Why Terrell Owens Should Be A Steeler

Well it’s July and once again one of football’s best players is still not on a team. When will Brett Favre rejoin the Vikings? Man, every summer with this guy!
Sorry for the levity, but in all honesty I find it amazing that T.O. is still a free agent this late in the game. I can certainly understand why that is the case though. T.O. was cocky and clashed with coaches in San Francisco. He was cocky and clashed with coaches in Philadelphia. He was cocky and clashed with coaches in Dallas. TO has a long history of blowing up in his coaches faces and the team suffering the consequences, but in all honesty was TO the downfall of these teams?

TO was in San Fran at the tail end of the 49ers dynasty. As it became unraveled it was easy to blame the flamboyant hot shot wideout. In Philadelphia, TO made comments that he should not have, but as opposed to addressing those comments and dealing with the matter in house, Andy Reid and the Eagles decided to deactivate TO for 11 games! It is interesting to note that in those seven games TO had a season remarkably like his season in Buffalo, stats wise at least. Why discard a player dominating so much for an entire season over a few comments? The Eagles went into a talespin and lost their best chance at a Super Bowl. In Dallas, Romo couldn’t get it done in December. TO had shouting matches with coaches in Dallas, but in all honesty with as much talent as Dallas has, how have they not won a championship? My guess would be that Jerry Jones’ puppet coaching crew is to blame and anyone with any knowledge of football would be able to see that the Dallas coaching staff leaves a lot to be desired. Notice, TO didn’t blow up in Bill Parcell’s face…but what do I know? I’m an amateur writer about to try and sell Terrell Owens to the Pittsburgh Steelers. The jist of what I am getting at is that while TO has never been a “good soldier” he is not necessarily the destroyer of teams that he is made out to be.

Ok so another mark against TO is that he gives up on plays when he doesn’t get his way. Valid point. TO is a world class whiner when it comes to getting him the ball. Dallas vs Pittsburgh he gave up on a route and ended up causing an INT that gave Pittsburgh the winning touchdown. That is a terrible mark against TO. He will occasionally give up when frustrated and not put the effort in. However, in that game TO had Dallas’ only touchdown, plus it was a fairly acrobatic grab with Ike Taylor all over him. TO has behaved petulantly, but in a season at Buffalo, I saw no petulance or whining despite numerous losses and a sharp decline in stats. TO went through football limbo and finally found out what it was like to be on a bad team. On a good team, TO would be grateful enough to give 100%...not to mention that father time in waiting to take TO’s skill. This year is almost now or never.

Well, TO drops a lot of passes. True. TO does drop a lot of passes. If he caught all of the passes he has dropped he may have passed Jerry Rice in receiving stats. Regardless of the drops TO is still in the top ten in most receiving categories. He may drop the ball occasionally, but he more than makes up for that in big play catches. So, it comes down to do the plays still outweigh the drops, drama, effort, and risk? Let’s take a look at what TO can do.

The problem in laying out what TO brings to the table is that what he has done after the whistle tends to shroud all of it out. I think to prove T.O.’s value to the Steelers, I have to explain TO’s skill set in terms of what the Steelers organization and fans expected out of Limas Sweed. For the uninitiated, Limas Sweed is a wide receiver from Texas that we drafted in the second round two years ago. He was supposed to be good, but in similar fashion to TO, Sweed had a problem making catches. The difference between the two is that TO can put drops behind him and make big time catches. Sweed was a tall guy as is TO. The difference is that TO is a workout warrior who is solid muscle. It is nearly impossible to prevent him from catching a ball in the endzone. Many have tried and many have failed. Sweed demonstrated a propensity for the crack block, which TO could easily duplicate and exceed. Can you imagine a team with TO and Ward run blocking? Mendenhall loves bumping runs to the outside and having TO and Ward clearing the edge would make for some nice rushing gains. Sweed had the ability to get open at will, TO most definitely possesses that ability. Even at 36 TO still got behind defenses all the time in Buffalo, but the weak armed Trent Edwards and Fitzpatrick could never give a satisfactory deep ball, just ask Lee Evans. To still has incredible speed and is in great shape for his age. He can still burn defenses and turn a five yard out into much larger gains. In a terrible Buffalo offense he averaged 15.1 yards per reception! TO can still play at a high level. To sum up, TO can do everything Sweed can do better and would make a perfect one year bandaid for the injured wide receiver.

