since the Bills have had a tight end, much less one opposing defenses have to fear. Pettigrew is a solid pass catcher, but is also an extremely good blocker. He brings tremendous size and strength to a position where the Bills are severely lacking those qualities.

 

12. Denver Broncos: B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College

The Broncos have been trying all sorts of options for years but have never sustained consistent production out of their defensive tackles. In drafting Raji, Josh McDaniels will hope to rectify that. It’s very possible Raji gets taken in the top five or 10 picks, but a slight drop to Denver isn’t out of the question.

 

13. Washington Redskins: Aaron Maybin, DE, Penn State

Where the Jason Taylor experiment failed, the Aaron Maybin trial must succeed. Maybin is vastly undersized for the position, but his motor appears to be unmatched. Maybin is another player who will fall due to one team’s selection that shakes up the whole draft, but Washington will definitely be content with what they’re getting.

 

14. New Orleans Saints: Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State

If there’s one thing the Saints’ defense has been missing, it’s been healthy, effective corners. Mike McKenzie is still solid, but he’s older and clearly lost a step. Jenkins is a talent and youth injection in the most needed area for this team. It’s a no-brainer.

 

15. Houston Texans: Clay Matthews, OLB, USC

The Texans need a linebacker, and Clay’s uncle, Hall of Famer Bruce Matthews, is on the Texans’ coaching staff. As long as Matthews is still on the board, it’s as good as done.

 

16. San Diego Chargers: Brian Cushing, ILB, USC

Cushing fulfills the need of a solid tackler on the inside but also brings the versatility needed to play all over the field. The Chargers already have a good core of defensive players, but adding a machine like Cushing could give them the dimension they’ve been lacking.

 

17. New York Jets: Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas State

Unless Brett Favre decides retirement still isn’t for him, this is a pick the Jets will be forced into. They very well could opt for Percy Harvin in the first round and then try their luck with a second-tier quarterback. However, Freeman is something of a hot commodity lately, and the Jets are reportedly smitten.

 

18. Denver Broncos (from Chicago): Robert Ayers, OLB, Tennessee

After getting their big man inside (Raji), the Broncos will focus on beefing up their linebacking corps. They could take a shot at Josh Freeman if he slips by the Jets, but taking Ayers here fills a need and still allows them to pursue a signal caller in the second and third rounds.

 

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Everette Brown, OLB, Florida State

The Buccaneers unloaded veteran Derrick Brooks this offseason, which told you two things. First, there is a new regime in town, and second, getting younger and faster defensive players is a priority. Tampa Bay won’t believe Brown is still available at 19, but they’d be kicking themselves if they didn’t pull the trigger.

 

20. Detroit Lions (from Dallas): Michael Oher, OT, Ole Miss

The Lions make up for what they didn’t do with the first pick, and that’s select a franchise offensive tackle. Oher is close to a second-tier tackle, but he’s not too far off from where the Lions would like him to be. His presence will help Culpepper forget about his knees while ensuring Stafford a solid line of defense.

 

21. Philadelphia Eagles: Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia

His timed speed isn’t flashy, but Moreno’s size and elusiveness are. The Eagles still have Brian Westbrook, but at 30, it’s time to start looking toward the future. It’s probably between Moreno and Chris “Beanie” Wells at this point, with Moreno winning due to better agility and quickness.

 

22. Minnesota Vikings: Eben Britton, OT, Arizona

The Vikings would have loved to land either an elite corner or Josh Freeman, but landing Britton is still a solid pick. Britton makes up for his average athleticism with outstanding angles and positioning, as well as above-average strength and drive. The Vikings already have a solid offensive line, but the addition of Britton could turn it into one of their strengths.

 

23. New England Patriots: Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC

The Patriots traded Mike Vrabel to the Chiefs, yet they still have two starting linebackers over the age of 32. It’s time to move on from the whole “dynasty” aura and simply start drafting guys that fit the scheme. The only reason Maualuga is still available is because his measurables aren’t fantastic when compared to the other linebackers. However, he’s arguably the best “gamer” out of all of them.

 

24. Atlanta Falcons: Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech

They’d probably get a safer bet if they went with defensive tackle Evander Hood, but Johnson’s athleticism and burst are hard to ignore. He’s versatile enough to drop back as a linebacker, while his average strength and bulk have many questioning his ability to play the end at the next level.

25. Miami Dolphins: Darius Butler, CB, Connecticut

Corner is probably their third or fourth biggest need, but when you get this far down the pecking order, it’s difficult to stick to your “needs.” They could go against their word and take a receiver in the first round, but defense seems to be the priority with Bill Parcells and co.

