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Saturday, June 26, 2010
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
NBA Mock Draft Rd 1 (Pt 1)
Now that the NBA Draft Lottery is complete and we are flying through the playoffs, we here at the FSB feel that it is time to start discussing the future of the NBA. No we don't mean where LeBron will go, the major media outlets have that covered for us, we are talking about yet another Mock Draft!
Was- John Wall, PG Comparison: Athletic Jason Kidd
The Lucky Wizards will likely select John Wall with the first selection, and shift suspended guard to the shooting guard.Wall is the premiere player in this Draft. He has premiere athleticism, court vision, passing, and speed from the point Guard position. His athleticism and anticipation give him elite defensive potential. He can get to the lane almost at will. His jumpshot is inconsistent, and perhaps the talent at Kentucky allowed him to get by without improving it. Still, I think he projects slightly better than Derrick Rose, as he is better in the half-court and on the defensive end than Rose was at a similar stage.
Phi- Evan Turner, SG Comparison: Brandon Roy
The Philadelphia 76ers, were also fortunate to land a top pick after deciding to re-build late in the season. While Holiday, Igoudala, and Turner would offer immense versatility together, none are much threats as perimeter shooters. I think they will likely weigh trading down with the Timberwolves, but will ultimately select Turner and put Andre Igoudala back on the trade block. Turner compares to Brandon Roy, as both were talented players in systems where as the team’s best player, they were asked to handle the ball and make decisions. Turner gets to the free throw line with his great handles and threatening pull-up jumper. Turner is an average 3-point shooter.
NJ- Derrick Favors. PF Comparison: Carlos Boozer/ Shawn Kemp
The Nets, who had the greatest odds to reap the benefits of the top pick, fell down to 3rd. While this may ultimately remove them from the LeBron sweepstakes, Derrick Favors will be the easiest GM move, as they would not have to seek out a blockbuster trade. Favors would team with Brook Lopez, Devin Harris, Terrence Williams, and Courtney Lee to form a solid young core. He is an prototypical power forward, with solid athleticism. He is a solid rebounder, and shotblocker, as his long arms and explosive vertical make up for his average height. He is a powerful finisher, and is improving on the offensive end. He didn’t have great guard play at Tech, which may have impacted his stats.
Min- Derrick Cousins. C/PF Comparison: Al Jefferson/ Kendrick Perkins
The Timberwolves will likely push for a trade with 76ers for Evan Turner, who would fit in nicely in their backcourt with Johnny Flynn and Ramon Sessions. If Minnesota, can not land Turner, Cousins will likely merit consideration. Cousins would complement Kevin Love, and move Al Jefferson to a willing trade partner for a capable scoring wing. Cousins has top tier skill, but there are many things that has NBA scouts questioning his selection. First of all, he must continue to improve his athleticism and conditioning to succeed in the NBA. Entering Kentucky, Cousins struggled running the floor and though he improved, he rotated often with fellow freshman Daniel Orton. Though, in the time he was in, Cousins was the most efficient Collegiate player. Cousins, also has a fiery temper and will allow his emotions to get the best of him. He has committed many flagrant fouls, and gotten a way with some bush league tactics at times. He will likely need a veteran mentor or coach to help control him. If Cousins can put it together, he will be a top Center in the league.
Sac- Wesley Johnson,SF Comparison: Caron Butler
Sacramento will likely hope that the Timberwolves, pass on Wes Johnson so they can select him. The Kings fell to 5th, though they had the 2nd highest chance at the top pick. By not securing Wall or Turner, Sacramento likely keeps Rookie of the Year Tyreke Evans at the point guard, though he projects better as a shooting guard. Wes Johnson, seem like the best available compliment for Evans, as he can extend the defense with his jumper, and guard other teams scorers, alleviating the pressure on Evans. Wes Johnson, was an unheralded transfer from Iowa State before the season, but began it looking like a top 3 pick. He possesses ideal athleticism and physical attributes which should translate on the defensive end, as we saw in Jim Boeheim’s 2-3 defense. Though he saw the majority of his minutes as a 4, he has sweet jumper. He likely projects as capable 2nd scorer, but most continue to work on ball handling and creating his own shot.