I have made this argument before and the question always comes up, why do you want to ruin your team? Why? Well I do not see signing TO as a step towards ruining my team in all honesty. TO is viewed as a destroyer of teams, but we have seen that while TO handled things badly, ownership often handled things worse. The Steelers ownership would have no problem dealing with TO issues. They traded Holmes for a 5th and have a history of unloading troublemakers (with the notable exception of Ben). If TO acts up I have no doubt he will be shown the door. Also, the last time TO was coupled with a strong veteran wideout was in San Fran when Jerry Rice was playing. With long established Pittsburgh star Hines Ward opposite TO, I think there would be a competitive edge established among the two. Also, TO would have to share the spotlight with a wide receiver adored by his team and who has done something TO never did, won two Super Bowl rings. As I mention the rings, most of the people on this roster have Super Bowl rings, many of them have two. In the receiving corps alone Hines has two, Randle El has one, and Heath has two. On a team with champions who know what it takes to get to the big show, TO would be a good soldier and help get his teammates another ring as hard as he can.

The main reason I want TO on this football team is that this is a championship caliber football team. We brought back three Pittsburgh Super Bowl champs in Randle El, Larry Foote, and Bryant McFadden. Polamalu’s health will only become more of a question as he gets older and Casey Hampton, Aaron Smith, and James Farrior are not getting any younger. With Ben at QB we finally have an offense capable of carrying our defense, which it did against Green Bay and almost against Oakland, Tennesee, and Kansas City. The only weak points, besides oodles of sacks, for our offense last year were short yardage plays and red zone TDs. TO could easily take care of both of those problems. Any time he is on the field he takes coverage away from others so even if he isn’t making the plays, Hines Ward is a lot less covered and Wallace/Miller get chances to make plays. The loss of Holmes will be felt and I question Mike Wallace’s ability to withstand intense coverage. Defenses will slide towards Mike, but with TO in town, defenses will have to respect a lot of targets and will fail to stop Ben from moving up the field. TO will be an asset to Pittsburgh and could elevate us from a team fighting to get into the playoffs into a championship contender. That is why I want TO to be a Steeler.

PS: For Steelers management, I would buy an Owens Steeler jersey the second they were available. Doesn’t it look awesome? Please, Let me get my popcorn ready!

The Luck of the Irish

The 2008 NFL Draft was seemingly a good one for the Panthers. They power blocker Jeff Otah and the powerful Jonathan Stewart. However, it would have a domino effect that may have ended John Fox and GM Marty Hurney’s tenures in Carolina. Picking Jonathan Stewart and Jeff Otah was not bad by any means. However, they traded away their first round pick for 2009. In the 2009 NFL Draft the Panthers traded their 2010 first round pick away for Everette Brown. Brown hopefully will prove to be the departed Julius Peppers’ replacement. It’s a nice pick. The Panthers have had some nice drafts the past few years, but one position has been noticeably absent. What is that position? The QB.

Going into the 2008 NFL draft, the Panthers had Jake Delhomme who was coming off of major elbow surgery on his throwing arm. Delhomme was injured and turned 32. Many teams would consider looking for an eventual replacement. I even mocked that the Panthers would go after Matt Ryan. The Panthers were not concerned. They had faith that Delhomme’s arm would recover and, as can be seen, had the plan to majorly upgrade their running game, lowering the amount of throws Delhomme would have to make. Plus, in the three games that Delhomme played in 2007, he did have a touchdown ratio of 8 to 1.

The Panthers’ faith was vindicated when they got to the playoffs in 2008. However, Delhomme melted down and threw five interceptions in the wildcard against Arizona. So let’s check the rap sheet, injury, turning 33, weakening arm strength, and skill/mental decline. Even more teams would be looking to add a QB for the future. Again, not the Panthers. Like I had mentioned, the Panthers prioritized replacing the departing Peppers and once again left themselves without a first round pick. The 2009 season? Delhomme only threw eight touchdowns and deprived the Panthers of many more. I had Deangelo Williams on my fantasy team, so I watched a lot of Panthers football. Many was the time the Panthers running game would get them into the red zone only to have Delhomme throw an INT. Delhomme absolutely melted down, but as the only other QB was Matt Moore, the Panthers were stuck with Delhomme for much of the year.

Jake Delhomme’s fall from grace could have taken John Fox and Marty Hurney down as well. The Panthers had Matt Moore at QB…and that was it. With Peppers on his way out and a lackluster offensive season looming, the Panthers Front Office was by all appearances going to be on its way out and fairly soon. The Quarterback is arguably to most important position in the NFL and the Panthers’ front office totally ignored it. They refused to admit they had a QB crisis on their hands. Instead of going after young promising talent (although Matt Moore does have promise) they instead continued to drink from the ever diminishing pool of Jake Delhomme’s talent. If something were to happen to Matt Moore and/or the Panthers did not make it to the playoffs this season, John Fox and Hurney would have been out the door. Thankfully though, that was not to be.