 

26. Baltimore Ravens: Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland

You’d think the Ravens would learn from the Lions of old, as well as their own drafting history. The truth is, speed is overrated at the receiver position, and it’s high time NFL GMs took note of it. Regardless, Heyward-Bey has unworldly speed, is explosive, and has the body control to make big plays. His lone knock, however, is he has terrible hands.

 

27. Indianapolis Colts: Evander “Ziggy” Hood, DT, Missouri

Since Quinn Pitcock retired last year, the Colts have been in constant search of a guy who can man the middle of the defensive line. With Evander Hood finding himself dropping all the way to the 27th spot, the Colts may have finally found their man.

 

28. Philadelphia Eagles: Louis Delmas, S, Western Michigan

Delmas is the first true “reach” of the draft, as he isn’t expected to get a sniff until round two. However, the Eagles need to address safety after both Brian Dawkins and Sean Considine left town, so getting Delmas while they can is a must.

 

29. New York Giants: Percy Harvin, WR, Florida

Regardless of whether or not they trade for Braylon Edwards or a different receiver, they absolutely need to draft Harvin if he’s here in the first round. After losing Plaxico Burress, the number one priority is keeping that offense alive.

 

30. Tennessee Titans: Peria Jerry, DT, Ole Miss

He may not be Albert Haynesworth, but he’s an effective defensive tackle, which just happens to be the Titans’ main need. Jerry is much smaller than most elite defensive tackle prospects, but his speed and athleticism keep him at the same level of his positional counterparts.

 

31. Arizona Cardinals: Chris “Beanie” Wells, RB, Ohio State

As if it were somehow already written in the stars, the Cardinals appear to be set up in this year’s draft to get the exact player they hope for. While it is definitely possibly Wells is a top 10 pick and never comes anywhere this close to Arizona, he’d easily be an upgrade over their current options and would possibly be the steal of the first round.

 

32. Pittsburgh Steelers: Phil Loadholt, OT, Oklahoma

The Steelers can tell the world all they want that their line is better than last season, but I’m not buying it. It’s nice that they re-signed Max Starks and Chris Kemoeatu, but drafting an elite lineman this year is extremely important.

 

Round Two

33. Detroit Lions: Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois

Many experts will be baffled when they have to write, “The Detroit Lions had the best draft of any team.” The worst part is, it’ll be true. If the Steelers are smart and address their average offensive line, Vontae Davis should still be available. Mark that down for three needs the Lions have addressed after only two rounds.

 

34. New England Patriots (from Kansas City): James Laurinaitis, ILB, Ohio State

It’s a little strange to draft at linebacker with back-to-back picks, but the talent and youth movement is in full swing. Tedy Bruschi and Adalius Thomas are still good enough to start for New England, but the drafting of Laurinaits gives the Patriots the Buckeye, Jerod Mayo, and Rey Maualuga as a solid young corps.

35. St. Louis Rams: Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest

After addressing their offensive line with the second overall pick, the natural assumption would be to add a receiver. However, the new regime is focused on building their defense and running the ball, so the guess here is the Rams take the best available corner. Alphonso Smith gives them a ball hawk (15 picks in last two seasons) with terrific athleticism and range.

 

36. Cleveland Browns: Jared Cook, TE, South Carolina

They definitely could use some help at linebacker, but their need at tight end is far too great to pass up the freakishly athletic Cook. Cook is still raw but has the speed and athletic ability draft analysts salivate over. Replacing Braylon Edwards and Kellen Winslow is absolutely paramount to their success.

 

37. Seattle Seahawks: Jamon Meredith, OT, South Carolina

Seattle got their stud receiver in the first round and would be best advised to focus on their offensive line next. Meredith is a superb athlete and has a sound understanding of the game, but may be a bit undersized for the tackle position. A switch to guard is a possibility in the future, but regardless, he’s the best available offensive lineman.

 

38. Cincinnati Bengals: Alex Mack, C, California

They have a decent center already in Eric Ghiaciuc, but nabbing the top center prospect in the nation would be great for good competition, at worst. The Bengals’ main problem last season was protecting the quarterback and establishing a consistent ground game. Drafting two elite linemen in the first two rounds proves they are committed to never allowing that to happen again.

 

39. Jacksonville Jaguars: Brian Robiskie, WR, Ohio State

The Jaguars have had problems at receiver for years, but no more than last season. Just when Matt Jones was finally getting it, he had off-the-field problems and was released. Robiskie gives David Garrard the big target he’s been searching for.

40. Oakland Raiders: Louis Murphy, WR, Florida

Al Davis could make a case for Kenny Britt or Hakeem Nicks, but the reality is that he’s going for whatever guy can make the big plays, as well as an immediate impact. Murphy has elite speed and athleticism, and while it’s a bit of a reach in the second round, he could actually pan out as a solid No. 1 receiver.