GS- Greg Monroe, PF/C Comparison: Spencer Hawes
The Warriors had a mediocre season and will need to improve to impress future owners. With a sale impending, “Nellie-ball” will likely continue to be in effect, leading to more excitement, though not fruitful. They will look to upgrade their forntline depth. Greg Monroe is a fundamentally sound big man after 2 years in the Georgetown system. He was highly recruited, but is only a fair athlete. He would be suited in a system that can employ his finesse skills.
Det- Cole Aldrich, C Comparison: Joel Pryzbilla / Roy Hibbert
After selecting versatile forwards in last draft, the Pistons should look to improve by adding a low post scoring threat. The Pistons hope for Aldrich, but ultimately their decision hinges on who the Warriors select. Cole Aldrich is very skilled Center with soft hands and good jumpshot. He’s gritty and can rebound, block and pass. While he isn’t great in transition, I think he can be good enough to play solid minutes. He is a solid serviceable center, and doesn’t provide much upside.
LAC- Al Farouq Aminu, SF/PF Comparison: Josh Smith/ Julian Wright
The Clippers will likely address the SF position in the offseason. They will look at re-signing Travis Outlaw, or working a sign-and-trade for Rudy Gay. They can use this pick for depth and insurance, as there is no point guard of the future worth taking at this point. Al Farouq Aminu is a very raw, athletic combo forward. Ultimately, he likely will settle in as a stretch 4. His explosive athleticism, motor and length project him as a top defender and capable rebounder. He will have to continue to improve his ball-handling and shooting.
Utah (NYK)- Ekpe Udoh, PF Comparison: Jason Thompson
The Utah Jazz will focus on replacing impending free-agent Carlos Boozer. The lack of front-court depth was exposed in the playoffs. I think Greg Monroe, would be a better fit, but Udoh has great upside. Ekpe Udoh has great upside. This long-armed, athletic big man has great defensive potential and is a solid rebounder. Given time, he can improve both his back to the basket and facing the basket offense. He has decent enough handle and midrange game for a forward, and provides good work ethic.
Ind- Gordon Hayward, SF Comparison: Rashard Lewis
The Pacers are one of the most perplexing teams in the draft. They really underachieved last year, and then passed on trading T.J. Ford, Jeff Foster and Troy Murphy, all of whom could have gotten greater return value than they are worth. Indiana then went on a winning streak late in the season when they had nothing to play for, effectively taking them out of play for a elite upside talent in the draft. Still, Danny Granger needs lots of help, and the best way will be to rebuild completely. After drafting college starts Roy Hibbert, Brandon Rush and Tyler Hansbrough in recent years, I gave them local star Gordon Hayward. His versatility and scoring ability, will put him on the floor. Gordon Hayward is lanky quick forward who was the best player on the Cinderella Butler team. Hayward as a great skill set for his size. He can shoot and create his own shot. While he will need to add some muscle, he is a willing rebounder and passer. He likely won’t be a great defender, but I appreciate his fearlessness going against Kyle Singler in a competitive NCAA title game.
NO- Daniel Orton , C Comparison: Brendan Haywood/ Andrew Bynum
New Orleans seems to be at a crossroads, as they will have to assemble enough pieces to appease star Chris Paul. Paul was injured for half of this season, and was aptly replaced by rookie Darren Collison. Collison and fellow rookie Marcus Thorton emerged as solid players after just their rookie season. While that is good for the Hornets, they are stuck with Peja Stojakovic and Morris Peterson’s contracts until the end of next season, and James Posey’s until 2012. New Orleans will have to consider packaging Collison with a contract for some cap relief and talent. In the draft, I would anticipate them looking for a capable center, such as Daniel Orton. Daniel Orton is a bit of an enigma. He has the talent to become a capable starter with NBA strength, and could be a good rebounder and shot-blocker. Still in High school, his motor was questionable, and his limited minutes on a talented Kentucky team did nothing to dispel it. If he can develop offense with his back to the basket, he would have all-star potential
Mem- Xavier Henry, SF/SG Comparison: Paul Pierce/Martell Webster
Memphis will need to replace impeding free agent SF Rudy Gay. Gay will likely demand a close to maximum deal, and it will be interesting to see how much the Grizzlies will offer him. Memphis will also need to continue to add depth, especially at the guard positions, if it desires to continue to push for a playoff spot. Xavier Henry has an NBA ready body and can really shoot. While he started the college season hot, he deferred to the upperclassmen on a deep veteran Kansas team. He will have to improve his ball handling
Tor- Ed Davis, PF Comparison: JJ Hickson
Toronto will likely have to address the loss of All-Star power forward Chris Bosh. Bosh is a maximum deal player and can choose from markets in Houston, Miami, Chicago, New Yoark, as well as Toronto. They will likely need a post player that can pick up for some of the defense inefficiencies of Andrea Bargnani. They can also consider upgrading at point guard, as a shoot first point guard will likely fit in next to Hedo Turkogulu.
