Why the Baltimore Ravens Don't Need a Rookie Quarterback

I have been keeping tabs on ESPN’s Sportsnation NFL Mock Draft and have been troubled with many picks that have been made. However, I just chock this up to a mass of people voting without intimate knowledge of team needs and players. Sportsnation had Baltimore selecting Quarterback Brian Brohm of Louisville with the 8^th Overall pick. This is not an uncommon, or for that matter a bad thought. Many believe that Baltimore is just a quarterback away from being a contender and if that is the case then a QB in the first round would make sense. However, I disagree with this thought for many reasons.

If I’m going to argue that the Ravens do not need a rookie QB, then I need to talk about the QBs that they do have. Steve McNair started six games and in those he threw two touchdowns against a total of 11 turnovers. McNair did complete 64.9% of his passes, a career high, but he did not seem to have the arm for the long ball. Maybe the surgeries he has undergone will help him take another shot, but he is definitely not a long term solution. Kyle Boller threw 9 touchdowns against 14 turnovers with 61.1% in 12 games. Boller is definitely not the solution and should be a backup. Looking at these two QBs maybe a little dynamic youth at the position could be very helpful.

For that dynamic youth the Ravens do not have to draft a QB, but rather could give Heisman Trophy Winner Troy Smith a shot. Smith fell out of favor in the draft because of his height and the fact that he was surrounded by talent. This led him to fall into Baltimore’s lap in the 5^th Round. Towards the end of the season, when Baltimore no longer had anything to play for, they gave the young QB a chance. Against Indy he was 3 for 5 for 33 yards and ran in a 6 yard touchdown. Then against Miami he was 5 for 11 for 49 yards. Then Smith got his first start against one of the more imposing defenses, Seattle. Smith did not throw a pick, although he did lose two fumbles in the game. He passed for 199 yards and a touchdown in addition to running for another 25. Then, he started against Pittsburgh and played well throwing for 171 yards and a touchdown in addition to rushing 23 yards. Troy Smith played well enough at the end of the season that he should get a chance to start. He can be the dynamic youth that Baltimore has needed from the QB position.

If Baltimore has hesitations about Troy Smith, then I do not think that drafting another QB is the solution. The Boller experiment did more harm than good for the Ravens and drafting another young QB who may fail would lead the franchise down a long and painful road. It would make sense to bring in a new veteran QB into the mix then add another inexperienced QB. Looking at the veterans available I would say Daunte Culpepper might be a nice option. It takes two years to fully heal from a knee injury like the one he suffered. Culpepper was once an MVP and is looking to make a comeback. He could run the offense, who knows maybe even revitalize it, and let Baltimore’s tenacious defense do what it was designed to do, win games. If Troy Smith is thought to be too young to take the reigns and McNair is finished, bring in Culpepper.

Baltimore’s secondary should be considered more of a priority than QB in this draft. Chris McAlister and Samari Rolle are both getting up there and behind them is nothing spectacular. They are also injury prone and if they are out the Baltimore secondary is picked on. Adding a dynamic youthful corner in the first round (where one is surely to be available to the Ravens) is critical to not only establish depth at the position, but also to provide this secondary with a future. So, in conclusion, because of Troy Smith’s dynamic play, greater needs in the secondary, and Daunte Culpepper still a free agent, the Baltimore Ravens do not need a rookie quarterback.

Second Draft of My Mock Draft

1. Miami Dolphins: Chris Long DE Virginia

It’s no secret that the Dolphins are looking to shop their first overall pick, but it does not seem that there will be any takers. So now the organization must decide what position they need to shore up the most. They could look to the impressive Matt Ryan considering that all they have is John Beck. They could draft Jake Long and have a sound offensive line. They could also draft a DT to take care of the middle of the DL. I think all of these are viable options, but I feel that Chris Long is the hands down best pick for Miami at this point for a few reasons. First, no one was worst against the run than Miami last year and if nothing else Chris Long’s constant motor would help Miami stop hemorrhaging rushing yards. Second, Jason Taylor staying in Miami means Long would operate on the same side with Joey Porter and that combination could lead to a veritable sack fest. Third, Long was upset with himself when he preformed phenomenally at the combine and that type of perfectionism could only benefit Miami. For those reasons and his phenomenal combine, it seems like a no-brainer for Miami to select the Virginia DE.

2. St. Louis Rams: Verhnon Gholston DE/OLB Ohio State

The Rams have two needs that have to be addressed in the first two rounds of the draft. One is Offensive Line the other is the Defensive Line. It would make complete sense for the Rams to draft Jake Long and provide some much needed depth to the O-line. However, the amount of talent for the DL in the early second round is not as great as the talent for the O-line. Also, Orlando Pace and Alex Barron provide “stability” making O-line a secondary need. So I have the Rams selecting the talented Gholston first and therefore an OT second. I initially had the Rams taking Sedrick Ellis so that Carrkier could move back to end, but if the Rams move to a 3-4 Carriker could be the perfect end. Gholston has destroyed every workout he has come up to and would make a phenomenal pass-rushing OLB in a 3-4.