 

41. Green Bay Packers: William Beatty, OT, Connecticut

The Packers already got their guy on defense. In the second round, it’s time to make sure they have a replacement for Mark Tauscher, and at worst field some depth on their offensive line. Beatty is ultra athletic for a lineman and also has great size.

 

42. Buffalo Bills: Clint Sintim, OLB, Virginia

Considering there aren’t any elite defensive ends left on the board, the Bills will have to get their pass rush from the outside. Sintim has excellent size and range for the outside, but has only average speed and quickness. He’s probably too small to be effective on the line too, but his 20 total sacks over the past two seasons show he can get it done.

 

43. San Francisco 49ers: Larry English, OLB/DE, Northern Illinois

San Francisco’s main agenda after getting a stud defensive end is to either bolster their linebacking corps or to invest in a quarterback. While there are many passers they could argue over, the fact that English is still on the board will be almost too good to be true. English’s 30.5 sacks over the past three years will have Mike Singletary drawing up defensive schemes in his sleep.

 

44. Miami Dolphins (from Washington): Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina

Bill Parcells doesn’t draft receivers in the first round, so how about the second? It’s probably between Kenny Britt or Nicks at this point, with Nicks getting the call due to his better playmaking ability.

 

45. New York Giants (from New Orleans): William Moore, S, Missouri

The Giants badly need a playmaking safety, and Moore’s eight interceptions two seasons ago are evidence that he could be the guy. Physically Moore is extremely solid, while his mental game is the only concern.

 

46. Houston Texans: Patrick Chung, S, Oregon

Chung is a solid wrap-up tackler, good in coverage, and possesses better than average athleticism. He has had a lot of experience against decent competition and could prove to be a gem for Houston.

 

47. New England Patriots (from San Diego): Rashad Johnson, S, Alabama

The Patriots need to go about replacing Rodney Harrison, as well as adding depth to their secondary overall. Johnson has solid ball skills, is a good tackler, and has a great work ethic. His height and speed are the only things stopping him from being drafted in the first round.

 

48. Denver Broncos: Sean Smith, CB, Utah

Smith is still developing and is quite raw, but the talent combined with his size (6’3’’, 214 lbs.) is almost unheard of. It’s tough to find a good cornerback, much less one that can run and jump with the Randy Mosses of the NFL. Smith would be a great pick to groom behind Champ Bailey.

49. Chicago Bears: Kenny Britt, WR, Rutgers

The Bears could address their offensive or defensive line, but getting another top-end target for new quarterback Jay Cutler should be a priority. Britt faced elite competition in the Big East while producing back-to-back 1,200-yard seasons. Britt has the speed and vision to become a solid receiver in the league, especially with Cutler at the helm.

50. Cleveland Browns (from Tampa Bay): Donald Brown, RB, Connecticut

The Browns aren’t going to fight over why Donald Brown is still on the board; they’re just going to draft him. Jamal Lewis is nearing the end, and his backups are fill-in guys at best. Now is the time to address running back, and Brown is an elite prospect that could start from day one if needed.

 

51. Dallas Cowboys: Pat White, QB/WR, West Virginia

Getting snatched by Miami or Kansas City are two solid options for White, but the rumor mill is hyping up Dallas big time as White’s final destination. Obviously Tony Romo is their guy, but White could help out as a backup, a receiver, and even in the return game.

 

52. Philadelphia Eagles: Shawn Nelson, TE, Southern Miss

Since L.J. Smith didn’t work out, the Eagles need to upgrade. Their current roster of average tight ends won’t get it done, so grabbing an athletic and underrated Nelson is a necessity.

 

53. New York Jets: Shonn Greene, RB, Iowa

While they still have the dynamic duo of Thomas Jones and Leon Washington, it’s clear that neither is the answer for the next five years. Greene is a great value at this point and simply too good of a steal to pass up. The Jets could concentrate on either their secondary or receivers here, but Jones is getting old and Washington can’t carry a full load. It just makes sense.

 

54. Minnesota Vikings: Alex Magee, DT, Purdue

The Vikings have two stellar inside linemen, but both are aging/regressing. While Pat and Kevin Williams are still effective, it wouldn’t hurt to have a tamed beast resting behind them for grooming.

55. Atlanta Falcons: Jairus Byrd, S, Oregon

The Falcons lost 35-year-old Lawyer Milloy (not a bad thing) and need a replacement. They could address linebacker here too, but safety is a gaping hole until they fill it up with some real talent.

 

56. Miami Dolphins: Donald Washington, CB, Ohio State

Washington is a reach for Miami in the second round, but the Dolphins need secondary help, and the talent pool at corner is getting shallower by the minute. If they don’t take Washington here, they might not find a corner in this draft that can start for them.