Ed Davis is an athletic power forward with phenomenal upside. He has been on the NBA radar for the past 2 years, but underachieved throughout his college career. This has scouts convinced that Davis can not lead a team, but is more of a second fiddle. He will need to get stronger, but he is a willing shotblocker and rebounder.
Hou- Donatas Motejunas, PF/C Comparison: Andrea Bargnani
Houston had a tough year with Yao injured, and Tracy McGrady aging quickly. The crafty Rockets
front office was able to move the disappoint McGrady, and 6th man PF Carl Landry for SG Kevin Martin and PF Jordan Hill. The Rockets additionally cleared enough cap room to sign a max free agent like Texas native Chris Bosh. The Rockets will need to add some depth at center, and point guard if Kyle Lowry doesn’t re-sign. Donatas Motejunas is a very talented offensive center. He can shoot from the perimeter, handle, and has a decent back to the basket game. He isn’t a great defensive player or rebounder. He is a lefty that reminds scouts of Andrea Bargnani. He could be an option to stash in Europe or in a reserve role.
Mil- Luke Babbit, SF Comparison: Omri Cassipi/ Linas Kleiza
Milwaukee really emerged looking a lot better around the core of Brandon Jennings, and Andrew Bogut. The Bucks are a strong defensive team under Scott Skiles, and they could use a scorer at the forward position. The Bucks will also have to re-sign John Salmons, or keep Michael Redd at the shooting guard. Babbit is a very talented under-the radar player. His smooth stroke and skill set are assets on the offensive side. Defensively, Babbit is a liability as he isn’t fast enough to keep up with a 3, not strong enough to play the 4.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
What We Learned and Who Fell/Why
What we learned? (Who is move-able?)
1. The picks traded for Brady Quinn and the Tebow selection mean that Brady Quinn projects as a career backup in the NFL
2. The selection of C.J. Spiller means that Marshawn Lynch should be packing his bags for a new stadium
3.The non-inclusion of Darren Sproles or Shawne Merriman in the Miami (Ryan Matthews) deal means that San Diego isn’t quite as talented as it wants to be. Larry English and Jacob Hester aren’t as advanced as they could be. . . It also could mean that Miami isn’t quite a playoff team yet
4. Jacksonville didn’t do their due diligence. . . They could’ve gotten both Alaulau and Tebow for the value of their 10th pick.
5. Osi Umenyoria is on the block, though it isn’t being said.
6. Josh McDaniels thinks he has it figured out. McDaniels manipulated the draft board around the idea of selecting 2 of Tebow, Demariyus Thomas, and Maurkice Pouncey. He did it perfectly. These guys are all projects with immense upside, looks like he thinks he is the next Belicheck, no idea where he learned that skill set.
7. The Rams may not have it all figured out. Reports were that the Rams considered Bradford, Suh, McCoy or Jimmy Clausen as the top overall pick. While the first 3 went right off the bat, Clausen is still available the day later. Why does this matter? Because Mike Holmgren offered his first rd pick with most of their picks this year and some next year for Bradford at #1. If the Rams evaluated Clausen that high, they should call Holmgren now, get all those picks, and take Clausen, who they would’ve rated just slightly lower than Bradford.
8. The fallen first round talents show that tape and character are major deciding factors
Friday, April 23, 2010
Who Fell? Where May they go?