Due to the largest disparity between mock and actual pick in Mel Kiper’s career, Jimmy Clausen fell to the Panthers in the second round. Many people (apparently not NFL executives) thought that Clausen was top ten talent. In my own mock I said the following:

“I watched a bunch of game play from this past year and Clausen had gotten rid of the bad decision making that plagued his first two years. Clausen is quick and plays very well in play action. He also is insanely accurate. As far as arm strength. I watched a highlight reel and Clausen threw from the 4 yard line to the 50 yard line. He also threw from ND’s own 44 to about three deep in the endzone. That is a 46 yard pass and a 59 yard pass, both of which were caught. Clausen has the mobility, arm strength, and meticulous accuracy. Clausen could be the long awaited answer to Buffalo’s offensive woes.”

Well, Buffalo passed on him twice and the Panthers got the biggest steal in the draft. Clausen has a powerful arm and is very accurate. Steve Smith might just be crying. He now has a powerful deep arm and a QB who can get it to him in stride, not that Steve Smith is above making circus catches. It is almost unbelievable that Clausen fell to the Panthers and the Panthers got away with one of the worst conceived draft strategies known to man. As a matter of fact, if Clausen succeeds early and gets the Panthers to the playoffs, no one will remember their flub. People will look back and see 2008 as building the running game, 2009 as bolstering the defense, and 2010 as the year of Clausen. Sometimes it is better to be lucky than good and the Panthers may just be the perfect example of that.

As far as how the Panthers will do, that is a little in the air. With the Delhomme turnover factory moved to Cleveland, as long as Clausen can keep turnovers down, it is safe to assume that the double headed dragon that is Deangelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart, occasionally aided by Steve Smith, will put points up on the board. It has yet to be seen the impact that Peppers departure will have on defense, but regardless the offense can carry the Panthers to at least a wild card bid. It all depends on the Savior from Notre Dame and maybe a little luck.

2010 Mock Draft In Review

This draft was entertaining. As far as my mock I got 9 right and an additional 5 positions right. Nine is the best I have ever done (a +1 improvement from last year) .That’s not too bad for a draft filled with trades and containing two pretty big reaches. Overall I enjoyed this draft season and have a good bit to write about post draft. This is my mock draft in review. I hope you enjoy. I am only now realizing I never did one from last year, so I will release one shortly. Enjoy!

1.St. Louis Rams: Sam Bradford QB Oklahoma
Projected Pick: Sam Bradford QB Oklahoma

Pretty obvious in all honesty. In Bradford, hopefully the Rams have a QB to revive the franchise. However, Bradford has come into a bad situation. His line is nice, but his receiver talent is less than spectacular. Also, the Rams have to be concerned about (and this is my new favorite nickname for him) “The Glass Cannon” If Bradford gets hurt, that’s it so protect him well. I would suggest getting a veteran QB to take the first few weeks of assault, but who knows Ryan, Flacco, Sanchez, and Roethlisberger did well their rookie years.

2.Detroit Lions: Ndamukong Suh DT Nebraska
Projected Pick: Ndamukong Suh DT Nebraska

Nice pick. An offensive lineman would have been nice, but Suh is a beast who will definitely shore up part of Detroit’s defense. Let’s just hope Julius Peppers, Jared Allen, and Clay Matthews don’t remember how to get to the QB.

3.Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Gerald McCoy DT Oklahoma
Projected Pick: Gerald McCoy DT Oklahoma

This was pretty obvious as well. Drafting another defensive tackle after this was a little surprising, but overall this was a great pick for a team previously known for defense.

4.Washington Redskins: Trent Williams OT Oklahoma
Projected Pick: Trent Williams OT Oklahoma

This was a tossup between Williams and Okung. Williams was the better fit in Shanahan’s offense and so gets the pick. Mcnabb’s blindside is now protected and the Shanahan running back factory is in business. What more can you ask from a first round pick?

5.Kansas City Chiefs: Eric Berry FS Tennessee
Projected Pick: Brian Bulaga OT Iowa

Quote from my blog: “Eric Berry would be the best pick for them (Kansas City).” I like the pick. I am just sad with myself for trusting Pioli for saying he was not comfortable with the track record of safeties this high. I should know never to trust a Patriot former or otherwise.

6.Seattle Seahawks: Russell Okung OT Oklahoma State
Projected Pick: Russell Okung OT Oklahoma State

Okung was rated as the best tackle in the draft and so Seattle gets a steal with this pick. Good luck Okung, you are replacing a legend in Walter Jones.

7.Cleveland Browns: Joe Haden CB Florida
Projected Pick: Eric Berry S Tennessee

Cleveland needed to bolster its secondary. Berry would have been nice, but getting Haden will add a lock corner to the Browns roster. It also carries with it the flexibility to move Sheldon Brown where he is needed. Overall a nice pickup.