 

57. Baltimore Ravens: Connor Barwin, OLB, Cincinnati

Barwin is a physical specimen with great speed and actually potentially fits the Ravens’ scheme perfectly. He is a bit raw, though, and has limited experience against only average competition. After losing Bart Scott, the Ravens need talent and youth at the position.

58. New England Patriots: Andy Levitre, G, Oregon State

After getting two good, young linebackers, the Patriots hit the offensive line panic button and grab up Levitre. New England’s offensive line has gone from elite to slightly above average in a little over one year. Levitre won’t fix their problems completely, but he sure can help.

59. Carolina Panthers: Jarron Gilbert, DT, San Jose State

Carolina hasn’t had an inside force like Gilbert since Kris Jenkins was healthy and manning the middle. If Gilbert lives up to the hype, the Panthers could be a little improved quarterback play away from contending for a title.

 

60. New York Giants: LeSean McCoy, RB, Pittsburgh

The Giants have Brandon Jacobs, but with the loss of Derrick Ward and Jacobs’ injury-prone nature, taking McCoy would be a great move. It’s a wonder how he lasted this long, but you won’t hear the Giants complaining.

61. Indianapolis Colts: Austin Collie, WR, BYU

Much like Jordy Nelson from last year’s draft, Collie brings the whole package, just not necessarily with elite timed speed. Collie put up a monster season last year for BYU and should fill in nicely as the third option as Anthony Gonzalez tries to prove he’s ready to take over for the departed Marvin Harrison.

 

62. Tennessee Titans: Derrick Williams, WR, Penn State

The Titans can’t put all their eggs in one basket when concerning Nate Washington and Justin Gage. Adding a top talent like Williams to compete for next season is important, but more than anything, to just add depth to a severely starving position is key.

 

63. Arizona Cardinals: Lawrence Sidbury, OLB, Richmond

Arizona could go in a number of directions, but almost all of those directions have to do with defense. They can wait until the third round to add a corner. Sidbury is too put together to pass up.

64. Pittsburgh Steelers: Ron Brace, DT, Boston College

They probably would like to keep adding depth to their offensive line, but beefing up an already strong position never hurts. Brace would go to Tennessee in this round if they hadn’t already drafted their potential Haynesworth replacement.

Miami Dolphins 2009 Draft Analysis by Priority

The Miami Dolphins had one of their best drafts in years in 2008, thanks mainly to the new Bill Parcells regime. It is a rarity for Parcells/Ireland to draft poorly.

However, most NFL expert analysts have given Miami very poor grades for their recent drafts prior to 2008.

Their 2006 draft, in particular, was almost a total failure, seeing as how number 1 pick Jason Allen, chosen as a safety, is a nickel back at best. He showed what he is capable of at Denver last year, intercepting Jay Cutler’s very first pass–but on the other hand screwed up vs. Oakland on a pass interference call.

The 2007 draft of Ted Ginn, Jr., may turn out to be a wise pick yet at number one. Satele, good enough to make starter in his rookie year, is gone to Oakland, but, other than punter Brandon Fields, the rest of this draft was questionable.

The 2005 draft of Ronnie Brown, Channing Crowder, and Matt Roth was a bit more satisfactory, but nothing to go nuts about except for Brown, and the 2004 and 2003 drafts, aside from getting Ricky Williams in trade, Yeremiah Bell and Vernon Carey, were pretty awful.

Just like the 2004 to 2007 won-loss records!

As I said, it took Bill Parcells and Jeff Ireland to straighten out the Dolphins draft acumen. Results? Perhaps the greatest single season turn around in NFL history, and one that should keep on keeping on if the regime keeps drafting the way it did in 2008:  every single draft pick is still with the team and the at least half of them were starters at some point in 2008, with Henne being the quarterback of the future and guard Donald Thomas slated to start before a season ending injury.

Most analyses of Miami’s draft needs state that what is needed the most are the positions of cornerback, wide receiver, and defensive/nose tackle (so that Jason Ferguson, who is 35, can be replaced perhaps this year).

Some analysts would also conclude they need more outside linebackers or guard-center combos, in case Jake Grove is incapable of playing a full season, and Justin Smiley doesn’t quite recover from last year.

The following is what I think the Dolphins’ biggest priorities should be, especially with their first four picks: 25, 44, 56, and 87. These picks ought to make part-time or full-time starters in 2009.

Priority One: Cornerback:  For some reason, Dolphins management managed to let a fine CB, Andre Goodman, escape to Denver with another decent secondary member, Renaldo Hill. I think this was a mistake, but it’s too late to do anything about it now. Thus, only Will Allen is proven-starter calibre at the cornerback position, so far. Since new acquisition Eric Green from the Cards has a history of injury, the jury is still out on him, though he might make a good nickel back. Nate Jones? Who knows?

