2009 NFL Mock Draft: My First Draft

So I begin the mock draft season. This mock will probably be very different as more and more drafts are made. Free agency and the combine haven’t even happened yet. Draft stocks will rise and fall, teams will address needs via free agents. This off-season will be a great one and I await free agency with great excitement. I have confidence in my picks. A habit I cannot seem to shake is my stubbornness over QB picks as you will see when Tampa Bay selects USC’s Mark Sanchez. Oh well, I stand by my picks in this, my first draft of my mock draft.

Detroit Lions: Matthew Stafford QB UGA

A lot of people think that the Lions should hold off on drafting a franchise QB until next year when McCoy and Bradford come in. However, I disagree with that mentality. Holding off picking a franchise QB, when you went 0-16, screams that you are willing to settle for another losing season. Every year a team should want to win it all. The Lions had the worst year ever! They need a QB and they need him now. I think Stafford is their best option. Stafford has had experience behind makeshift offensive lines and his arm is ridiculously accurate up to 25 yards. Stafford has the strongest arm I have seen in a while, but he has trouble hitting the deep ball. With time, he can learn and having Calvin Johnson to bomb it to doesn’t hurt either. It might not be a bad option, provided they have the money to do so, for the Lions to keep Culpepper around to show Stafford how to be a strong arm QB in the NFL. Stafford could be a great QB for the Lions and in all honesty…he can’t make the Lions any worse.

St. Louis Rams: Andre Smith OT Alabama

Some people are reporting that the Rams scouts are lobbying for the Rams to take Michael Crabtree. It’s not a bad idea given that Torry Holt is getting older. However, if Andre Smith does well in the combine the Rams should jump on Smith. It is tough to have a solid tackle. The Rams missed out on Jake Long last year and they should definitely pick Smith up this year.

Kansas City Chiefs: Eugene Monroe OT Virginia

A LOT of people have the Chiefs taking Mark Sanchez. I have faith in Tyler Thigpen who emerged from the QB carousel he shared with Croyle and Huard and was a bright spot on the Chiefs. An off-season with Thigpen as the starter would go a long way towards his development. Kansas City could go in any direction with this pick. Curry would make a lot of sense given this defense’s dire need for a playmaker. However, I have them selecting Oher. I think that if Andre Smith remains the best OT, the Chiefs would be happy to bring in Eugene Monroe who came from the same alma mater as Branden Albert, who was great playing out of position. Monroe at LT would move Albert to RG and the Chiefs’ line would be that much more solid. They would run better and Thigpen would have more time. Monroe is a smart pick.

Seattle Seahawks: Michael Crabtree WR Texas Tech

The Seahawks had an abysmal passing game this year. There are arguments to defend the Seahawks though, Hasselbeck was hurt, wide receivers were hurt, the running game had a tough time. The simple fact is that Rookie TE Jon Carlson led the Seahawks in receiving. While having a TE lead in receiving is not necessarily a bad thing (cite Tony Gonzalez), its not ideal. A healthy Hasselbeck and Michael Crabtree would go a long way towards reviving the Seahawks offense which would bring life back to the entire team, only one year removed from a playoff run.

Cleveland Browns: Aaron Curry OLB Wake Forest

This pick was almost as tough as Kansas City’s pick. Cleveland has needs all over the defense and Jamal Lewis had a rough year. Many people say that Curry is an ILB in a 3-4. However, I think he could play on the outside in a 3-4. My concern with this pick is that the Browns’ two ILB’s totaled 244 tackles. The Browns need an OLB and if Curry can do that then he should be the hand down pick, but if he is a mismatch for that role, then the Browns would be better served going after Orakpo or Maybin.

Cincinnati Bengals: BJ Raji DT Boston College

The Bengals continue to need defensive players. Raji’s stock has seen a major rise in the Senior Bowl. The Bengals need an offensive lineman too, but the defense should be a priority. With Palmer back the offense should do better making defense the priority. Raji would go a long way to freeing up the ends and clogging running lanes.

Oakland Raiders: Brian Orakpo DE Texas

I got burned last year having the Raiders make the smart pick. So, this year, I have them making a different pick. They should draft Jason Smith of Baylor, but they will probably go after the dynamic Orakpo. I am pouting a bit. Orakpo is a smart pick as he is a beast. Burgess is getting older and the Raiders had the 31^st worst rush defense in the league. Orakpo would be great and fill the need that would have been filled by Gholston last year.

Jacksonville Jaguars: Michael Oher OT Mississippi

The Jaguars coached the Senior Bowl and Oher by extension. Oher has a phenomenal work ethic and is very talented. Oher would definitely help the Jaguars get through the o-line injuries that plagued them. Some people are down on Oher, but his love of the game and a good combine should raise his stock.

Green Bay Packers: Malcolm Jenkins CB Ohio State

With Al Harris having a rough time and Woodson being moved to safety there is a huge hole open at cornerback. If Jenkins makes it this far the Packers should thank their lucky stars and pick him immediately.

San Francisco 49ers: Everette Brown DE/OLB Florida State

The 49ers have had it rough at OLB. Manny Lawson, while one of the fastest linebackers in the league, has been injury prone. Brown could go a long way towards helping a good 49ers team become better. In response to those who have Sanchez going to the Niners here I will be writing a piece on that soon enough because the topic is too large for this venue.