3. Atlanta Falcons: Jake Long OT Michigan

Atlanta signed Burner Turner and so it is highly unlikely that they will go after McFadden. Atlanta wants to accomplish two things offensively. First, foster a power running game. Second, protect the QB. Jake Long will go a long way towards accomplishing both of those goals. Many mock drafts have Matt Ryan going here, but while I like Matt Ryan I think the signing of Redman fosters “stability” and with him the Falcons can pursue a very deep quarterback class in the second round. Also, if Matt Ryan freefalls in the draft I could see the Falcons trading some of their many picks to move up and grab him.

4. Oakland Raiders: Sedrick Ellis DT USC

The Raiders will most likely look to trade this pick as they have gone on a ridiculous spending spree. However, I don’t mock with trades so, I have the Raiders taking Ellis. Ellis is a dominant player who can really help this defense. If they move Tommy Kelly to the inside, then the Raiders can put Ellis in the rotation with Warren and have a pretty sound D-Line. See my previous post for why they shouldn’t take McFadden.

5. Kansas City: Ryan Clady OT Boise State

Herm Edwards has stated that offense is a priority for the draft, which makes sense considering that the Chiefs were near the bottom in almost every offensive stat. I would say that if McFadden falls here, it might be worthwhile for them to trade the pick to the highest bidder, but if that falls through working on their abysmal offensive line would make perfect sense. Clady is the next best thing to Jake Long as far the O-line goes, so it makes sense to go after him here. They could be tempted to take Dorsey here, but the offense must be a priority.

6. New York Jets: Darren McFadden HB Arkansas

The Jets have been very aggressive in the off-season giving themselves a very impressive offensive line. Now if they draft McFadden and have him in a tandem with Thomas Jones, the Jets could very well be a contender again. Having McFadden takes stress off of every position on the offense. Thomas Jones will run better being part of a tandem, whichever quarterback plays will have a strong running game to back them up, and McFadden is a back that requires very little blocking. Needless to say Run DMC would make this Jets offense very dangerous.

7. New England Patriots: Leodis Mcklevin CB Troy

Had Laurinitus entered he would have been the hands down pick for the Pats, but he did not and the Patriots are faced with drafting elsewhere. Asante Samuel and Randall Gay have both left for “Greener” pastures and so CB seems to be the pressing need, even if they sign Ty Law. Mcklevin can help make an immediate impact on an almost perfect team.

8. Baltimore Ravens: Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie CB Tennessee St.

Matt Ryan is still on the board and this causes the Ravens to look through their options at QB. Steve Mcnair feels he still has it, despite his performance against the Steelers on Monday Night. Kyle Boller has shown competency if not dynamic play. Troy Smith has shown that he can run the offense and can only improve. So, there is “stability” at QB. Plus, if Matt Ryan has fallen this far, chances are that a good QB will be available in the 2^nd round. So, the Ravens look at providing their aging, injury prone CB crew with some depth and youth. However, the Ravens are not copping out in the least. DRC seems to be just as much of a playmaker as his relative in San Diego and will help revitalize a fearsome defensive unit.

9. Cincinnati Bengals: Glenn Dorsey DT LSU

The Bengals are thrilled that this dynamic player has fallen to them. Dorsey was a standout LSU DT who was looking like the best player in the draft class. His absence from the combine and injury reports could potentially lead to him dropping this far, but I would be surprised if he fell any further considering Cincinnati’s horrible defense. Now, if Thurman gets his suspension lifted and Pollack decides he can play (although I wish he wouldn’t) that Cincinnati defense can have the powerful front seven it has been working on.

10. New Orleans Saints: Mike Jenkins CB USF

The Saints had a mediocre run defense that was hurt by their 30^th ranked pass defense. Even though they signed Randall Gay they should still look to add talented depth at the CB position and Mike Jenkins, with a 4.38 and a 34 in. vertical, can at times appear to be the best CB in this draft class. The Saints would be ecstatic to see the USF man fall to them.

11. Buffalo Bills: Limas Sweed WR Texas

It seems obvious that the Bills need a large, talented receiver to help their young QB and take some coverage away from the dynamic Lee Evans Limas Sweed is 6’4’’ 216lbs seems to fit the bill (pun intended) in Buffalo. Malcolm Kelly has been picked by most, but his refusal to participate in the combine or the pro day could hurt his position.

12. Denver Broncos: Chris Williams OT Vanderbilt

Matt Liepsis has retired and why not grab Williams who formerly blocked for Jay Cutler. I could see them going elsewhere in this draft, possibly going after a defensive player. The OT depth is considerable in this draft and the Broncos did draft OT Ryan Harris in the 3^rd last year to possibly take over this role. Denver has already signed Boss Bailey so the need at linebacker isn’t great making Chris Williams a viable choice.