As a matter of fact, what is shaping up to be a Class A secondary with Allen and safeties Yeremiah Bell and former Raider Gibril Wilson, could wind up just mediocre unless management gets a Class A draft pick to go with it.

Unfortunately, very few Class A corners exist in this year’s draft, according to draft analysts, and one of them, Vontae Davis, is definitely not a Parcells guy: he’s got character and work ethic issues. The only other supposed top-round corner pick, Malcolm Jenkins, will likely be gone by the time Miami selects.

This could mean the Fins will take either a wide receiver or a defensive/nose tackle for their 3-4 defense in the first round, to eventually replace aging Jason Ferguson, and take corner in round 2.

Priority Two: Wide Receiver:  The Dolphins, who have pretty much given up on free-agent bust Ernest Wilford and his ridiculous salary, have only four wide receivers who will be expected to return in 2009: Ginn, Davone Bess (undrafted rookie find), Greg Camarillo (good hands but not ideally big and not fast, a “Howard Twilley” type–coming off injury), and Brandon London, who is big but did not see a whole lot of action last year.

Since Coach Sparano is wanting to transition into giving 2008 second-rounder Chad Henne the starting slot at some point in 2009 so that Henne can take over in 2010, at least one more playmaking receiver will be paramount, one that can shine with Henne’s good arm strength. It sounds to me as if they are looking for a combination of fast (Ginn), tough (Bess), good hands(Camarillo), and big (London).

In other words, Anquan Boldin, without having to give up draft picks to get him. As much as Boldin might want to come back to South Florida, it doesn’t look as though Parcells is going out on a limb to give up a number one pick to get him.

In looking at whom the Dolphins might be able to select with the 25th pick overall, the name Hakeem Nicks tends to surface the most often.

Priority Three:  Defensive/Nose Tackle:  Because Jason Ferguson still has a couple of good years left, it probably means the Fins will not pick this position in the first round, but I see them picking one no later than the third round (pick 87).

But a pick at some point is a must. Simply put, 2007 choice Paul Soliai is going nowhere, is too fat and too soft and has a poor work ethic, not to mention the fact that the Parcells regime doesn’t like players who tend to get into trouble during their off-times.

So, in assuming Soliai probably will not make the 2009 team, this is a priority regardless of Ferguson’s future ability to play. Starks, another good player, can also play tackle.

Priority Four: Linebacker, probably Outside:  Frankly, I don’t think a team can have too many linebackers. Just about every linebacker on the roster got chances to play last year, and, in Miami’s 3-4 scheme, the outside guys tend to play alongside defensive ends.

Right now the probable starters for this year are Porter, Crowder, Ayodele, and Roth, with Roth, a fine run stuffer, coming out in pass situations, putting Merling in (although Merling is more suited to end), or Anderson.

However, since Cameron Wake, the CFL’s top pass rusher, is now on the team, this may not even be a big priority. It remains to be seen if Wake can do in the NFL what he did in the CFL.

Another inside linebacker to spell Crowder wouldn’t be a bad idea, either.

Priority Five: Guard-Center:  Perhaps the biggest injury spot last year was at guard, losing first, rookie starter Donald Thomas, and then their best guard, Justin Smiley. Ike Ndukwe filled in nicely for Thomas, but when Smiley went down against the Patriots in week 12, the run game visibly suffered up the middle.

Although Samson Satele is one of the leagues better centers, the regime traded for big Jake Grove from the Raiders, and then traded Satele to the Raiders, because he simply didn’t have enough push to take on the likes of the Pats’ Wilfork and the Jets Jenkins twice a year, it was thought.

Yet, because Grove is somewhat injury prone, though the center vows to work hard and condition himself, the Fins should still take at least one center and one guard in the later rounds (picks, 108, 161, 181, 214, 237).

Low Priority: Running Back, Tight End, Safety, Quarterback, Fullback, Punter/kickers:  The Dolphins have one of the best running back duos in the NFL in Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams, plus Patrick Cobbs, who spells for them nicely and is their best return coverage man. Lou Polite is a good utility fullback in 4th and short situations and is a decent pass catcher.

Anthony Fasano was, in short, theft of the Dallas Cowboys! He had a great year and that TD against the Jets in week 17 is classic. This guy is no back up and should be Miami’s best TE since Randy McMichael, perhaps even better. Dave Martin is another good TE. And rookie Joey Haynos, who caught his very first pass for a TD against the Niners, should also make the 2009 team.

At safety, despite the loss of Hill, I think Bell and Wilson (who played a fine game vs. Miami in week 11) could become a top tandem if they stay healthy. However, Miami might want to put in some depth back there in the 6th or 7th rounds, with Jason Allen being the only other viable safety.