Buffalo Bills: Brandon Pettigrew TE Oklahoma St.

The Bills have young talent all around that roster. A lot of people like them taking a defensive player, but I think that Pettigrew would bring coverage over the middle away from Evans and Hardy. A good TE could help the offense immensely.

Denver Broncos: Ray Maualuga ILB USC

The Broncos need defensive help. Maualuga is one of the best ILB’s in this draft. Maulauga will go a long way towards upgrading their linebacker corp. His power blitzing and coverage ability will be a great asset to any team that would draft him, especially Denver.

Washington Redskins: Jason Smith OT Baylor

The Redskins had a lot of offensive line injuries. The line had a rough time and drafting Smith would help and be an upgrade over Jon Jansen who the Skins are looking to replace. As far as drafting a d-lineman goes, they do have Jason Taylor still!

New Orleans Saints: Vontae Davis CB Illinois

Once again the Saints defense is a draft priority. They could easily draft Laurinaitis, especially if they don’t sign Vilma. However, Jason David is not the best corner and McKenzie is getting up there. Drafting the physical Davis would help against the pass as well as the run.

Houston Texans: William Moore S Missouri

Little known fact, the Texans were 4^th in passing! I couldn’t believe it. With those numbers and Slaton running well the offense should not be a priority. However, the Texans allowed a lot of yards and points on the other side of the field. Drafting a Safety in the first round would help stop the run and slow down the air attack. A safety is a very smart choice for the Texans.

San Diego Chargers: Knowshon Moreno HB Georgia

This pick assumes the following: That the Chargers will allow Darren Sproles to depart via free agency and that the Chargers are looking for LT’s eventual replacement. Knowshon Moreno would be a perfect compliment to LT and down the road his screen and receiving ability will prove invaluable to Philip Rivers who figures to be the future weapon of the franchise.

New York Jets: Tyson Jackson DE LSU

The Jets defense should upgrade their front seven and Jackson appears to be the best 3-4 DE in this draft. CB could also be a priority with this pick given that the Jets hired Ty Law to start mid season. However, I think a DE with the athleticism of Jackson is rare to come across and the Jets should capitalize quickly.

Chicago Bears: Percy Harvin WR Florida

A large part of Orton’s receiving yards went to tight ends and Matt Forte. Hester showed great development as a WR, but Lloyd, Davis, and Booker are not enough to compliment the speedster. Percy Harvin could provide a dynamic spark to an uncomplicated offense. The Bears could also choose to upgrade their pass defense, but I see the playmaker Harvin as an invaluable asset to Chicago.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Mark Sanchez QB USC

Mark Sanchez is a good QB. It broke my heart to watch him rip apart Penn State’s secondary. He shows great ability and has many physical gifts. That being said, I feel that he justifiably drops to Tampa Bay here. Thigpen is good for Kansas City. Orton is good for the Bears. I’ll explain the Niners QB situation soon enough. If Favre does retire the Jets might conceivably go after a franchise QB. Garcia will be 39 this season and the ownership has shown reluctance to bring him on board. If they do bring Garcia back, taking Sanchez should still be an option. I question Sanchez’s maturity and endurance. A year learning the system behind a veteran QB would be of great benefit to Sanchez and help Tampa Bay immensely. Sanchez just might be the perfect fit for Tampa Bay.

Detroit Lions: James Laurinaitis ILB Ohio State

Detroit is fortunate to have two first round picks in this draft. Detroit was dead last against the run. Laurinaitis was a born tackler whose instincts will serve Detroit very well. If a corner slips they’ll have great value here. Aaron Maybin is still on the board, but the Lions have a great deal of DE’s on roster. The Ohio State grad will help the Lions on their road to recovery.

Philadelphia Eagles: Chris Wells HB Ohio State

First, the Eagles have two first round picks so they should select the most dynamic player available. Second, Westbrook had a lot of durability issues. Buckhalter is a good running back, but not a gamebreaker. Tony Hunt has not panned out for the Eagles as of yet. Drafting Wells will be a great solution to help Westbrook remain fresh through the season and provide the Eagles with a strong running game in Westbrook’s absence.

Minnesota Vikings: Josh Freeman QB Kansas State

The Vikings made it into the playoffs and had one position hold their playoff run back. That position, QB. Tavaris Jackson threw an interception that gave the Eagles control in the game. He also had a 42% completion percentage. The playoffs can be rough on a QB, but minus a 4 touchdown performance against the Cardinals, Jackson had a mediocre regular season. I think that if the Vikings want to win and soon, they should draft Freeman. Freeman is becoming my favorite prospect. His rocket arm, mobility, and experience in a pro-style offense make him a rare commodity at QB. Childress can get a second chance at drafting a “Mcnabb” type quarterback. The Vikings a;sp have needs along the O-line if Birk leaves and in the secondary, but the most immediate need in my eyes is QB.

New England Patriots: Brian Cushing OLB USC

Cushing has had a rocky collegiate career. Injuries and accusations of steroid abuse could haunt him in the draft. However, Cushing is a dynamic athlete. He played multiple positions defensively that make him versatile. Many have him pegged as a 4-3 linebacker, but I think he could handle the Patriot’s 3-4 defense as he played a little DE in a hybrid 3-4. Cushing could easily fill any position on the Patriot’s linebacker squad and the Patriots would be lucky to have him on board.