13. Carolina Panthers: Jeff Otah OT Pittsburgh

I previously had the Panthers taking Kenny Philips, but the signing of Terrence Holt means that a safety can be pursued later on in the draft. For now the Panthers look to sign a tackle so that Wharton can be moved to the inside. The Panthers line being solid would go a long way towards helping the running game and protect Delhomme.

14. Chicago Bears: Matt Ryan QB Boston College

When Jeff Otah was available here previously I had the Bears grab him, but now he isn’t and so the Bears have two choices. Go after a receiver or take the Boston College QB here. Previously I stated that Orton meant that the Bears have stability and could pursue a QB later in the draft. However, with the offensive line talent off the board and the receiver talent lackluster, the Bears will look to add Matt Ryan. Orton can run the team while Ryan learns the ins and outs. Ryan can then turn a mediocre offense into a great one and will be a great QB for the Bears for a long time.

15. Detroit Lions: Rashard Mendenhall RB Illinois

Jon Kitna got sacked 51 times and the Lions had the 31^st worst rushing game. However, these stats could be misleading considering the nature of the Mike Martz offense. This could mean offense may not be a priority, especially considering the Lions had one of the worst defenses in the league. If the Lions had not gone after Leigh Bodden and Brian Kelly I would say corner should be a priority, but it no longer is. Then, Kevin Jones was fired so it would appear that the Lions may be after a dynamic half back and Mendenhall is just that. Mendenhall has the running and pass catching ability to really help improve the offense.

16. Arizona Cardinals: Keith Rivers OLB USC

Arizona lost Blaystock and Pace, thus there is a considerable void at outside linebacker. I could also see a running back here. I had Jonathan Stewart going here until his surgery. So now the Cardinals look to repair their weakened linebacker corp.

17. Minnesota Vikings: Derrick Harvey DE Florida

Minnesota was rather aggressive in free agency and was probably upset that Kearse decided to return to Music City. However, acquiring Bernard Berrian makes WR less important in the first round. The Vikings did have the best rush defense, but paradoxically the worst pass defense. I look at the talent the Vikings have in the secondary and am doubly confused. It just seemed that they were unable to make any plays in that respect and so I’ll call this season a fluke for the Vikings defense. So, with Udeze departing because of his leukemia the Vikings should pursue a dynamic DE and Harvey with his 30 plus tackles for loss and 15.5 sacks in two seasons fits the bill perfectly.

18. Houston Texans: Aqib Talib CB Kansas

I don’t know that the Texans will pursue corner with their first round pick considering they overpaid Reeves. However, a good secondary is necessary The Texans have been pretty smart so far with their drafting. They stay away from flash and go with substance. Talib is a good corner and can provide depth to a very weak secondary.

19. Philadelphia Eagles: Devin Thomas WR Michigan State

Philly was a pretty good team last year, they are just in the most competitive division in the NFL. When Mcnabb is healthy, he is pure magic. His main problem was him being sacked so much…44 times. That could be an offensive line problem, it could be a problem with receivers getting open, or it could be a Mcnabb problem. The only reason I have them going after Devin Thomas is that Philly was so aggressive in going for a receiver. Desean Jackson is still on the board, but Philly already has a speed demon in Kevin Curtis, so the big receiver could be very helpful. He can be a release valve for Mcnabb when he is in trouble. Devin Thomas may just be the best receiver in this class and the Eagles would love to land him.

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Desean Jackson WR Cal

Tama Bay has stated that they like all of the players in this draft and are happy to take anyone. This complicates things considerably. Any player could come off the board. However, I say they go after Desean Jackson. He can make an immediate impact on the field and eventually will replace Joey Galloway as Tampa Bay’s deep threat.

21. Washington Redskins: Calais Campbell DE Miami

The Redskins have actually been very smart thus far in the off-season and it’s amazing. For once, the Skins might actually build through the draft! If they do, it would be wise to put some youth into the defensive line and give Andre Carter a partner on the Dline. They could also go after an offensive lineman considering that at times it looked like Portis was running into a brick wall. They could also go receiver, but the D-line is priority.

22. Dallas Cowboys: James Hardy WR Indiana

The Cowboys have two picks in the first round and need a running back, wide receiver, and a cornerback. I have them going for James Hardy here because before they get to pick again, they have the receiver needy Titans going. The Titans would love to draft James Hardy, a big target, who can get open easily, for their scrambling QB. So, the Cowboys have to draft him now if they want him. Hardy is a big receiver who could benefit greatly from the advice (such as it is) of the sizeable Terrell Owens.

23. Pittsburgh Steelers: Branden Albert G Virginia

I have been looking forward to this pick for two years. For two years I have said the Steelers should go after a good offensive lineman in the draft. I can’t really complain though. Santonio Holmes was a great pickup. No good lineman was available in the 2007 first round so Lawrence Timmons made sense. It was cruel fate though to see our second round pick come up with Ryan Kahlil, the versatile center from USC, on the board only to see Lamar Woodley come off. I was upset, but it seems that Woodley will be a good player so once again I cannot complain. Signing Hartwig will probably move Mahan to guard, but remember that Hartwig has been hurt. If he goes down Mahan will have to return to center. Plus, I have my hesitations about Mahan in the first place. Albert will bring dynamic youth that will force everyone on the line to step up.