Who fell?
Jimmy Clausen- Clausen’s personality is polarizing, in part because he doesn’t realize his ego. While there is some concern about his frame and athleticism, I don’t believe that it is the main reason that teams have passed on him at this point. I think the major issue is Clausen’s coaching, Clausen seems to take tips as peer advice and his upside seems limited. While he accurately described his reads as a QB, he did throw his WR under the bus. This kind of behavior will make receivers nonchalant on routes for a QB that doesn’t respect them. I think his upside is limited by his coaching in some respects, but he can be more accurate and improve his intangibiles in a veteran locker room.
(Minnesota, Buffalo, Oakland)
Taylor Mays- Last year Mays was considered a top 10 pick, but he returned to school believing he had a chance at another national championship and the money would always be there. . . He was wrong. USC failed to live up to hype and he was exposed in coverage, looking overaggressive at times and lost at others. This dropped his stock as in workouts and bowls he failed to ease any concerns about instincts or coverage ability. Mays needs a scheme that will let him play in the box, or force him to be disciplined as a deep safety.
(SF, SEA, PHI)
Carlos Dunlap- Dunlap fell after a mediocre season and a suspension after a suspicion of a DUI. This cost him his bowl game. Dunlap is very athletic and can be a good power end in a 4-3. However, his tape and rap sheet are big question marks.
(SEA, NO, CIN)
Colt McCoy- Colt McCoy had an outside shot of being a late 1st round pick, but he lacks size and deep arm strength. While considered a fall, it was not much of a shock that he was not snagged.
(Oak, BUF, Cle)
(StL, Cle, KC, Mia)
Roger Saffold- Saffold is a good prospect from a small school and was a fringe first rounder. He should be taken early day 2.
(Oak, BUF, KC)
Charles Brown- He’s athletic OT but has only recently added weight to his frame, he would be an excellent fit for those utilizing a zone blocking system, as he is an ex-tight end.
Bruce Campbell- He’s an athletic Offensive tackle that would really excel in zone blocking, as he is faster than most TE’s and is chiseled. He doesn’t show much on tape and was labeled as a likely bust
Brian Price- Price was underwhelming in workouts, but is young. He has an inconsistent motor on tape. But when he is on, he is exceptional at his age.
NFL Draft Round 1 Analysis and Mock Draft Round 2
NFL Draft Day 1 Analysis
Pick Team Player Position Height Weight College1 Rams Bradford, Sam QB 6'4" 236 Oklahoma
-The Rams may have entertained the thought of moving down from the top spot briefly; however it became evident recently that Bradford was worth the pick. Not only did he address his critics by successfully adding weight while recovering, but he also brings an excitement to a franchise lacking a selling wow factor (excluding Steven Jackson and somewhat OJ Atogwe of course) since the days of the Greatest Show on Turf. Furthermore, of the franchises needing a quarterback, the Rams were in the best position to keep him upright as they have invested significant money into their offensive line, as well as already picked their LT of the future in Jason Smith last year.
2 Lions Suh, Ndamukong DT 6'4" 307 Nebraska
-So much for the Lions putting out rumors about considering Russell Okung at this pick; Suh was on the phone 10 seconds after Bradford started taking pictures with the commissioner. While in the past the Lions have made poor drafting decisions (Charles Rogers, Mike Williams, etc…), they should not miss on this pick. Suh proved throughout his career at Nebraska that he is a dominating interior presence, and his athletic abilities and competitive spirit showed through at the combine as he wowed scouts in every drill, and more shockingly preformed every drill. The addition of Suh will provide the Motor City with a rock in the middle of their D line for years to come.
3 Buccaneers McCoy, Gerald DT 6'4" 295 Oklahoma
-Talk about a player to scheme match made in heaven, McCoy is a DT custom built for the Buccaneers Tampa 2 system. Predicated on the front 4 getting pressure and forcing the QB into mistakes, Tampa’s defense has been severely lacking the last couple seasons as it was anchored up front by the likes of ex-Viking Chris Hovan and Stylez White. McCoy will force teams to double team him as he wrecks havoc in the middle of the line making everyone else’s life (who is on defense) a lot easier. While not as sound against the run as Suh, McCoy is not asked to be in the Tampa 2.