8.Oakland Raiders: Rolando McClain ILB Alabama
Projected Pick: Mike Iupati G Idaho

Someone at the Raiders camp knew how to keep a secret. I heard absolutely nothing about this pick. Do you know why? It makes a great deal of sense. McClain was an impact defender from the National Champion Crimson Tide. He is a thumper and instinctive. The Raiders failed to add a new QB, so why waste a pick on an offensive lineman when the line you have is damn good at run blocking. The pick makes a great deal of sense…which is why no one saw it coming.

9.Buffalo Bills: CJ Spiller RB Clemson
Projected Pick: Jimmy Clausen QB Notre Dame

I thought they would go after a QB, but I was wrong. The Bills wanted nothing to do with Clausen even after he fell to them in the second. That’s ok, Carolina is ecstatic, but we’ll talk about that later. CJ Spiller is a great pick. Even if Lynch is not traded, with Buffalo’s field being the way it is, you have to really run the football. Thus having two or three running backs does not hurt at all. Buffalo is going to need a strong running game, especially if it is going to go into the season with Brian Brohm at the helm. Spiller is a homerun threat any time he touches the ball and should make his impact felt in the AFC East.

10.Jacksonville Jaguars: Tyson Alualu DT California
Projected Pick: Earl Thomas S Texas

I thought Jacksonville would mess up my mock draft, but in all honesty I never saw this coming. This is the second biggest reach I have ever seen…the biggest is to come. Anyhow, considering that Henderson was apparently out the door this pick makes sense. However, why draft Alualu when Williams or Price was on the board. The Jags must see something I don’t. Oh well, soon Tyson will be a LA, oops, Jacksonville Jaguar and one that should bolster the interior defensive line.

11.San Francisco 49ers: Anthony Davis OT Rutgers
Projected Pick: Anthony Davis OT Rutgers (17th Overall)

Well, I was right. I don’t quite know why the 49ers felt they had to trade up to get Davis, but nevertheless they got their man. He will protect Smith’s right side. I like the commitment to beefing up the offense and keeping Alex Smith upright. Like I said, the 49ers playoff hopes rest on Smith’s arm.

12.San Diego Chargers: Ryan Matthews RB Fresno State
Projected Pick: Ryan Matthews RB Fresno State (28th)

Trades always mess up mock drafts, unless you had the player they are trading up for falling to them. Twice this happened and I am ecstatic. I had heard whispers that Seattle might go after Matthews if he was on the board. Apparently San Diego agreed and jumped up to grab Matthews, who will immediately be expected to start and perform. I’ll give you the same advice I gave Okung, Good Luck, your replacing a legend in LT.

13.Philadelphia Eagles: Brandon Graham DE Michigan
Projected Pick: Everson Griffen DE USC

This trade did mess things up. Oh well, I’m used to it by now. I am at least happy I diagnosed the position right. It is hard to blame the Eagles for going after a great DE. It is a solid pickup that will hopefully help the Eagles stem the Cowboys offense.

14.Seattle Seahawks: Earl Thomas S Texas
Projected Pick: CJ Spiller RB Clemson

Spiller or apparently Matthews would have been nice, but things don’t always work out. Seattle’s not worried though. They go t a versatile player for a secondary in desperate need of one. However, they also got a safety in San Fran bitter and ready to prove his former coach wrong. So, the NFC West just got a little more interesting.

15.New York Giants: Jason Pierre Paul DE South Florida
Projected Pick: Rolando McClain ILB Alabama

Curse Al Davis, he has ruined yet another mock. By grabbing McClain, he sent a cascading effect that messed up my mock draft. Thankfully though, it messed up other peoples a lot worse, so C’est la Vie. Anyhow, this is a nice pick. At one time I had the Giants taking Paul. He will add depth to a fearsome pass rush and give the Giants a little leeway with Osi. Nice pick.

16.Tennessee Titans: Derrick Morgan DE Georgia Tech
Projected Pick: Derrick Morgan DE Georgia Tech

Quote from my mock, is says everything I could: “Tennessee’s most obvious need entering the 2010 draft is a defensive end. If the Titans defense is going to have any hope of generating a pass rush, they had best draft the best DE available. That being said, Morgan is arguably the best DE in this draft and so need meets top of the line value.”

17.San Francisco 49ers: Mike Iupati G Idaho
Projected Pick: Joe Haden CB Florida (13th)

I love this pick. It establishes the 49ers offensive line (now possessing 3 first rounders) and freed us up to grab Pouncey. Great pick San Fran.

18.Pittsburgh Steelers: Maurkice Pouncey C Florida
Projected Pick: Maurkice Pouncey C Florida.

When they announced this pick, I lost it. I jumped up and down, screamed in excitement, and about tired myself out. GREAT PICK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We actually took an investment in protecting Ben and establishing a running game…it was a great moment. I should still have the bottlecap from Root Beer I opened. If I do, then it will be forever enshrined as the day the Steelers listened to me and subsequently the day I predicted what the Steelers would draft.