24. Tennessee Titans: Malcolm Kelly WR Oklahoma

The Titans need to open up their offense. Running Lendale White up the middle and the occasional play action pass does not make an NFL offense (clearly). Vince Young was used to running multiple receiver formations in Texas, but when you don’t have receivers, multiple receiver formations are tough. Vince Young desperately needs WR talent. Malcolm Kelly was hailed as the best receiver in the draft before he refused to participate in the combine and the OU pro day. At this point Malcolm Kelly will be a steal for the Titans and with their running game and Alge Crumpler, the Titans may make another playoff run.

25. Seattle Seahawks: Kentwan Balmer DT North Carolina

I have heard rumors that the Seahawks would like to draft an OT to be the eventual replacement for Walter Jones, but Gosder Cherilius is the only OT that has first round value. So, the Seahawks take a look and DT. Kerney dominated offensive lines with a mediocre interior crew. DT is the only weak point in this tenacious defense so the Seahawks look to land Balmer and make their defense one of the most imposing in the NFL.

26. Jacksonville Jaguars: Quentin Groves DE/OLB Auburn

The Jaguars have a very talented team. There only weak point would be DE. Hayward, even though he was hurt, did not perform very well. Not to mention the fact that McCray is now a Saint. So the Jags look to pick up the versatile Groves. The Jags did suffer some linebacker injuries so it would seem that Groves could help in that respect as well. Groves would be the Renaissance man this Jacksonville Defense could use to get it through another season healthy enough to make another serious playoff run.

27. San Diego Chargers: Brandon Flowers CB Virginia Tech

The Chargers have considerable depth in their skilled positions. They will be looking for the best player available here. Brandon Flowers will be a valuable corner to take the place of Florence in San Diego. If San Diego feels that they are good with their corners (one being Paul Oliver a potential first rounder if he hadn’t failed at UGA). If they don’t draft corner look for them to pick off a lineman defensive or offensive.

28. Dallas Cowboys: Felix Jones RB Arkansas

See the Cowboys previous pick for background. Dallas needs a change in pace back for Marion the Barbarian. Jones can do just that and help the return game as well. I could also see the Cowboys going after a corner and pursuing Chris Johnson.

29. San Francisco 49ers: Gosder Cherilius OT Boston College

The 49ers had the worst offense in the league…a far cry from better days. San Fran took Joe Staley last year and still had 55 sacks. Now Larry Allen and Justin Smiley are gone. The 49ers line could be worse off than before (hard to believe). San Fran desperately needs an offensive lineman and will be willing to take the best one available.

30. Green Bay Packers: Reggie Smith DB Oklahoma

Woodson and Al Harris play well, but are also aged. Al Harris looked desperate against Burress in the playoff game. Will Blackmon is not the ideal nickel back. Nick Collins had gotten hurt for part of the season. Reggie Smith was a safety who moved to corner recently, and played well. He is projected to be a great prospect at either position in the NFL. Reggie Smith could provide a good secondary with the depth it needs, not to mention a future. Reggie Smith is very physical and no one press covers like Al Harris. Smith can immediately help the Pack defense and learn from two of the premier corners in the league.

31. New York Giants: Dan Connor ILB Penn State

With Mitchell gone the Giants have a void at LB and pick one of the best linebacker prospects out of Linebacker U. Posluszny , had he not gotten hurt, was looking to be a major player in Buffalo and the Giants should expect the same from Dan Connor. Connor can immediately fill the void that Mitchell has left in the G-Men.

Why the Oakland Raiders Don't Need Darren McFadden

I often pass time during the off-season by looking at various mock drafts. Sometimes I agree and am even intrigued with what the mockers (for lack of a better word) are going for. However, on some occasions I am disheartened by what some believe and when multiple people display the same disheartening belief in their mocks, I get upset. Over the past few weeks, I was particularly disturbed to find that almost every mock draft I looked at had the Oakland Raiders selecting Running Back Darren McFadden of Arkansas. In my own mock I claimed it as a possibility considering that Al Davis is always on the lookout for a game-changing player, but I did not have the Raiders actually taking Run DMC. I do not think that the Raider’s with their second straight top five pick should draft the dynamic HB for a number of reasons.

Al Davis loves a great player, and in my view there is no greater player in this draft than Darren McFadden. However, when drafting, sometimes going for the best player available is not necessary and for the Oakland Raiders, this is one of those times. The Oakland Raiders had the 6^th Best Rushing Attack in all of the NFL, which is phenomenal considering they also went 4-12. I was amazed by the contrast of those two stats until I looked at the defensive statistics and saw that the Raiders hemorrhaged rushing yards on defense as well, giving up the second most rushing yards in the NFL. A solid defensive line is critical to stopping the run. Evidence will show that the Raiders did not have and still do not have stability along the defensive line. With the amount of defensive line talent available to the Raiders with the 4th overall pick, such as Chris Long, Vernon Gholston, Glenn Dorsey, and Sedrick Ellis, it would seem to make perfect sense for Oakland to try to fix their mediocre defensive line as opposed to stack their already good running back corps.