4 Redskins Williams, Trent OT 6'5" 315 Oklahoma
-Many people projected this pick to be Russell Okung, or the biggest rumor leading into the draft was Eric Berry, however in the end it became the fast rising Trent Williams. While Williams showed inconsistency throughout his senior year, he flashed incredible feet and athleticism in the combine while proving versatile throughout the season by playing both tackle positions and even some center in a pinch. His potential is unquestioned and being brought into a zone blocking system in Washington should allow him the best chance to succeed in the NFL.
5 Chiefs Berry, Eric SS 6'0" 211 Tennessee
-While many wrote off Berry to the Chiefs because of Scott Pioli’s statements alluding to that he does not think the safety position is valuable enough to be drafted this high; it was all a smoke screen in the end. Take it from a true ex-patriot in Pioli to play mind games while grabbing the most highly regarded defensive player in all the draft. Berry will step in day 1 and along with Brandon Flowers, Derrick Johnson, and Tyson Jackson, anchor a defense stockpiling solid top 10 talents.
6 Seahawks Okung, Russell OT 6'5" 307 Oklahoma State
-Talk about a stroke of luck for the Seahawks. Once considered a lock to go number 2 to the Lions, Okung experienced a mini slide to the ecstatic Seahawks at 6 due to no fault of his own. While last season Andre Smith fell because of character/weight concerns, Okung fell because scouts fell in love with Trent Williams. Okung proved his worth by impressing at the combine, his pro day, and reportedly in interviews making him a steal for Seattle at 6. Seahawks offensive line coach has already reported that Okung will start from day 1 at left tackle, where he has some big shoes to fill in the retiring perennial pro-bowl tackle Walter Jones.
7 Browns Haden, Joe CB 5'11" 193 Florida
-Mike Holmgren is nothing short of a straight shooter, this became evident during the draft process as all of his interviews revealed his draft strategy. By the time the draft rolled around it was perfectly clear that the Browns wanted Berry at 7 and if he was not there Hayden was their guy. Hayden gives the Browns a dynamic young corner duo as he teams with UTEP/USC alum Eric Wright in a division filled with wide receiver talent. Hayden’s stock may have slipped a bit due to his original poor 40 time at the combine (4.57) however his running of an unofficial 4.41 at the Florida pro day rebounded his stock to its original level of franchise shut down corner.
8 Raiders McClain, Rolando LB 6'3" 254 Alabama
-While a shock to some, in reality it should be a shock to no one. Before the whispers of Anthony Davis, Jason Pierre-Paul, Bruce Campbell, or even Jimmy Clausen began people thought of Rolando McClain as a Raider. McClain is a physical marvel at 6’3” and 254 lbs and has exceptional athleticism for his size which allows him to pass the Al Davis test. However, unlike the selection of DHB last season, McClain is a solid selection for the silver and black, as it seems they are beginning the transition away from the 4-3 to a 3-4 defense. The additions of Kameron Wimbley (3-4 OLB) and Quentin Groves (should be a 3-4 OLB) signal a transition and adding McClain along side of Thomas Howard and Kirk Morrison gives the Raiders one of the top linebacking cores in the NFL. As mentioned in a previous post, watch out for those Raiders if they learn how to draft.
9 Bills Spiller, C.J. RB 5'11" 196 Clemson
-This was the first true head scratcher of the draft for us. Not because Spiller was not worth the pick, far from it, merely just because of how it does not address the Bills needs. With Anthony Davis, still on the board and the emergence of Fred Jackson last season the selection of Spiller can be questioned, however, the trading of Marshawn Lynch has been whispered for weeks now and this may signal the end of the gold-toothed warrior’s time in New York. Don’t take this as a bash session on the selection of Spiller however, far from it, Spiller is a game-breaking prospect on an offense desperately needing explosion as their best threat (Lee Evans) lacks a QB who can throw him the ball. Spiller immediately increases the danger factor of the Bills offense while immediately making the life of whatever QB they choose to start easier as he has soft hands and will be a nice check down option.