I doubt that Miami will choose a QB with any pick; the name most often claimed is Pat White to run the Wild Cat offense. Why? Ronnie Brown did a heckuva job running it last year.

Fullback? Perhaps with a late round pick, depending on if Casey Cramer comes back in 2009 from an injury.

Finally, they have their punter in Fields and their kicker in Carpenter. But, looking back at week 17’s Jet game and two fouled long snaps by Denney, they might chose to pick a long-snapper. One of Denney’s bad snaps resulted in a Jets TD.

Cincinnati Bengals Re-Sign LB Brandon Johnson

The Cincinnati Bengals re-signed linebacker Brandon Johnson on Thursday to an extension. However, terms of the agreement were not released. 

Why Drafting Matthew Stafford Truly Means Building for the Future

So much has been said in the media and blogs surrounding the 2009 NFL Draft, about who should be selected No. 1.

Whether you want the closest thing to a pro-bowler in Aaron Curry, one of the great left tackles, Smith or Monroe, perhaps another WR sensation in Crabtree, or as experts predict the Bulldog signal caller in Matthew Stafford.

All have great potential and are seemingly top ten picks in this years draft.

I for one, in the beginning, hated the idea of selecting Stafford No. 1 overall, but not based on his talent level though. I saw far too many holes on an 0-16 team to draft anyone that would not help the team week one.

Here are some reasons why Matthew Stafford could benefit the Lions in the future:

 

1) The obvious reason is that he could pan out and be the franchise quarterback all of us hope he will be, and that the team needs.

It serves him well to hold a clip board and learn the X’s and O’s for at least one year or more.  Also playing behind a former all pro in Culpepper can teach him invaluable lessons he can carry into the future.

Scott Linehan can help him in the transition from the college game to the pros as he did help Culpepper throw a couple of touchdowns in his career.

2) It’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon.

This in my opinion is very important from a fans perspective.  Many of us have liked the moves Mayhew and the front office have made thus far.

But they didn’t go out and over spend to make the team better, and I say that is ok.  We as Lions fans are already patient, we need to continue on this path even if Stafford is selected.

We can’t turn around eight years of Millen failures in one off season and draft.  It will take a while, two to three seasons before we should judge how the new regime is doing.

Keep this in mind if this season is rough. If we want our new QB and team to succeed, do not go calling for anyone’s head too soon or we may be in for another bad decade.

Culpepper should, and will start, if he and the team go 0-8, remember we as Lions fans are patient.

 

3) Stafford is the best QB prospect.

Yes I said it, he is better than Mark Sanchez.  His arm strength is amazing and is not found in the draft every year. He put up good numbers against good defenses of the SEC. He can make all the throws in an NFL style offense.

I’ll take this point one step further and say he is the best quarterback prospect in this year and next years draft combined.  The three headed QB monster that returned to college this year in Bradford, McCoy, and Tebow all are great college quarterbacks.

None of which I would want over Stafford.

The closest thing to an NFL style of offense these three have seen is a fourth and inches QB sneak. And even then it was a shotgun QB draw play. Look, they all have skills, and I love watching them play, just not for my beloved Lions. It seems as thought their skills do not translate into good NFL quarterbacks.

4) How many holes are left?

If the Lions do in fact snag our signal caller of the future this year, it is one less hole to fill for the team. Sure, I had QB as being the fourth or fifth hole for this year, but drafting Stafford means there is one less hole.

The Lions will hopefully not have the first overall pick in next years draft, but it seems it will fall somewhere in the top 10. The front office can evaluate the team on a position by position basis after this season, add some free agents, and come up with a draft strategy for next year.

If they could trade out of their first round spot next season and pick up some very valuable picks, the future of the franchise will be looking a lot better.

It seems as thought the Detroit Lions will draft Matthew Stafford first overall on draft day. I believe this is a wise choice for the future of the team, and ultimately the best strategy.

Remember patience is a virtue we all must posses with everything involving the Lions.

The curse of Bobby Layne ends April 25, 2009 with the first pick in the draft.

Will the Washington Redskins Come Calling for Anquan Boldin?

After the Washington Redskins failed to land Anquan Boldin in a trade before last years draft, will they come calling again now that Arizona is officially taking trade offers.

Redskins owner Dan Snyder is known for getting involved in big acquisitions and this year has been no exception.  The Redskins were heavily involved in the Jay Cutler sweepstakes, and the Boldin opportunity has the makings of another auction to the highest bidder.

ESPN’s Sal Paolantonio has reported it would take a first and third rounder to land Boldin and a contract extension.  While the Cutler price proved to be too high, the Boldin price tag seems more reasonable for a top five receiver in the prime of his career.