19.Atlanta Falcons: Sean Witherspoon OLB Missouri
Projected Pick: Jason Pierre Paul DE South Florida

It hard to tell what might have happened had Paul fallen here. However, from reports I had heard, the Falcons were pretty high on Witherspoon. Regardless, this is a solid pick for the Falcons. Now they have an impact linebacker who can become the leader the Falcons will need after Mike Peterson leaves. Solid pick.

20.Houston Texans: Kareem Jackson CB Alabama
Projected Pick: Kyle Wilson CB Boise State

It always hurts when you get the right position mocked, and a team goes for someone else at the position. You are so close, yet so far. Oh well. Jackson fills the void left by Robinson and will hopefully help the Texans do what they must to get to the playoffs…stop Peyton Manning.

21.Cincinnati Bengals: Jermaine Gresham TE Oklahoma
Projected Pick: Taylor Mays S USC

I never thought it would happen. The Bengals drafted a tight end. Tight ends are useful and a good one can make a QB. Ask Michael Vick how valuable Alge Crumpler was or better yet ask Peyton Manning how useful Dallas Clark is. This is a much better pick than Taylor Mays and may just help Carson Palmer return to form.

22.Denver Broncos: Demaryius Thomas WR Georgia Tech
Projected Pick: Dez Bryant WR Oklahoma State (11th)

Well, did not see this coming, the Patriots traded down…who would have thought? Anyhow, Denver lands a decent receiver with this pick. He is a great run blocker, but I will always remember him as the wideout that dropped an easy 4th down conversion against Georgia, let’s hope it doesn’t haunt him. Thomas is a nice pick and should help ease the loss of Marshall and his 100+ catches.

23.Green Bay Packers: Brian Bulaga OT Iowa
Projected Pick: Chris Brown OT USC

Again position right, but who would have thought Bulaga would fall this far…only every analyst who thinks he will be a bust. I think that as a swing tackle, Green Bay got great value. This pick will go a long way towards protecting Aaron Rodgers, the key to the Pack winning football.

24.Dallas Cowboys: Dez Bryant WR Oklahoma State
Projected Pick: Roger Saffold OT Indiana

I did not think that the Cowboys would draft Saffold. Its not flashy enough. Drafting Dez Bryant when you have Miles Austin and Roy Williams…that’s flashy. The Cowboys got a pretty solid wideout in my opinion. He will be yet another valuable weapon in the Jason Garrett offense. However, I do not see Bryant as the missing piece to a Super Bowl trip, at least not this year.

25.Denver Broncos: Tim Tebow QB Florida
Projected Pick: Jermaine Gresham TE Oklahoma (to Baltimore)

BIGGEST REACH EVER!!!!!!!!! I’ll write a piece on this pick later. For now, thank you Denver! You gave Baltimore a considerable amount of firepower to get Tebow. Were the Cardinals that much of a threat to get Tebow? Your picks helped Baltimore get three players, one of them being Sergio Kindle. Was Tim Tebow worth three players? Respect to Baltimore for jumping all over THE SECOND BEST DEAL EVER! I kind of liked Denver, especially after they drafted Knowshon Moreno and got Brady Quinn. Now I am left with a sour taste in my mouth….the type of taste that only a former Patriot could leave.

26.Arizona Cardinals: Dan Williams DT Tennessee
Projected Pick: Brandon Graham DE/OLB Michigan

Great pick for Arizona. Williams’ fall made great value for Arizona. Now they have a monster in the middle that will free up Arizona’s remaining playmakers to make impacts on defense. Great pick!

27.New England Patriots: Devin McCourty CB Rutgers
Projected Pick: Jared Odrick DE/DT Penn State (22nd)
Well, this is not a bad pick. I thought the Pats would want to get a player to bolster their front seven, however with the Jets adding Santonio and Miami adding Marshalll, the need for a corner can be seen. I still think the Patirots lack the necessary veteran leadership on defense, but what do I know? Respect to those who run the Patriots’ draft, they are pros. The Patriots always do a good job of having plenty of pick available for next year. Someday, after Ty Law, Willie McGinest, Richard Seymour, Tedy Bruschi, Mike Vrabel, and Rodney Harrison have left, they might just use a few.

28.Miami Dolphins: Jared Odrick DE/DT Penn State
Projected Pick: Dan Williams DT Tennessee

I like this pick. I was in the camp that had the Dolphins taking 3-4 DE Chris Long two years ago. This is a nice pick and should go a long way towards shoring up a front seven in desperate need of shoring up. Plus, I get to cheer Odrick on against the Patriots instead of boo him. Nice Pick.