10 Jaguars Alualu, Tyson DE 6'3" 295 California
-This became the second head scratcher of the draft, but not because of who they chose, more because of where. Alualu has been coveted by the Jaguars since the Senior Bowl according to multiple sources; however his was still considered a lower first round prospect. But the Jaguars have never been a team to listen to the value of players over their scouting (over trading up for Derrick Harvey, etc…), and Alualu has his upside. He can play both interior rush DT as well as defensive end when called upon, and he has a motor that is nonstop. He reminds us of Peko of the Bengals (no not just because of the hair) because of his nonstop motor and aggressive play style. If he is able to spark the Jaguar’s defense like Peko for the Bengals, it may be Gene Smith who has the last laugh instead of Todd McShay.
11 49ers (From Bears through Broncos) Davis, Anthony OT 6'5" 323 Rutgers
-The 49ers leapfrogged the Dolphins seemingly because their pick was on the trade block and they felt that other franchises would be enamored enough with Davis to trade up and select him. We tend to agree with this as Davis has incredible upside and will immediately upgrade San Francisco’s right tackle position.
12 Chargers (From Dolphins) Mathews, Ryan RB 6'0" 218 Fresno State
-The Chargers realized they loved having a franchise running back in LT and decided that they would like to have another one. They decided to “mortgage the farm” trading away a myriad of picks including their Charlie Whitehurst loot in order to leap over the Seahawks and select California native Ryan Matthews. Matthews’ one cut style and subtle explosion should allow him to succeed in San Diego along side of lightning-bug Darren Sprolles helping make the Chargers’ running attack dangerous once more.
13 Eagles (From 49ers through Broncos) Graham, Brandon DE 6'1" 268 Michigan
- When the Eagles traded up to 13 the world seemed to think it was for Earl Thomas because of Andy Reid’s open love for the Texas safety. However, they fooled us all and added another pass rusher to their already impressive arsenal of quarterback nightmares. Graham fits perfectly into the Eagles scheme being an undersized, rush-first defensive end with a quick first step and the ability to run down a QB from behind. He should be a situational pass rusher in his first season behind the likes of Daryl Tapp and Trent Cole, however his powerful base and motor may allow him to be a solid Philly end for years to come.
14 Seahawks (From Broncos) Thomas, Earl SS 5'10" 208 Texas
-Because of the Seahawks apparent love for the big receiver, many figured this selection would be Dez Bryant. However, Pete Carroll and John Schnider must have had defensive plans in the work as they snag ball hawking safety Earl Thomas. While undersized, Thomas brings an understanding of the game, a knack for getting to the ball, gifted athleticism, and a serious pop in his tackles which had him graded by some over even Eric Berry. Thomas will bring an immediate impact to a 30th ranked Seahawk pass defense (which struggled to force turnovers) next season as he continues to increase in size and strength (he is only 20 years old!), as well as experience.
15 Giants Pierre-Paul, Jason DE 6'5" 270 South Florida
-Do the Giants really need another pass rusher? Apparently the answer is yes, yes they do. JPP proved himself an athletic freak with upside higher than the moon this past offseason, and it landed him behind another amazingly athletic small school player, Osi Umenyiora. This is a perfect situation for JPP as, while freakishly high in potential; he is also raw having only played 1 season of high level college football (junior college transfer). By the time he is ready to be a serious contributor to the Giants, Osi may have moved on, Kiwi may have fizzled out, or Justin Tuck may have been moved, who knows. But as Jim Johnson would say (RIP) it never hurts to have enough pass rushers, especially in a division with a Manning, Romo, McNabb, and the young Kobb.
16 Titans Morgan, Derrick DE 6'3" 266 Georgia Tech
- What better a position to find themselves in that to be drafting the most polished pass rusher the draft has to offer! The Titans lose their aging and frail franchise end in free agency (Kyle Vanden Bosch) only to replace him with a younger, more physically gifted end in Derrick Morgan. Morgan should prove to be a starter from day 1 and bring a much needed presence up front.