So, why not draft McFadden and then pursue D-Line later? For one the defensive line talent available later in the draft is not nearly as good as that which will be available with the 4^th overall. Second, the 6^th best rushing attack in the league is returning. Fargas and Rhodes are both definitely going to be back. Lamont Jordan may be cut, but he could be considered a drain on this rushing attack considering his 3.8 yards per carry. Dominic Rhodes could easily take over Lamont’s carries and improve this offense. Another running back may not be necessary.

Darren McFadden is a touchdown machine though and the Raiders were 26^th in points. Ok, this is a valid point. A young, dynamic running back that is hard to bring down and has a nose for the end zone would be useful to the Raiders. That is why they drafted former Louisville standout Michael Bush last year. This is the main reason I am frustrated with mock drafts that have Oakland taking McFadden. Has everyone forgotten that Michael Bush is waiting in the wings? Why draft McFadden for the reasons just mentioned when you can get all of that from Michael Bush. Bush runs with power (I rarely saw him brought down by his upper body), he has stupendous vision finding a running lane in sometimes atrocious blocking, and phenomenal footwork to get into the aforementioned slim running lane. The Raiders don’t have to look any further than their own roster to find a dynamic young running back. So in conclusion, because of their pressing need at D-line, the talented defensive lineman available, the already talented running back corps, and Michael Bush, the Oakland Raiders don’t need Darren McFadden.

First Draft of My Mock Draft

As I said in my last post, every year I do a first round mock draft. Usually I do it a week or two before the draft. However, now that I am blogging I figured it would be good to have something earlier. Feel free to comment on my mock draft. Before you read it I should warn you, this is a first draft. There will be many more revisions before the actual draft. I'll be sure to post my revisions. Also, you will notice that Matt Ryan is absent. I believe that he will fall in the draft. It happened to Roethlisberger, Rodgers, and Quinn. Later on I may decide he is fit to be in the first round. However, I honestly believe that if he falls far enough, some team will trade up for him. This mock does not account for trades and so Matt Ryan falls. So, with this being said, take a look and comment if you like.

1. Miami Dolphins: Chris Long DE Virginia

It’s no secret that the Dolphins are looking to shop their first overall pick, but it does not seem that there will be any takers. So now the organization must decide what position they need to shore up the most. They could look to Matt Ryan considering that all they have is John Beck. They could draft Jake Long and have a sound offensive line. They could also draft a DT to take care of the middle of the DL. I think all of these are viable options, but I feel that Chris Long is the hands down best pick for Miami at this point for a few reasons. First, no one was worst against the run than Miami last year and if nothing else Chris Long’s constant motor would help Miami stop hemorrhaging rushing yards. Second, if Jason Taylor stays in Miami Long would operate on the same side with Joey Porter and that combination could lead to a veritable sack fest. Third, if Jason Taylor does get traded, the void at DE would be too noticeable not to fill up with Long. For those reasons and his phenomenal combine, it seems like a no-brainer for Miami to select the Virginia DE.

2. St. Louis Rams: Sedrick Ellis DT USC

I have a great amount of difficulty making this pick and will probably change this as time goes on. The Rams have two needs that have to be addressed in the first two rounds of the draft. One is Offensive Line the other is the Defensive Line. It would make complete sense for the Rams to draft Jake Long and provide some much needed depth to the O-line. However, the amount of talent for the DL in the early second round is not as great as the talent for the O-line. Also, Orlando Pace and Alex Barron provide “stability” making O-line a secondary need. So I have the Rams selecting the talented DT first and therefore an OT second. With Ellis the Rams can move Carriker back to the end spot and shore up that D-line that let Najeh Davenport rush 100 plus yards.

3. Atlanta Falcons: Jake Long OT Michigan

Atlanta signed Burner Turner and so it is highly unlikely that they will go after McFadden. Atlanta wants to accomplish two things offensively. First, foster a power running game. Second, protect the QB. Jake Long will go a long way towards accomplishing those goals. So many mock drafts have Matt Ryan going here, but while I like Matt Ryan I think the signing of Redman fosters “stability” and with him the Falcons can pursue a very deep Quarterback class in the second round. Also, if Matt Ryan freefalls in the draft I could see the Falcons trading some of their many picks to move up and grab him.

4. Oakland Raiders: Vernon Gholston DE/OLB Ohio State

Al Davis has made a lot of questionable moves in his long history as Raiders owner, but do I see him really being attracted by the flashy running back with character questions…yes I do. It could very well happen, but I say the combination of Gholston being as fast as a linebacker and as strong as a tackle, no Warren Sapp, and the 6^TH BEST RUSHING ATTACK IN THE NFL RETURNING makes it seem ludicrous that Davis goes after the Arkansas running back. That rushing attack featured not only Justin Fargas, Dominic Rhodes, and Lamont Jordan, but also has at its disposal former Louisville standout Michael Bush. This, for most NFL owners, would be considered a full house and non-priority especially for a 4-12 team.