29.New York Jets: Kyle Wilson CB Boise State
Projected Pick: Sergio Kindle DE/OLB Texas

What do you do when you have two gamebreaking corners, a Super Bowl MVP at wideout, a Hall of Famer at runningback, and a Defensive Player of the Year at OLB? You draft another solid corner. Some ask why, I ask why not? Even though I hate the Santonio trade, it is hard to blame them for jumping on THE BEST DEAL EVER! If the Jets are going to own up to their responsibility of fighting the Patriots I say go whole hog. The Jets can now put Moss of Revis island, have Wilson cover Wes Welker underneath (Wilson is a great tackler), and Cromartie can just take Tom Brady’s third option out of the picture. J-E-T-S! JETS! JETS! JETS! That is until December 19th, then you guys totally suck.

30.Detroit Lions: Jahvid Best RB California
Projected Pick: Terrence Cody DT Alabama (to Minnesota)

I did not see this coming, nor the urgency to jump up three picks to grab him. Kevin Smith must be in some trouble if they made this pick. However, I agree with it entirely. A halfback is a major need for Detroit’s offense…a tackle to keep Stafford upright is more of a need, but this is at least a step in the right direction. A strong running game and a suitable dump off player might help Stafford, at least a little bit.

31.Indianapolis Colts: Jerry Hughes DE TCU
Previous Pick: Brian Price DT UCLA

Well, as a Super Bowl team, you know you have something right (Peyton). So that gives you the luxury to draft whatever you want. Many would say a linebacker would be good or a DT to free up Freeney/Mathis or even an offensive lineman to help establish the run a little more. NAH! The strength of the Colts defense is its pass rush. Look at the New York Giants who have about 10 players on the defensive line capable of starting. That’s what won the Giants their Super Bowl (that and former Steeler Plaxico Burress). So, if this is the missing piece for another Super Bowl run, credit to the Colts for bolstering their strengths.

32.New Orleans Saints: Patrick Robinson CB Florida State
Projected Pick: Sean Witherspoon OLB Missouri

It looks as if the ship has sailed on Darren Sharper as a Saint. Its ok, the Saints and Sharper definitely benefitted. Not only did the Saints get a ring and a defense worthy of Brees and that offense, but Sharper’s guidance could prove invaluable as Malcolm Jenkins makes the switch to safety. I think that is why the Saints drafted a corner, to make Jenkins’ conversion complete. If that’s the case, nice job. The Saints defense looks poised to make another playoff run, even if it is done on a path of broken quarterbacks.

Grading the Steeler's Draft

1.Maurkice Pouncey C Florida
Grade: 100
GREAT PICK!!!!!! Finally we drafted an offensive lineman in the first round. As I stated in my mock, Pouncey is the perfect fit for our team. He is a center used to picking up complicated SEC blitzes and monstrous nose tackles. Tebow also worked in a mobile pocket, something Ben does 75% of the time. Pouncey will work well in our system, upgrade the interior of our line, and as he is only 20 he will be a starter for the Steelers offensive line for a long time.


2.Jason Worilds OLB/DE Virginia Tech
Grade: 90
Some will say “why a linebacker?” I say “Why not?” It used to be that future linebacker stars for the Steelers would make major impacts on special teams. I can remember James Harrison blocking a punt and running down many returners. I remember Timmons blasting punt returners. Going into the draft, I did not see anyone on our special teams that could take over at any of the four linebacker spots. Drafting solid linebackers with promising futures is a step in the right direction. It will go a long way towards establishing much needed depth in the linebacker corps and reinforcing our special teams’ coverage. Worilds can be that type of linebacker. There is no pressure on Worilds either. If Harrison/Woodley gets hurt Timmons steps in and Foote plays for Timmons. The most he may be asked is to do spot relief pass rushing and that’s a maybe. Worilds can develop into the stellar linebacker that the Steelers demand. PS: Jason…he moves Worlds.

3.Emmanuel Sanders WR SMU
Grade: 85
I like the pick. Sanders is a playmaker who will help the transition to a non Santonio Holmes offense. The only reason for the low grade is that this is really a pick for next year’s draft. With Ward, Wallace, Randle El, Sweed, and Battle the receiver corps is a little crowded. However, a year in Arians system will make Sanders more than ready to take over when one of these receivers leaves. It is a very far reaching pick, but a good one for the Steelers.

4.Thaddeus Gibson OLB/DE Ohio State
Grade: 85
I had given Gibson a much lower rating, until I read the following article:
Why Thaddeus Gibson?
To summarize, Gibson looks to fit in perfectly as a 3-4 OLB. I was in the boat that put Gibson beside Gholston as a potential bust. However, after reading this article I was prompted to do some research on my own. I am sad to say I totally missed his combine stats, they were most impressive. His game tape shows a lot of upside. He knows how to drop into coverage, get off his block and put pressure on a QB quick. However, he is not the greatest tackler in pursuit. Some of the more agile Qbs were able to get away from him. However, where better to learn how to take down a Qb then Pittsburgh? Gibson will be a solid player for the Steelers. I would mark him at 90, but by drafting Gibson we hurt depth at safety and nose tackle.