17 49ers (From Panthers) Iupati, Mike OG 6'5" 331 Idaho
-What a day for the 49ers offense. First they get potentially the highest upside tackle in the draft, and then they gather the unanimous highest upside guard in the draft! Iupati is a special blend of footwork and controlled rage making him a perfect left guard for the 49er’s as they will try to run Gore down the throats of their opponents. Teamed with Staley, Richal, and Davis the 49ers went from needy to downright greedy with offensive line talent after just the first round.
18 Steelers Pouncey, Maurkice C 6'4" 304 Florida
-This one was no shock to the football world as the Steelers made it no surprise that they would love to pounce on the top center prospect in the draft. Being that center was a position of desperate need for a young Steelers line, and with how thin center was in this draft class, Pouncey was a must have in Pittsburgh. He should help solidify the interior of that offensive line, helping Mendehall to run wild this upcoming season.
19 Falcons Weatherspoon, Sean LB 6'1" 239 Missouri
-The Falcons made it no secret that they were in the market for an upgrade at OLB. Whether that is for Clint Ingram or Mike Peterson only time will tell however smart money says Peterson because of his age. Weatherspoon is a top notch prospect with both solid physical play, as well as leadership intangibles which Mike Smith loves. Sean should prove a nice addition to a young Falcons defense, hopefully replacing the athletic but oft troubled Michael Boley who looked to be a budding star before being allowed to leave to New York because of the headaches he caused.
20 Texans Jackson, Kareem CB 5'10" 196 Alabama
-This pick was surprising because many had linked the Texans to Boise State’s Kyle Wilson; however the lure of high upside and the fact that Jackson faced consistently better high talent than Wilson must have been too much. The Crimson Tide alum surged up boards during the last month from second to mid round project to top 20 pick. Such a movement could make some nervous, however Jackson will be given every possibility to replace Dunta Robinson as the Texans’ top corner.
21 Bengals Gresham, Jermaine TE 6'5" 261 Oklahoma
-While the Bengals picked Chase Coffman last season to be their next receiving threat, it was evident by the fact that not even the loss of their top 2 tight ends could get him on the field, that Chase was not the answer. The Bengals immediately upgrade their offense here by selecting the top tight end prospect in the draft giving Carson Palmer another weapon in an increasingly dangerous offense.
22 Broncos (From Patriots) Thomas, Demaryius WR 6'3" 224 Georgia Tech
-What a slap in the face this must have been for Brandon Marshall, as well as how unfortunate for Dez Bryant. After being shipped off to the Dolphins for chump change (relative to his talent, not his baggage), Marshall’s heir apparent is selected in the first round in RAW receiver Demaryius Thomas. They have many similar qualities as they both block exceedingly well, and both have size and exceptional speed. For Dez Bryant, looks like all those character concerns that he was so confused about couldn’t be all lies or he would have been chosen here. In an interview after the selection, Demaryius said that Josh McDaniels told him they wanted a, “Good Guy”, consider that the ultimate Bronco Revenge.
23 Packers Bulaga, Bryan OT 6'5" 314 Iowa
-What a match made in heaven. While it must have been unsettling for Bryan Bulaga to spend all of his time in the Green Room, it was well worth the wait. The Packers have been desperately searching for answers along their offensive line and recently resigned veteran Chad Clifton to a 3 year (overpaid) extension, however his injury history makes him unlikely to play 3 full seasons. Bulaga should be able to step in at RT day 1 and help protect the #1 most valuable asset in all of Green Bay, Aaron Rogers.
24 Cowboys (From Eagles through Broncos and Patriots) Bryant, Dez WR 6'2" 225 Oklahoma State
-Pack your bags and wave goodbye to your home state Mr. Roy Williams, because this draft pick has sealed your fate as a cap casualty by next season (unless of course your hands seemingly reappear next season). Dez Bryant fell hard because of character concerns, but when has that ever been a problem for Jerry Jones? Bryant will help fill the void on the Cowboys left by TO, and the void in Jerry’s conscience left by not drafting Randy Moss all those years ago. Dez should step in immediately at the #3 receiver spot behind #1 Miles Austin and #2 Roy Williams (simply because of his salary), however don’t be shocked that if Dez plays well, he could be the #2 by season’s end.