5. Kansas City: Ryan Clady OT Boise State

Herm Edwards has stated that offense is a priority for the draft, which makes sense considering that the Chiefs were near the bottom in almost every offensive stat. I would say that if McFadden falls here, it might be worthwhile for them to trade the pick to the highest bidder, but if that falls through working on their abysmal offensive line would make perfect sense. Clady is the next best thing to Jake Long as far the O-line goes, so it makes sense to go after him here.

6. New York Jets: Darren McFadden HB Arkansas

The Jets have been very aggressive in the off-season giving themselves a very impressive offensive line. Now if they draft McFadden and have him in a tandem with Thomas Jones, the Jets could very well be a contender again. Having McFadden takes stress off of every position on the offense. Thomas Jones will run better being part of a tandem, whichever quarterback plays will have a strong running game to back them up, and McFadden is a back that requires very little blocking. Needless to say Run DMC would make this Jets offense very dangerous.

7. New England Patriots: Leodis Mcklevin CB Troy

Vernon Gholston could be tempting here, but it is not the Patriots’ MO to draft a first-round linebacker, especially a converted 4-3 DE. Had Laurinitus entered he would have been the hands down pick for the Pats, but he did not and the Patriots are faced with drafting elsewhere. Asante Samuel and Randall Gay have both left for “Greener” pastures and so CB seems to be the pressing need, even if they sign Ty Law. Mcklevin can help make an immediate impact on an almost perfect team.

8. Baltimore Ravens: Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie CB Tennessee St.

Matt Ryan is still on the board and this causes the Ravens to look through their options at QB. Steve Mcnair feels he still has it, despite his performance against the Steelers on Monday Night. Kyle Boller has shown competency if not dynamic play. Troy Smith has shown that he can run the offense and can only improve. So, there is “stability” at QB. Plus, if Matt Ryan has fallen this far, chances are that a good QB will be available in the 2^nd round. So, the Ravens look at providing their aging, injury prone CB crew with some depth and youth. However, the Ravens are not copping out in the least. DRC seems to be just as much of a playmaker as his relative in San Diego and will help revitalize a fearsome defensive unit.

9. Cincinnati Bengals: Glenn Dorsey DT LSU

The Bengals are thrilled that this dynamic player has fallen to them. Dorsey was a standout LSU DT who was looking like the best player in the draft class. His absence from the combine and injury reports could potentially lead to him dropping this far, but I would be surprised if he fell any further considering Cincinnati’s horrible defense. Now, if Thurman gets his suspension lifted and Pollack decides he can play (although I wish he wouldn’t) that Cincinnati defense can have the powerful front seven it has been working on.

10. New Orleans Saints: Mike Jenkins CB USF

The Saints had a mediocre run defense that was hurt by their 30^th ranked pass defense. Even though they signed Randall Gay they should still look to add talented depth at the CB position and Mike Jenkins, with a 4.38 and a 34 in. vertical, can at times appear to be the best CB in this draft class. The Saints would be ecstatic to see the USF man fall to them.

11. Buffalo Bills: Malcolm Kelly WR Oklahoma

It seems obvious that the Bills need a large, talented receiver to help their young QB and take some coverage away from the dynamic Lee Evans. Malcolm Kelly at 6’3 224lbs seems to fit the bill (pun intended) in Buffalo.

12. Denver Broncos: Chris Williams OT Vanderbilt

Matt Liepsis has retired and why not grab Williams who formerly blocked for Jay Cutler. I could see them going elsewhere in this draft, possibly going after a defensive player. The OT depth is considerable in this draft and the Broncos did draft OT Ryan Harris in the 3^rd last year to possibly take over this role. Denver has already signed Boss Bailey so the need at linebacker isn’t great making Chris Williams a viable choice.

13. Carolina Panthers: Kenny Philips S Miami

Many mock drafts have the Panthers taking an OT in the first round so that Travelle Wharton can move inside to fill the hole Mike Whale has left. It makes sense, but not when there is seemingly very thin safety class and a very deep OT class. The Panthers have very little at safety so Philips can come in and make an immediate impact. The Panthers take Kenny Philips and bring one of Miami’s super safeties to Charlotte.

14. Chicago Bears: Jeff Otah OT Pittsburgh

This is a very difficult pick for me to decide on. Matt Ryan has fallen this far, but will a QB be the Bears primary concern? I don’t think Lovie has quit on Grossman just yet. Grossman did lead them to a playoff run. Even if Grossman can’t handle it, Orton has played well. While he isn’t dynamic, Orton can run the offense without making too many mistakes. The Bears strength has been their defense for years and I’ll consider this year a fluke. Meanwhile, Otah can help a dismal offensive line get by. He can power block and with his help Benson may rebound and be a useful running back.