5.Chris Scott OT Tennessee
Grade: 85
I love seeing an offensive tackle drafted. Even if Scott projects to the right side, he is a welcome addition to a team with lackluster blockers. The big knock against Scott is his recovery against good pass rushers, but that can be taught. Most of the time Scott wins his battle in the trenches and that alone gives him a high grade in my book.

6.Bryant Mcfadden CB Florida State
Grade: 100
Wait…didn’t we do this already? I agreed with the decision of letting McFadden leave via free agency. That was on the understanding that William Gay was ready to be a starting corner…that was maybe a mistake. Gay is solid, but more suited for the nickelback position. McFadden is a solid corner who knows our system. Getting McFadden, who as a rookie stood up to both Reggie Wayne and Marvin Harrison on back to back plays in the playoffs, for a 5th round pick, was a steal. We needed a corner and got a solid, underrated corner.

7.Crezdon Butler CB Clemson
Grade: 70
Butler is a speedy corner. He is good in coverage and has nice ball skills. However, he has a lot to learn about being an NFL corner and will not beat out Ike Taylor, McFadden, Gay, or Burnett/Lewis. However as Gay and Ike may be gone pretty soon, the pick is another future pick and so I like it enough to give it a 70. Plus, he would be a Steeler corner that could catch…that gave him a bonus few points.

8.Stevenson Sylvester LB Utah
Grade: 60
Ok, this was a little ridiculous. A third linebacker? He is not a pass rusher either. Sylvester will be a solid special teamer, but the only chance he has to get on the field in any other capacity is as an eventual replacement for Farrior. However, when that sad day comes, I imagine someone else will be in line. I am not knocking Sylvester’s talent. He a great thumper and is instinctive as all get out. If he does become a replacement to Farrior, then I owe him my sincere apologies, but until then…it will be my opinion that this pick should have been a safety.

9.Jonathan Dwyer RB Georgia Tech
Grade: 95
Phenomenal draft day steal. Dwyer was initially valued at a second round pick. However he fell to us in the sixth! I cannot wait to see him make all of those teams that passed on him pay. He is a powerful runner that easily breaks tackles and is surprisingly quick. He reminds me of Jonathan Stewart, and readers of this blog…all four of you…will know I wanted the Steelers to get him bad. Dwyer will not only help spell Mendenhall, but give us a bruiser who can push the ball in the red zone and end games ala Jerome Bettis. Great pick!

10.Antonio Brown WR Central Michigan
Grade: 65
Not a thrilling pick. He definitely fits the mold that Steelers like to draft as far as wide receivers go. He is a short, speedy playmaker. We have three of those on our team already…to think this could have been Myron Rolle…yet another pick that should have been a safety.

11.Doug Worthington DT Ohio State
Grade: 70
He has nice strength and decent speed. He will probably be a practice squad body to be activated if Aaron Smith goes down again. Not bad value with a 7th round pick though.

12.Byron Leftwich QB Marshall
Grade: 90
Many people, when grading our draft, forget we gave up a 7th for Leftwich. A former first round QB with a solid arm and success in our system is a welcome sight. I have a great deal of faith in Dennis Dixon’s ability to get us through Ben’s suspension, but given the high risk of injury in the NFL, I am much more comfortable having Leftwich hanging around. Especially given that the two games Leftwich stepped in for an injured Ben, we won.

Final Grade: 83

Overall this was a nice draft. It addressed the needs along the offensive line, brought some promising youth/depth to our pass rush, upgraded our special teams coverage, and in Bryant McFadden, solved our cornerback dilemma. However, it also ignored establishing promising depth at safety and at the nose tackle. One of the major reasons our secondary was victimized was poor safety coverage. If Polamalu is healthy, this is really a moot point, but if he gets hurt, either Ryan Mundy or Will Allen will be starting. I hope we at least entertain bringing back Deshea Townsend as a safety for depth. The lack of a safety and drafting for the advanced future made this a B draft, but overall the Steelers got very promising players who should help Pittsburgh remain Championship competitive for a long time.

Final Draft of My Mock Draft

1.St. Louis Rams: Sam Bradford
Respect to Waltersfootball for saying from the start that the Rams should take a QB with the first overall. ST. Louis has Adam Carriker and Chris Long, although Suh looks legendary, why draft another dlineman and crowd one position area? The main reason I think the Rams should pick Bradford 1st overall relates to money. Who wants to dish out at least $40 million guaranteed on a DT? Barring a trade with the Redskins, the Rams are going to be forced to be big spenders and it seems only proper that you spend that much cash on a QB. The Rams have a decent line and a beast of a running back, but no receivers or tight ends. Look for the Rams to add some tight end or receiver in free agency/draft and, by drafting Bradford, repair an offense that was once “The Greatest Show on Turf!”