The only remaining question is who do the Redskins covet more, Boldin or Mark Sanchez out of USC?  Because trading for Boldin would certainly make drafting Sanchez impossible.

Ding Dong The Witch Is Dead: John Madden Retires From Broadcasting

So, John Madden finally leaves the booth. What can I say other than, “It’s about time!”. 

Don’t get me wrong, I personally have nothing against Madden. I love the realism of his yearly football games (although the best one ever was in 1992 with the Sega Genesis System).  His commercials do not bother me either, although I never need “athletes foot medicine”. 

None of those endorsements have to do with me being content of his departure.

So then, why do I want to see him go? Because of his bad game commentary, that’s right, bad. He makes the most ignorant statements I have ever heard on the air, yet he has had a job for many years just because of his name. 

Let me give some examples to support my initial statement so that this does not seem as some an incoherent rant. 

Years ago, while watching a football game (during the time Kurt Warner and Marshall Faulk were with the Rams) he said on the air, “I think the Rams are the best team ever,” or something to the effect.

The Rams are the best team ever? Really?

I appreciate a great team, but to say that they are the best team ever?  Okay, so maybe he was off that day.  I can write off one ignorant statement. 

There was a time when he said, “This guy sees better when he has his contacts on”. 

Yeah, John…so do most people.

There have been so many through the years that I would not have time to write them all, but his media coverage of teams was almost always super biased. He has got to be the biggest bandwagon jumper I have seen in the history of the sport.

The truth is this, when he coached, he wasn’t a horrible coach by any stretch of the imagination. However, he received his “fame” in the broadcast booth.

So what if he drew shifty lines with a yellow marker…big deal. 

I feel Madden had very little football knowledge. That’s right, I said it…He stunk at his job.

In the real world, anyone else as incompetent as him would have been given a walking slip a long time ago.

Good riddens, John.

I only hope you do not have the same itch Favre did a year ago.

John Madden’s Legendary, Sometimes-Ridiculed, Voice Will Live On Forever

Attention, New York Giants: Go Get Anquan Boldin!

If my headline didn’t get your attention, G-Men, let me reiterate:

GO GET ANQUAN BOLDIN!

NOW! RIGHT NOW! STOP READING THIS AND GET HIM!

The Giants have the picks for him, though rumors had them looking to turn those picks into Tony Gonzalez.

Yeah, because we need an old tight end to replace Kevin Boss, a young tight end who has done very well in his first two seasons.

Instead, they could turn those picks into Boldin.

 

With the signings of Christ Canty, Michael Boley, and Rocky Bernard, the Giants have already shored up their needs on the defensive front.

With the loss of Plaxico Burress last year, the Giants’ flaws were exposed. When faced with the tough defense of the Eagles or the physical line of the Cowboys, Eli Manning didn’t have that go-to threat that took the pressure off the weak areas of the offense.

A game-changing receiver turned Eli into a Super Bow MVP, Amani Toomer into a deadly second option, and Steve Smith into a dynamite third-down receiver. A wideout that commands a double-team at all times opens up passing lanes for Kevin Boss, as well.

A receiver that can pull down that fade pass in the corner of the end zone is something that Manning needs as a backup option so he doesn’t have to force bad passes.

You can argue that the majority of players on the Giants next year are on their way up. Mathias Kiwanuka, Aaron Ross, Michael Johnson, Corey Webster, Justin Tuck, Barry Cofield, and the return of Osi Umenyiora give the Giants a chance to climb back in the mix.

On offense, Derrick Ward is gone, but it’s time for Ahmad Bradshaw to step up, which we have seen that he is capable of doing.

What’s missing is the primary receiver.

 

Now, other names, such as Braylon Edwards, have been tossed around.

While Edwards is truly a dynamic talent, he also has a bad case of the dropsies, and that’s not something a quarterback like Eli Manning needs.

With Boldin, you get a legit receiver who is ready to start over. He’d finally be on a team that is still on the rise, and if someone like Mario Manningham or Domenik Hixon can replace Toomer as a solid second option, the offense would be the same as that which was potent enough to beat the 18-0 Patriots.

Plus, the defense that held that same Patriots team to 14 points in the biggest game of their careers is still around.

 

Other teams interested in Boldin include the Cowboys and Eagles (who are, ironically enough, hoping for him to replace T.O.).

If the Eagles snag him, all of a sudden Donovan McNabb has a legit receiver to throw to, and we all saw how far they went the last time he had a better half.

If the Cowboys get him, they can line up a young duo of Roy Williams and Boldin across from one another, and with a gunslinger like Tony Romo throwing to them, all of a sudden the Cowboys would be the prohibitive favorite to go to the Super Bowl.

Oh, wait…they were last year? How’d that work out?

 

Thinly veiled barbs aside, the Giants cannot afford to let either of these division rival teams get Boldin.