25 Broncos (From Ravens) Tebow, Tim QB 6'3" 236 Florida
-And the mystery of where Tim Tebow will go is finally solved. While raw, Tebow still has the size and intangibles which scouts look for in a QB and will get a chance to develop under Josh McDaniels. Don’t expect Tebow to see the field any time soon however, as he needs developing badly and the Broncos also have Kyle Orton and Brady Quinn on their roster. This can’t be a good sign for the shelf life of Quinn.
26 Cardinals Williams, Dan DT 6'2" 327 Tennessee
-Without having to move up a single spot the Cardinals are able to snag the overwhelmingly considered the #1 nose tackle prospect in the Draft, and J Lo’s pick for the Dolphins. Dan Williams should step in day 1 and help replace departed and senior nose tackle Bryan Robinson, allowing Arizona to finally admit that Gabe Watson and Alan Branch were both failed picks and they simply won’t work at nose (even though they are both for sure big enough).
27 Patriots (From Cowboys) McCourty, Devin CB 5'11" 193 Rutgers
-The Patriots have never been a team to pass up the opportunity to stockpile draft picks, as their time tested method of quantity and production over upside has not failed them yet. McCourty, while not a ball-hawk is a consistent player who graded out exactly where he was picked, just like the Patriots like it. He should contribute as a Nickel corner his first season, however with some time, he could team up alongside recently resigned Leigh Bodden to form a formidable cornerback tandem.
28 Dolphins (From Chargers) Odrick, Jared DT 6'5" 304 Penn State
-Many though this spot was a dream come true for Miami as Sergio Kindle had fallen hard and would be available here to replace recently departed legend Jason Taylor. However, as is usually the case in the NFL draft, expect the unexpected. Even with young Phillip Merhling and Kendal Langford entrenched as solid ends of the future, Bill Parcels goes out and gets another high motor high effort defensive lineman to build depth for Miami. While not flashy Odrick will bring even more hustle and consistency to the Dolphins and will be a nice consistent line piece for years to come.
29 Jets Wilson, Kyle CB 5'10" 194 Boise State
-And the rich get richer. Not only does Rex Ryan have the best corner in the NFL in Darrell Revis, he also recently acquired interception extraordinaire Antonio Cromartie from the Chargers. Add Kyle Wilson, who some considered to be the #1 corner prospect in the NFL and you get the best corner backing set in the NFL. This pick made sense as, when you blitz everyone, your corners have to be good. Peyton manning picked on Donald Strickland, in the AFC championship, Rex Ryan wants to be sure that does not happen again.
30 Lions (From Vikings) Best, Jahvid RB 5'10" 199 California
-We here at the FSB had heard many rumors that the Lions were hot for Best before the draft; however we had no idea that they felt it necessary to trade back into the first round to ensure he was there. Best, a Spiller clone, provides incredible value for where he was picked, if he can stay healthy. He is the perfect change of pace back to grinder back Kevin Smith, and provides another new game breaking weapon around Matthew Stafford along with Tony Scheffler, Brandon Pettigrew, and Nate Burleson.
31 Colts Hughes, Jerry DE 6'2" 255 TCU
-The Superbowl is an unfortunate place for a team to learn where it needs depth the most; however this was the case with the Colts. The injury to Dwight Freeney hurt the Colts in the second half as his ankle tight end back up during the break rendering him ineffective as a pass-rusher. Hughes, built in the same mold as Freeney, will provide the Colts with another pass rusher in case of injury, as well as an heir apparent, as Freeney and Mathis are both not exactly young.
32 Saints Robinson, Patrick CB 5'11" 190 Florida State
-This draft pick comes from the same school of thought as the Jets selection of Kyle Wilson. While not as talented as Wilson, Robinson is a sold athletic corner who excels in man to man coverage which is exactly what the Saints need as they too like to bring the house every down. Jabari Greer and Tracy Porter proved their worth last season, however it never hurts to have more talent in your secondary as the NFL becomes increasingly pass oriented. Furthermore, this move gives the Saints the ability to kick promising first round Corner Malcom Jenkins to free safety just in case Darren Sharper decides not to return to New Orleans.
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