Atlanta Falcons: Peria Jerry DT Mississippi

The Falcons passed on Glenn Dorsey for Matt Ryan, a decision I initially disagreed with but I was soon forced to eat crow. So, now that the Falcons have their QB, they shore up their d-line with Jerry

Miami Dolphins: Aaron Maybin DE/OLB Penn State

The Dolphins have a few defensive needs. DJ Moore would have good value here. However, Maybin has fallen this far and I think Parcells will not resist having a sack machine like Maybin working opposite from Joey Porter. This would also free up Roth to take ILB in the event Crowder departs. All in all if Maybin falls this far (which I think he may given his little amount of experience) the Dolphins should definitely pick him up.

Baltimore Ravens: Jeremy Maclin WR Missouri

The Ravens were top five in many categories, but one of those was not passing. Arming Joe Flacco with a dynamic WR should be a priority. Jeremy Maclin could be just that and provide Flacco with someone besides Mason to throw to.

Indianapolis Colts: Fili Moala DT USC

This is a reach and there is debate over whether he or Auburn’s Mark is the third best DT. However, DT is the Colts greatest need and with as good a team as the Colts have, they can afford to reach a little on this pick.

Philadelphia Eagles: Eben Britton OT Arizona

Philly could potentially lose both of its OT’s in the offseason this year. This makes OT a priority. If they feel like gambling they will select Wells first and then grab a OT. If they don’t want to gamble I suggest grabbing Britton and then grabbing the best available running back, which could be Pitt’s McCoy. Either way, Philly needs an OT and could definitely use a spell back for Westbrook.

New York Giants: Michael Johnson DE Georgia Tech

This pick will depend on the Giants intentions towards Mathais Kiwanuka. If they keep him at DE they would likely target an OLB, but if they move him back to linebacker they will probably go DE. I have them taking Michael Johnson. Those who doubt Johnson’s athleticism should know he played gunner on punts. Kiwanuka could make a return to OLB and Johnson could provide the Giants with the DE depth they so crave.

Tennessee Titans: Darrius Heyward-Bey WR Maryland

Collins did a great job managing the game for the Titans. However, there is still a need for a dynamic receiver. Heyward-Bey and his huge frame would be great for Collins and eventually Vince Young.

Arizona Cardinals: Lesean McCoy RB Pittsburgh

This pick could be very different if Edge stays around. Many people say the Cardinals don’t need an HB with Hightower around, but I beg to differ. Hightower is good and a phenomenal redzone running back, but his yards per carry was 2.8. That does not scream franchise running back to me. The Cardinals get McCoy who could help continue the postseason trend of the Cardinals actually running the ball.

Pittsburgh Steelers: George “Duke” Robinson G Oklahoma

Most people have the Steelers taking an offensive lineman…thank God! I had the Steelers taking a HB in the first round last year, but I didn’t think the front office would ignore the oline as much as they did! Carl Nicks of Nebraska was on the board forever! Well now they can make it up to the fans. Some people have the Steelers taking Alex Mack. That’s not a bad idea as he appears to be versatile enough to play multiple positions and was the most capable of handling BJ Raji in the senior bowl. However, Alabama’s Caldwell or Penn State’s Shipley could be available later and they would fill just as much of a need as Mack. If Robinson is available he should be the definite pick. Robinson is a fierce run blocker who has great initial burst and strength perfect for a pulling guard which the Steelers desperately need. Robinson, an upgrade over Kemo in my opinion, would fill a big need and go a long way towards protecting Ben. However, the front office should not placate us with this pick. Three offensive linemen have contracts coming up and I am not enthused about keeping any of them. Offensive lineman in the free agency would be nice in addition to drafting more than just Duke or Mack. The Steelers got to the Super Bowl in spite of our line, not because of them…most of the time it has to be the other way around.

Kansas City: A Rebuild

I am far from a GM, but it does not take a GM to realize the Chiefs have seen much better times. It was not long ago that the Chiefs made the playoffs. Since then they have had two abysmal years. I recently argued that Larry Johnson should remain in Kansas City and play out his contract. However, if he were to do so the team would still have to make radical changes in order to have any success. As I said I am no GM, but here are a few things I would prescribe for the ailing Chiefs.

First off, the Chiefs succeeded in hiring Scott Pioli for GM. Pioli has a great deal of experience in evaluating personnel, having followed Bill Belichick to every team he ever coached on. Some of the drafts gems the Patriots have had were the result of Pioli’s work. In 2000 as assistant director of player personnel Pioli would have been involved with the selection of Tom Brady. Needless to say Pioli will bring great talent into Kansas City.

Second, I am sad to say this, but fire Herm Edwards. I loved when the Chiefs signed Edwards. However, in his tenure there the Chiefs have entered a major decline. The last draft class was pretty good, but one good class that managed two wins is not good enough. There needs to be a coaching change. My recommendation would be Mike Shanahan. Although it would be difficult to conceive of Shanahan moving within the division, Kansas City would be a great fit for the veteran coach. Shanahan was fired more for his GM ability than his head coaching ability. Shanahan had a way of making mediocre backs and wide receivers into superstars. Imagine what he could do with Larry Johnson, Dwayne Bowe, and Tony Gonzalez! Other than Shanahan there are numerous other coaches who would be great fits in Kansas City. A rumor floating around is that Pioli will target Cowher next year, as the two are good friends. If the Chiefs keep Edwards on board for one year, they had better go after Cowher hard the next year.