And moreso, they can’t afford to waste another promising year without a top-notch wide receiver. It’s not often that one becomes available in the manner that Boldin is, and it’s not often that you have the perfect package of picks to give up for him.

So I repeat: New York Giants, GO GET ANQUAN BOLDIN!

NY Jets’ Owner Woody Johnson to the NFL: Scheduling Affects Jewish Holidays

(This article is based on opinions of unnamed Jewish NFL fans and is in no way meant to cause any harm to any religion.)

 

Yes, Woody Johnson has again pulled another stellar move in an effort to make his team that much better.

He didn’t sign any big name players nor did he make a blockbuster trade.

He simply complained about NFL scheduling affecting two consecutive Jewish holidays. One game against the Patriots in Week Two is on Rosh Hashanah. The other is Yom Kippur, the Jewish day of atonement, the following week against the Titans.

Yup, if he gets his wish, he could increase his total attendance a whopping five percent for the night. You can’t miss out on that kind of cash.

Now, I want to make it clear that I am not bashing the Jewish religion or any other religion whatsoever. But when exactly did religious affiliations have anything to do NFL scheduling?

The NFL has hosted games on holidays such as Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s Day. Do I hear any complaints about that? Not really.

Why should the NFL change their schedule because a small percentage of the Jewish population can’t attend a game? Last time I checked, there are a total of eight home games and people can buy tickets to any one of those games.

If people of the Jewish faith have to be home before sundown, they watch the games on TV like over 90 percent of the United States population. It’s not that big of a deal.

The person that complained about this whole ordeal wasn’t even of Jewish faith. It was an owner! Why this is getting so much attention is ridiculous.

If this is such a problem, why haven’t the Jewish population created an uproar about this? They haven’t and many of them realize it’s not the end of the world. They realize it’s just another stupid attempt by an owner to get extra revenue.

If the NFL changes the schedule, every other religious affiliation should be allowed their own input in making the NFL schedule.

If the NFL has games on Halloween, should an owner purpose a change for that week so Wiccans can attend the game? If the game is played on Halloween, Wiccans can’t properly have their big feast and prepare the send off of their loved ones passing.

If the NFL has games on any Sunday, maybe an owner should complain that the christian God demands rest on Sunday and making people at the stadium work is preposterous.

It is understandable that some fans may be displeased, but if any of you had any idea how hard it is to make an NFL schedule, you wouldn’t be complaining. It’s a job that takes months of planning and as always, it’s destined to fail in some aspect.

Bringing in religion into NFL scheduling will create havoc for one religion any way you look at it. You can’t please everyone. Just play the game.

I want to hear other people’s opinions on this subject. For those of you that disagree, how can we change this current crisis?

Saying Goodbye To The NFLs Greatest Coach Of All-Time: Mr. John Madden

John Madden. Wow what a great career for an awesome coach. Many of you know by now that John Madden has officially retired.

John Madden is truly a football icon and legend. He made the Oakland Raiders what they are today. If you think about it, during Maddens years of coaching the Oakland Raiders (1969-1978) he amassed an unbelievable winning record of103-32-7 regular-season record and a Super Bowl championship.

The Oakland Raiders under Madden guidance won in the 1976 season with a Superbowl Championship. John Maddens Raiders are also synonymous with great Raider plays like the “Immaculate Reception”, the “Holy Roller” and Dave Casper’s “Ghost to the Post.”

John Madden is one of my favorite coaches because he made the Raiders play so hard that the Pittsburgh Steelers literally cried after taking a beating by the Silver and Black.

The Raiders were even taken to court under John madden for pounding the Steelers. never in NFL history has anything like this ever happened. I love it when you watch the old footage and John Madden says,”Yeah we play hard and mean…whatcha gonna do about it.”

Another great thing about John Madden is the great players that played under his coaching. Otis Sistrunk, Gene Upshaw, Art Shell, Van Eeghen, Dave Casper, Kenny Stabler, Pete Banaszak, Jack Tatum, Cliff Branch, George Atkisson,there are just so many greats. It is with these men that John Madden dominated the NFL during his years. Thanks John.

John Madden basically defeated every Hall of Fame coach during his tenure with the Oakland Raiders. I always love the fact that Madden also took over the rights to the NFL when Madden took over EA Sports football. Yes! a Raider name is just about every home in America! Does this make the Raiders Americas team? Only for those that bleed Silver and Black.

I am glad to see John Madden retire. He truly deserves it and has done so much for the game of football itself.

One final note on the way out. How in the Hell can the NFL even think of using Chris Collinsworth as Maddens replacement. The guy is not all there and is basically nothing to the NFL. I could see Howie Long or Tim Brown taking his place but Collinsworth. I think I am gonna be sick.

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