15. Detroit Lions: Rashard Mendenhall RB Illinois

Jon Kitna got sacked 51 times and the Lions had the 31^st worst rushing game. However, these stats could be misleading considering the nature of the Mike Martz offense. This could mean offense may not be a priority, especially considering the Lions had one of the worst defenses in the league. If the Lions had not gone after Leigh Bodden and Brian Kelly I would say corner should be a priority, but it no longer is. Then, Kevin Jones was fired so it would appear that the Lions may be after a dynamic half back and Mendenhall is just that. Mendenhall has the running and pass catching ability to really help improve the offense.

16. Arizona Cardinals: Keith Rivers OLB USC

Arizona lost Blaystock and Pace, thus there is a considerable void at outside linebacker. I could also see a running back here. I had Jonathan Stewart going here until his surgery. So now the Cardinals look to repair their weakened linebacker corp.

17. Minnesota Vikings: Derrick Harvey DE Florida

Minnesota was rather aggressive in free agency and was probably upset that Kearse decided to return to Music City. However, acquiring Bernard Berrian makes WR less important in the first round. The Vikings did have the best rush defense, but paradoxically the worst pass defense. I look at the talent the Vikings have in the secondary and am doubly confused. It just seemed that they were unable to make any plays in that respect and so I’ll call this season a fluke for the Vikings defense. So, with Udeze departing because of his leukemia the Vikings should pursue a dynamic DE and Harvey with his 30 plus tackles for loss and 15.5 sacks in two seasons fits the bill perfectly.

18. Houston Texans: Aqib Talib CB Kansas

I don’t know that the Texans will pursue corner with their first round pick considering they overpaid Reeves. However, a good secondary is necessary The Texans have been pretty smart so far with their drafting. They stay away from flash and go with substance. Talib is a good corner and can provide depth to a very weak secondary.

19. Philadelphia Eagles: Limas Sweed WR Texas

Philly was a pretty good team last year, they are just in the most competitive division in the NFL. When Mcnabb is healthy, it is pure magic. His main problem was him being sacked so much…44 times. That could be an offensive line problem, it could be a problem with receivers getting open, or it could be a Mcnabb problem. The only reason I have them going after Limas Sweed is that Philly was so aggressive in going for a receiver. Desean Jackson is still on the board, but Philly already has a speed demon in Kevin Curtis, so the big receiver could be very helpful. He can be a release valve for Mcnabb when he is in trouble.

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Kentwan Balmer DT North Carolina

Tama Bay has stated that they like all of the players in this draft and are happy to take anyone. This complicates things considerably. For one, Matt Ryan is on the board and Jon Gruden loves to collect QBs. I could see Matt Ryan’s freefall ending in Tampa Bay, but I go with Balmer for the simple reason that Tampa Bay allowed 106 rushing yards per game. So, Tampa Bay goes with the third best DT in the draft and gives Gaines Adams some more help. I could also see receiver unless Tampa Bay lands a free agent before the draft.

21. Washington Redskins: Calais Campbell DE Miami

The Redskins have actually been very smart thus far in the off-season and it’s amazing. For once, the Skins might actually build through the draft! If they do, it would be wise to put some youth into the defensive line and give Andre Carter a partner on the Dline. They could also go after an offensive lineman considering that at times it looked like Portis was running into a brick wall. They could also go receiver, but the D-line is priority.

22. Dallas Cowboys: James Hardy WR Indiana

The Cowboys have two picks in the first round and need a running back, wide receiver, and a cornerback. I have them going for James Hardy here because before they get to pick again, they have the receiver needy Titans going. The Titans would love to draft James Hardy, a big target, who can get open easily, for their scrambling QB. So, the Cowboys have to draft him now if they want him. Hardy is a big receiver who could benefit greatly from the advice (such as it is) of the sizeable Terrell Owens.

23. Pittsburgh Steelers: Branden Albert G Virginia

I have been looking forward to this pick for two years. Two years I have said the Steelers should go after a good offensive lineman in the draft. I can’t really complain though. Santonio Holmes was a great pickup. No good lineman was available in the 2007 first round so Lawrence Timmons made sense. It was cruel fate though to see our second round pick come up with Ryan Kahlil, the versatile center from USC, on the board only to see Lamar Woodley come off. I was upset, but it seems that Woodley will be a good player so once again I cannot complain. I would not be upset to see them take Otah from Pittsburgh, if for nothing else that he would be used to the poor quality of Heinz Field. O-Line should be the only concern for the Steelers in this round. The QB that just received $108 million has been sacked 93 times in the past two years. Its time to protect him.

24. Tennessee Titans: Desean Jackson WR Cal

The Titans need to open up their offense. Running Lendale White up the middle and the occasional play action pass does not make an NFL offense (clearly). With Desean Jackson’s speed the Titan’s offense has no choice but to open up. Vince Young is used to running multiple receiver formations in Texas, but when you don’t have receivers, multiple receiver formations are tough. Desean’s speed and ability to get open will provide Young with a viable target for years to come and open the offense. He will help Vince Young live up to his potential.