Third, a marquee defensive player is needed. There is a lot of youth in Kansas City, but they could stand to have a little more veteran blood on roster. They could use the leadership on the defensive side that much is for sure. With D-linemen like Julius Peppers, Bertrand Berry, and Terrell Suggs possibly coming on the market, the Chiefs would be well served to bring one of these dynamic players on board. After all, the Chiefs only had ten sacks last year.

Fourth, a good draft is necessary. One can’t just throw money at the problem in free agency. The Chiefs had a pretty good draft last year. If they can follow it up they should be able to propel themselves into the playoffs sooner than later. As there is considerable depth in the offensive line class, Kansas City should capitalize on it early. Bringing in dynamic offensive linemen will open up huge holes for Larry Johnson, who will become more enthused to play. A strong running game will keep Kansas City’s defense off of the field longer. There is also need for new defensive prospects. I do not think they need a Stafford or Sanchez right now. Thigpen did very well in what was essentially his rookie year. A training camp with him as the entrenched starter will do a world of good. Thigpen also allows the top 5 pick to be used elsewhere.

Finally, there needs to be a new sentiment in Kansas City. With a player like Larry Johnson on roster the Chiefs need to run more. An offensive line specialist like Pioli should be able to bring a strong o-line to Kansas City reminiscent of the days of Willie Roaf. If the Chiefs run more, the clock will keep moving and the defense will get to rest. A strong running game would also open up play-action to Bowe and Gonzalez. A new defense needs to be brought in. I would suggest the Chiefs transition to a 3-4. Dorsey would be a great end in a system like that and Derrick Johnson’s athleticism would be put to better use. A new defensive philosophy will go a long way towards keeping Kansas City in more games, letting their running game take over.

The Chiefs can return to greatness. A new GM and culture turned the Dolphins from a 1 win team to a playoff contender. It is necessary for Pioli and whatever coach he selects, even if he keeps Edwards, to change the culture in the organization. Only by believing that the Chiefs can return to greatness can they achieve said greatness. So, I wish luck to Scott Pioli and the Kansas City Chiefs. I hope that your turnaround is sooner than later.

A Look Back: 2007 Mock Draft

I am continuing to review my mock drafts so here is my mock draft of the 2007 NFL Draft. I had properly predicted 6 players and 5 other position needs right. Had I not been stubborn in my argument for the Raiders taking Calvin Johnson I might have had a few more right, but oh well.

Oakland Raiders

Projected Pick: Calvin Johnson WR Georgia Tech

Actual Pick: Jamarcus Russell QB LSU

This pick was one I stubbornly made. I had a strong feeling that the Raiders would sign Culpepper and everyone was saying Moss was on his way out. I thought the Raiders would bring in Culpepper and provide him with the next best thing to Randy Moss, Calvin Johnson. The combination worked reasonably well in Detroit with very little practice time. However, the Raiders wanted their franchise QB, something that they can hardly be blamed for.

Detroit Lions

Projected Pick: Jamarcus Russell QB LSU

Actual Pick: Calvin Johnson WR Georgia Tech

I thought that the Lions would want an eventual replacement for Kitna. They would draft Drew Stanton later in the draft, but they added the Superfreak Calvin Johnson with the 2^nd overall pick. Johnson right now is the hands down best player on the Lions squad. Johnson was a great pick up.

Cleveland Browns

Projected Pick: Adrian Peterson HB Oklahoma

Actual Pick: Joe Thomas T Wisconsin

Joe Thomas has been phenomenal for the Browns, who had one of the best lines in football that season. Can you imagine what they may have been like though with Peterson in the backfield? It would have been a devastating combination, but the Browns seemed content with Lewis.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Projected Pick: Gaines Adams DE Clemson

Actual Pick: Gaines Adams DE Clemson

The Bucs needed a replacement for Rice at DE and Gaines Adams was the best in this draft class.

Arizona Cardinals

Projected Pick: Joe Thomas T Wisconsin

Actual Pick: Levi Brown T Penn State

When Wisenhunt and Grimm went to Arizona it was almost obvious that the Cardinals would go after an offensive lineman. I thought Thomas would fall to them, but while he didn’t the Cardinals were happy to draft Brown with the 5^th overall.

Washington Redskins

Projected Pick: Amobi Okeye DT Louisville

Actual Pick: LaRon Landry S LSU

I thought the Redskins would want the young DT to be a longtime anchor for their shaky defensive line. However, with rumors of the late Sean Taylor’s departure the Skins thought they would add the punishing Landry to the roster. Landry has been great for the Skins.

Minnesota Vikings

Projected Pick: Brady Quinn QB Notre Dame

Actual Pick: Adrian Peterson HB Oklahoma

I’m pretty much positive that the Vikings made the better decision in this draft. They had both Quinn and Peterson to pick from and they picked the much better player even though they already had a good running back on roster. This was probably the best pick in the 2007 draft.

Atlanta Falcons

Projected Pick: Laron Landry S LSU

Actual Pick: Jamal Anderson DE Arkansas

I thought the Falcons would want a safety. I’m willing to bet that after Milloy’s performance against Arizona safety will be a priority in the 2009 draft. However, they went with Anderson who has been an adequate compliment to Abraham.

Miami Dolphins

Projected Pick: Levi Brown T Penn State

Actual Pick: Tedd Ginn Jr. WR Ohio State

I could not believe the Dolphins made this pick. Brady Quinn was on the board and the Dolphins clearly had the need for a QB after Culpepper’s departure. Instead they take Tedd Ginn Jr. way ahead of his value. Ginn has developed nicely, but Quinn would probably helped give the Dolphins more than one win that season though.

Houston Texans

Projected Pick: Denver Broncos Adam Carriker DE Nebraska

Actual Pick: Amobi Okeye DT Louisville

This pick is why I don’t generally mock trades. I believed a rumor that the Broncos would trade up to get Carriker. I was very wrong and the Texans decided to shore up their defensive line for the foreseeable future. Denver would later draft DE Jarvis Moss in the first round so I had the need addressed, I just wanted it more than Denver did.

San Francisco 49ers

Projected Pick: Alan Branch DT Michigan

Actual Pick: Patrick Willis MLB Ole Miss

I thought the 49ers would want to upgrade their DT spot, but it was not to be. Instead they added phenom Patrick Willis. Overall, that is a better decision as I had Branch overvalued at this spot. Apparently I was told by a friend that if I had ESPN Insider I would have known the Niners were going to draft Willis. This is my shameless plug for ESPN.

Buffalo Bills

Projected Pick: Patrick Willis MLB Ole Miss

Actual Pick: Marshawn Lynch RB Cal

I thought that the Bills would want an ILB to fill the void London Fletcher left. They did draft Posluszny in the second, but with their first they added Lynch to replace Willis Mcgahee, seems like a no-brainer now that I think about it. Oh well, the Bills did eventually draft an ILB.

St. Louis Rams

Projected Pick: Jamal Anderson DE Arkansas

Actual Pick: Adam Carriker DE Nebraska

The Rams needed help along the defensive line that much was obvious. Even though they drafted Carriker as a DE, he played mostly DT in the hybrid system the Rams ran. Thus, there was still a need for a DE in the next year’s draft.

New York Jets

Projected Pick: Carolina Panthers Reggie Nelson S Florida

Actual Pick: Darrelle Revis CB Pittsburgh

The Jets traded up to get Revis before the Steelers could draft him. I can’t really blame them as Revis has been very valuable to the Jets Defense. I thought the Jets would go tight end, but the Jets had other ideas. They would get with my line of thinking the next draft with Keller, but getting Revis was the much better idea.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Projected Pick: Darrelle Revis CB Pittsburgh

Actual Pick: Lawrence Timmons OLB Florida State

If I had bowed down to conventionality I would have put Timmons down. Every mock draft under the sun had the Steelers taking Timmons to fill the void left by Joey Porter. I thought however that the Steelers would draft Revis to help their secondary and the return game. Revis would have been great! However, the Jets must have had the same idea I had because they made a substantial trade to get ahead of the Steelers. I have nothing to complain about however as Timmons has played great this year.

Green Bay Packers

Projected Pick: Marshawn Lynch HB Cal

Actual Pick: Justin Harrell DT Tennessee

This was probably my favorite moment of the draft. ESPN panned to Green Bay after the pick was made and you could see a bunch of kids looking at one another asking “Who?” Harrell was a pick no one expected. I and most people thought they would add a RB to the roster with this pick given that Ahman Green had left. Harrell has thus far not been a factor. One wonders that because this pick has not produced what it would have meant to trade for Randy Moss that off season.

Denver Broncos

Projected Pick: Jacksonville Jaguars Michael Griffin S Texas

Actual Pick: Jarvis Moss DE Florida

The Broncos did decide to trade up for a DE, but not until here. My rumors were wrong. Denver traded up for Moss and Jacksonville would later take Reggie Nelson. Thus I had two positions and suspicion of a trade properly assessed. I just had the players very wrong.

Cincinnati Bengals

Projected Pick: Leon Hall CB Michigan

Actual Pick: Leon Hall CB Michigan

The Bengals got assaulted through the air in the 2007 season. They needed to address their problems with this pick. Although their air problems continued Hall was a valuable pick.

Tennessee Titans

Projected Pick: Tedd Ginn Jr. WR Ohio State

Actual Pick: Michael Griffin S Texas

The Titans needed a WR for Vince Young, but the Titans refused to draft one. They went defense and while Michael Griffin has been great for them, you have to wonder if they would have benefited from a WR.

New York Giants

Projected Pick: Joe Staley T Central Michigan

Actual Pick: Aaron Ross CB Texas

I thought the Giants would want to upgrade their offensive line with the athletic Staley, but they felt it was better to address their secondary issues. Ross has been valuable starting for most of the season. It would seem I had this pick all wrong.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Projected Pick: Houston Texans Aaron Ross CB Texas

Actual Pick: Reggie Nelson S Florida

I thought Jacksonville would go safety in the draft, but then again I also thought Houston would be picking this low. Secondary seemed to be a concern for the Texans and I thought this low they would be able to get Ross.