25. Seattle Seahawks: Mario Manningham WR Michigan

If Balmer was still available I would imagine him being the Seahawks pick, but he is gone here. So with Hackett on the way out and Engram near retirement, the Seahawks look to beef up their receiver corps with Super Mario. He is a vertical threat and playmaker that will add to the very talented receiver corps that Seattle already has. They could also look for an OT to be an eventual replacement for the legendry Walter Jones.

26. Jacksonville Jaguars: Quentin Groves DE/OLB Auburn

The Jaguars have a very talented team. There only weak point would be DE. Hayward, even though he was hurt, did not perform very well. Not to mention the fact that McCray is now a Saint. So the Jags look to pick up the versatile Groves. The Jags did suffer some linebacker injuries so it would seem that Groves could help in that respect as well. Groves would be the Renaissance man this Jacksonville Defense could use to get it through another season healthy enough to make a serious playoff run.

27. San Diego Chargers: Brandon Flowers CB Virginia Tech

The Chargers have considerable depth in their skilled positions. They will be looking for the best player available here. Brandon Flowers will be a valuable corner to take the place of Florence in San Diego. If San Diego feels that they are good with their corners (one being Paul Oliver a potential first rounder if he hadn’t failed at UGA). If they don’t draft corner look for them to pick off a lineman defensive or offensive.

28. Dallas Cowboys: Felix Jones RB Arkansas

See the Cowboys previous pick for background. Dallas needs a change in pace back for Marion the Barbarian. Jones can do just that and help the return game as well. I could also see the Cowboys going after a corner and pursuing Chris Johnson.

29. San Francisco 49ers: Gosder Cherilius OT Boston College

The 49ers had the worst offense in the league…a far cry from better days. San Fran took Joe Staley last year and still had 55 sacks. Now Larry Allen and Justin Smiley are gone. The 49ers line could be worse off than before (hard to believe). San Fran desperately needs an offensive lineman and will be willing to take the best one available.

30. Green Bay Packers: Reggie Smith DB Oklahoma

Woodson and Al Harris play well, but are also aged. Al Harris looked desperate against Burress in the playoff game. Will Blackmon is not the ideal nickel back. Nick Collins had gotten hurt for part of the season. Reggie Smith was a safety who moved to corner recently, and played well. He is projected to be a great prospect at either position in the NFL. Reggie Smith could provide a good secondary with the depth it needs, not to mention a future. Reggie Smith is very physical and no one press covers like Al Harris. Smith can immediately help the Pack defense and learn from two of the premier corners in the league.

31. New York Giants: Dan Connor ILB Penn State

With Mitchell gone the Giants have a void at LB and pick one of the best linebacker prospects out of Linebacker U. Posluszny , had he not gotten hurt, was looking to be a major player in Buffalo and the Giants should expect the same from Dan Connor. Connor can immediately fill the void that Mitchell has left in the G-Men.

An Introduction

Howdy! My name is Derrick Angermeier. I suppose that an introduction is necessary given that this is my first post. I was born in Altoona, Pennsylvania, a little town about an hour outside of Pittsburgh. Since being born there I have lived in Florida, Georgia, back to Altoona, Georgia, Tennessee, and now live in Georgia. With all the moving in my younger years, my family was my social network. As such, I grew up with a northerner mentality. I have a great deal of respect for the blue-collar worker, do-it yourself mentality, and the Pittsburgh Steelers.
I come from a long line of Steelers fans. My Grandfather has followed them for most of his life and he passed this down onto my mom, uncle, my little sister, and me. I am always regaled with stories of my grandfather and uncle running out into the cold, snowy night after the Immaculate Reception. My Uncle makes a yearly trip to watch a Steelers and Penn State game. He was also in Detroit for Super Bowl XL. Some of my fonder memories have been watching the Steelers with my family. My Grandfather stood up and walked way from the tv after Polamalu's interception was taken away (something I still am upset about) in the Divisional Playoff Game, only to come back in time to see Jerome Bettis fumble on the two yard line. I teared up when Bettis said that Detroit would be the last stop. I have watched the Steelers through thick and thin, as a true fan should.
In recent years my interest in football has spanned beyond the Steelers. I have since been somewhat obsessed with the multiple goings on in the NFL. For three years, I have anxiously followed trades, free agency, the draft, training camps, and many other events that occur in the NFL. I can say with confidence that I have an in-depth knowledge of the rosters of each NFL team. I use this knowledge to develop mock drafts, make a championship caliber fantasy football team, and debate with my friends about various team moves. So now, I have decided to post my knowledge here on this blog. I will post mock drafts I have developed , theories I have, rumors I have heard, fantasy football information, and anything else football related I feel is noteworthy. So, with this all too brief introduction I shall depart. I hope you stay tuned.