Cleveland Browns

Projected Pick: Dallas Cowboys Anthony Spencer OLB/DE Purdue

Actual Pick: Brady Quinn QB Notre Dame

Finally the boy from Cleveland makes good. After an awkward waiting period the Notre Dame QB came off the board. I did have the Cowboys taking Spencer in the first round so I still got that pick right.

Kansas City Chiefs

Projected Pick: Dwayne Bowe WR LSU

Actual Pick: Dwayne Bowe WR LSU

Kansas City lacked dynamic WR play in their playoff run. Thus it seemed obvious that the Chiefs would select a WR in the first. Bowe was a good selection who has benefited the Chiefs immeasurably.

New England Patriots

Projected Pick: Chris Houston CB Arkansas

Actual Pick: Brandon Meriweather S Miami

If the Patriots needed anything they needed secondary players. I thought they would go corner, but the Patriots had other ideas.

Carolina Panthers

Projected Pick: New York Jets Greg Olsen TE Miami

Actual Pick: Jon Beason MLB Miami

This pick seemed a little odd to me. Carolina had a need for a tight end and with Olsen still on the board it seemed like they would pick him up, but instead they drafted Beason, Dan Morgan’s successor. Beason has been a dynamite defender for the Panthers and was a very smart pick up.

Dallas Cowboys

Projected Pick: Philadelphia Eagles Justin Harrell DT Tennessee

Actual Pick: Anthony Spencer OLB/DE Purdue

Spencer was a great fit for the Cowboys 3-4 defense. However, I debate the value of picking him up. After all they did draft Carpenter the year before. As far as Philly was concerned I thought they would need help on the D-line, but the last years pick Bunkley stepped up the next year and has started since.

New Orleans Saints

Projected Pick: Robert Meachem WR Tennessee

Actual Pick: Robert Meachem WR Tennessee

After the great year Drew Brees and Colston had, it only seemed to make sense to give Brees another dynamic weapon. Meachem has not really broken out as a primary target of Brees, but they say it takes three years for to catch up to professional football for some WR’s. We’ll see next season how much of an impact he will make.

San Francisco 49ers

Projected Pick: New England Patriots Lawrence Timmons OLB Florida State

Actual Pick: Joe Staley OT Central Michigan.

I thought the Patriots would go after a linebacker in this draft to eventually replace the aging Bruschi and Seau. However, they elected to trade this pick to the 49ers who added the dynamic blocker Staley to their roster. This was a good pick for the 49ers as he has started every game since his rookie year. That kind of durability is rare among NFL linemen,

Baltimore Ravens

Projected Pick: Ben Grubbs G Auburn

Actual Pick: Ben Grubbs G Auburn

The Ravens needed a great deal of help along their interior o-line. Grubbs, being the best lineman available seemed like a no-brainer.

San Diego Chargers

Projected Pick: Dwayne Jarrett WR USC

Actual Pick: Craig Davis WR LSU

The Chargers did not have a dynamic WR on their roster. Gates was obviously Rivers favorite target and a WR would free coverage off of him and take players out of the box against LT. However, the Chargers picked Davis who has yet to make a lasting impact. Although he did get hurt he has not been a factor. After all, the Chargers did trade for Chris Chambers later that same year.

Chicago Bears

Projected Pick: Paul Posluszny OLB Penn State

Actual Pick: Greg Olsen TE Miami

With rumors of Lance Briggs departing I thought the Bears would go after the dynamic Posluszny in this draft. He showed at Penn State the ability to play the inside and the outside linebacker positions very well. However, the Bears elected to pick a tight end who had had great production in the Bears system. Since the Bears were able to hold onto Briggs picking Posluszny would have been a waste.

Indianapolis Colts

Projected Pick: Jon Beason OLB Miami

Actual Pick: Anthony Gonzalez WR Ohio State

The Colts had two key departures in the off-season, LB Cato June and WR Brandon Stokley. I thought the Colts would draft to replace June who had a critical 142 tackles for the Colts in 2006, but the Colts decided to replace Stokley in the hopes on freeing up Wayne, Clark, and Harrison. This was not a bad decision as Harrison has struggled and will more than likely be replaced by Gonzalez soon enough.

A Look Back: 2006 Mock Draft

Before I begin my mock draft for 2009 I felt it would be appropriate to look back at some of my previous attempts at making a mock draft. The mock draft I am about to present is from the 2006 NFL Draft, a draft in which I only had two picks right, but I did have 7 other positions properly picked and a few needs properly diagnosed. The Texans not picking Reggie Bush with the 1^st overall pick ruined most of my draft. Also, a lot of first round trades hurt the mock considerably. This was my first attempt at Mock Drafting so please bear with me.

Houston Texans

Projected Pick: Reggie Bush HB USC

Actual Pick: Mario Williams DE NC State

The Texans offense was absolutely stagnant and Reggie Bush seemed to be a possible spark to jumpstart it. However, the Texans went with Mario Williams, a tough decision that has paid off for the Texans. Although I hated them at the time for messing up my mock draft I respect the Texans for choosing substance over flash. They made the tough decision and are a better team now because of it.

New Orleans Saints

Projected Pick: D’Brickshaw Ferguson OT Virgina

Actual Pick: Reggie Bush HB USC

Everybody knew the Saints needed major upgrades offensively. Drew Brees was by far the best pickup of that offseason. There were concerns about Deuce McCallister’s durability and the Saints needed to bring in fans after Katrina devastated the Superdome. To my chagrin it made perfect sense for the Saints to pick up Reggie Bush and although he has come on some hard times as of late, his value to that city at that time will forever be priceless.

Tennessee Titans

Projected Pick: Matt Leinert QB USC

Actual Pick: Vince Young QB Texas

McNair was on his way out and the Titans needed young blood. I thought they would want to change directions and have a pocket passer, but the Titans wanted to see a return of a mobile QB in Nashville. I can’t blame them; if Young is able to sort out his mental state he can still be very good for the Titans. I had the right position, just the wrong player.

New York Jets

Projected Pick: Mario Williams DE NC State

Actual Pick: D’Brickshaw Ferguson OT Virgina

I figured that with Abraham out of New York they would replace him with Super Mario. However, I did not realize that Mario would be going to Houston. Thus, the Jets shored up their offensive line by selecting the dynamic Ferguson. They would also later select Nick Mangold so it would seem that offensive line was a priority for the Jets in this draft.

Green Bay Packers

Projected Pick: AJ Hawk OLB Ohio State

Actual Pick: AJ Hawk OLB Ohio State

The Packers needed to revitalize their defense and AJ Hawk is a special talent. It seemed like an obvious pick and Green Bay must have thought so too. Thus, AJ Hawk became a Packer and I made my first ever successful projection.

San Francisco 49ers

Projected Pick: Vernon Davis TE Maryland

Actual Pick: Vernon Davis TE Maryland

What do you get to help a young QB? Quite simply a good TE. Davis was a phenomenal receiving tight end that also had great blocking potential. A tight end like Davis was supposed to help the run game and further Alex Smith’s development. This was my only other successful projection in this draft. While Smith never panned out and Davis has struggled, this was a solid idea.

Oakland Raiders

Projected Pick: Vince Young QB Texas

Actual Pick: Michael Huff SS Texas

I thought that if Young was available the Raiders would jump on him, after all Aaron Brooks was definitely not a long-term (not even a short term) solution. Given that the Raiders would draft Russell the next year it seemed I had the right idea. However, Young was not available and Davis clearly did not like Leinert so they upgraded their pass defense with Michael Huff. Huff was having a decent year, but it would seem the conversion to Free Safety did not benefit him. Otherwise upgrading the defense is never a bad idea.

Buffalo Bills

Projected Pick: Brodrick Bunkley DT Florida State

Actual Pick: Donte Whitner SS Ohio State

Buffalo needed to upgrade their defense that was for sure. I thought that they would want to do it on the ground as they would later in this draft with McCargo. However, they picked Whitner first who has benefited the Bills defense phenomenally.

Detroit Lions

Projected Pick: Michael Huff DB Texas

Actual Pick: Ernie Sims OLB Florida State

Once again I knew Detroit’s defense needed an upgrade, but they went with Sims. Hard to argue with that thought as Sims was one of the few bright spots in Detroit’s winless season.

Arizona Cardinals

Projected Pick: Winston Justice OT USC

Actual Pick: Matt Leinert QB USC

I definitely did not see the Cardinals taking a QB, but it was something they thought they needed. Bringing in Edge I thought they would go O-line and improve the run. Improving the run would have been great to help Kurt Warner along. However, it would appear I overvalued Justice considerably and Leinert was a steal. Hopefully he will pan out for the Cardinals down the road.

Denver Broncos

Projected Pick: St. Louis Jimmy Williams DB Virginia Tech

Actual Pick: Jay Cutler QB Vanderbilt

Shanahan clearly wanted his franchise QB and Cutler was definitely it. It is a shame Shanahan was fired and I hope it doesn’t hinder Cutler’s development. I felt that the Rams wanted to upgrade their secondary which they would do later in the draft, but it seems I overestimated Williams’ value.

Baltimore Ravens

Projected Pick: Cleveland Tamba Hali DE Penn State

Actual Pick: Haloti Ngata DT Oregon

Baltimore traded up to get Ngata, a smart move because he has been great for them. Ngata has been very special for the Ravens and only made its powerful defense more fearsome. With the next pick I had the Ravens taking Cutler. With McNair’s status unclear I thought the Ravens would want to bring in the brilliant Cutler.

Cleveland Browns

Projected Pick: Baltimore Ravens Jay Culter QB Vanderbilt

Actual Pick: Kamerion Wimbley OLB Florida State

I had Cleveland taking Tamba Hali, but that was a mistake. Hali is not suitable for a 3-4 DE. Wimbley is and has been a much better fit for the Browns than Hali would have been.

Philadelphia Eagles

Projected Pick: Nick Mangold C Ohio State

Actual Pick: Brodrick Bunkley DT Florida State

I thought that the offensive line would be a priority, but it was not as much as the defensive line. The Eagles would later draft Winston Justice, but Bunkley was their first decision. Bunkley was a good decision as he has started for them the past two seasons.

St. Louis Rams

Projected Pick: Denver Chad Jackson WR Florida

Actual Pick: Tye Hill CB Clemson

The Rams needed secondary help and Hill was the best secondary player available. As far as Jackson goes, I thought that the Broncos would want to revitalize their passing game and they did with Jay Cutler earlier in the draft.

Miami Dolphins

Projected Pick: Antonio Cromartie CB Florida State

Actual Pick: Jason Allen CB Tennessee

I had the right position, just the wrong player. I’m sure the Dolphins would have been happy with Cromartie as Allen has had difficulty holding onto the nickelback position.

Minnesota Vikings

Projected Pick: Ernie Sims OLB Florida State

Actual Pick: Chad Greenway OLB Ohio State

I had the right position. I just had the wrong player. It seems to be a common phenomenon.

Dallas Cowboys

Projected Pick: Kamerion Wimbley OLB Florida State

Actual Pick: Bobby Carpenter OLB Iowa

Once again I had the position right, but not the player. The Cowboys needed an OLB and they picked the best available. Parcells fought hard to bring Carpenter with him when he went to Miami, but there was no such luck and in Dallas Carpenter has made the starting lineup only once.

San Diego Chargers

Projected Pick: Jimmy Williams DB Virginia Tech

Actual Pick: Antonio Cromartie CB Florida State

I made a mistake. I put Jimmy Williams in my mock twice. I would not have gotten this pick right anyhow, but I still feel dumb. Oh well. Once again I had a position right, just not the player. It worked out well for the Chargers this way though.

Kansas City Chiefs

Projected Pick: Haloti Ngata DT

Actual Pick: Tamba Hali DE Penn State

Kansas City needed defensive line help and they went with the best available, Tamba Hali.

New England Patriots

Projected Pick: Bobby Carpenter OLB Iowa

Actual Pick: Laurence Maroney RB Minnesota

Maroney has flashes of talent, but he has thus far been unable to stay healthy and adapt to the pass heavy Patriots offense. I had them take a LB first round but they decided to hold off and would eventually add Junior Seau to the roster.

San Francisco 49ers

Projected Pick: Chad Greenway OLB Ohio State

Actual Pick: Manny Lawson OLB NC State

The Niners needed help in the pass rush and run defense. Both things that the speedy Manny Lawson can help with if he can stay healthy.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Projected Pick: Santonio Holmes WR Ohio State

Actual Pick: Davin Joseph G Oklahoma

Offensive line was a priority with the Bucs this draft with Joseph in the first round and Trueblood in the second. To my credit they did draft WR Maurice Stovall.

Cincinnati Bengals

Projected Pick: Mercedes Lewis TE UCLA

Actual Pick: Jonathan Joseph CB South Carolina

I thought the Bengals would benefit from the addition of a tight end taking safeties off of their elite wide receivers. However, they felt that they had to help their pass defense and rightfully so. The Bengals would eventually add Ben Utecht in an attempt to accomplish just that.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Projected Pick: New York Giants Eric Winston T Miami

Actual Pick: Santonio Holmes WR Ohio State

I can’t say I was unhappy with this pick. Holmes has been great for the Steelers. I felt that the Giants would want to upgrade the o-line, but I was wrong.

Buffalo Bills

Projected Pick: Chicago Bears Sinorice Moss WR Miami

Actual Pick: John McCargo DT NC State

I thought that the Bears would want a WR in the first round, but they appeared happy with their current corps. As I had thought the Bills needed to upgrade their defensive line in this draft.

Carolina Panthers

Projected Pick: Laurence Maroney HB Minnesota

Actual Pick: Deangelo Williams HB Memphis

Deshaun Foster was not enough to help the Panthers into the Super Bowl. Thus, they needed to draft a RB and although I had the player wrong, I had the position need properly diagnosed.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Projected Pick: Demeco Ryans OLB Alabama

Actual Pick: Mercedes Lewis TE UCLA

I thought the Jaguars would help out their linebacker corps, but they decided to upgrade their tight end squad. Tight End was a need and the Jaguars added a solid player with this pick.

New York Jets

Projected Pick: Deangelo Williams RB Memphis

Actual Pick: Nick Mangold C Ohio State

I thought the Jets would want to bring in an HB to replace Curtis Martin, but they chose to continue their offensive line upgrades. Mangold was a solid choice though and is playing well to this day.

Indianapolis Colts

Projected Pick: Lendale White HB USC

Actual Pick: Joseph Addai HB Louisiana State

The Colts needed a RB in the wake of Edge’s departure and it seemed like a no-brainer that they would use their first round pick on one. Addai was that running back for the Colts, not White who went quickly in the second round.

Seattle Seahawks

Projected Pick: Donte Whitner SS Ohio State

Actual Pick: Kelly Jennings CB Miami

Seeing as Whitner was taken much, much earlier Jennings was the best available defensive back. The Seahawks had a need, which they addressed with Jennings.

New York Giants

Projected Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers Mathais Kiwanuka DE Boston College

Actual Pick: Mathais Kiwanuka DE Boston College

I thought that the Steelers would want a versatile DE like Kiwanuka who could also play LB. The Giants had the same idea and have tried to move Kiwanuka all over the front seven.