2.Detroit Lions: Ndamukong Suh DT Nebraska
Previous Pick: Russell Okung OT Oklahoma State
I still think the Lions would be best served by drafting Okung, but all in all drafting Suh is not a mistake. He is a force to be reckoned with and probably should have won the Hiesman. Suh will instantly improve the Detroit defense and add a playmaker on a defense that lacks one. Suh is a solid pick for Detroit.

3.Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Gerald McCoy DT Oklahoma
Thank you Lions for making this pick easier. McCoy is a much better fit in the Tampa Two defense that Morris runs. I go with McCoy here and Tampa Bay hopes they can bolster a defense that will need to win games this season.

4.Washington Redskins: Trent Williams OT Oklahoma
Arguments will be made that Clausen is a perfect fit for Shanahan’s offense. They are probably right, but that doesn’t mean anything when the Skins have no left tackle! Any QB will get destroyed behind a line with no LT. The Skins and a Shanahan offense depend on a good offensive line. Williams who is the best tackle in this draft, will go a long way towards helping the next Redskins QB come into a safe situation. Beefing up the oline will also help Portis/Johnson/Parker establish the Shanahan running back factory.

5.Kansas City Chiefs: Brian Bulaga OT Iowa
In drafting Tyson Jackson last year, Chiefs GM Scott Pioli proved that he will draft for position over value. Thus, I have no problem having Bulaga go to the Chiefs. Eric Berry would be the best pick for them, but Williams will fill the need for a left tackle and put Branden Albert back in his natural left guard spot.

6.Seattle Seahawks: Russell Okung OT Oklahoma State
Previous Pick: Ndamukong Suh DT Nebraska
Even if Clausen is available here, I don’t know that the Seahawks draft him. The odd trade and large contract Charlie Whitehurst received seems to say that he is the QB of the future. Now, the Seahawks have a decision: do they draft Suh or Berry. Berry fills a major need in the Seahawks secondary, but a need that could be filled later in the draft. The biggest concern for Seattle should be protecting whatever QB starts. Okung could start day one at any position of the oline and immediately bolster whatever offense that Pete Carroll has in mind.

7.Cleveland Browns: Eric Berry S Tennessee
I know that safeties drafted this high generally have a bad track record, but I do not think that will happen to Eric Berry. Berry was an accomplished safety with 168 tackles, 3 sacks, 3 touchdowns two forced fumbles, 12 interceptions, 10 deflected passes, and was only 15 yards from breaking the NCAA interception yardage record BEFORE he entered a pro style Monte Kiffin offense. Berry flourished on the UT defense and in my opinion is the best player in this draft. If he has the guts to go up against Tim Tebow, he’ll have the guts to go up against an actual quarterback like Ben Roethlisberger. In a division with a pass-happy Steelers and newcomers Anquan Boldin and Antonio Bryant, the Browns need to seriously bolster their secondary. Berry is a playmaker, runstopper, and should be a no-brainer for Cleveland…they’ll probably trade down.

8.Oakland Raiders: Mike Iupati G Idaho
Previous Pick: Bruce Campbell OT Maryland
Many would say OT is a pressing need for Oakland, and they would be right. Oakland has drafted three offensive players in the first round in as many years. They need to bolster the offensive line in order to do get the most out of these picks. The rumor mill has been going full force that the Raiders will draft Iupati. He is a mauler, which if you review Al Davis’ draft history, is the exact type of lineman Davis likes to draft. Iupati could even make the transition to guard if necessary, but we will see, Davis might draft a kicker who knows!

9.Buffalo Bills: Jimmy Clausen QB Notre Dame
This works out great for Buffalo. I am recently very impressed with Jimmy Clausen as an NFL QB. I watched a bunch of game play from this past year and Clausen had gotten rid of the bad decision making that plagued his first two years. Clausen is quick and plays very well in play action. He also is insanely accurate. As far as arm strength. I watched a highlight reel and Clausen threw from the 4 yard line to the 50 yard line. He also threw from ND’s own 44 to about three deep in the endzone. That is a 46 yard pass and a 59 yard pass, both of which were caught. Clausen has the mobility, arm strength, and meticulous accuracy. Clausen could be the long awaited answer to Buffalo’s offensive woes.

10.Jacksonville Jaguars: Earl Thomas S Texas
Previous Pick: Joe Haden CB Florida
Drafting a DE would still be a smart move even though the Jags have Aaron Kampman and Derrick Harvey. However, a relief pass rusher could easily be found in round three. The Jags would be best served letting a team trade up to grab Haden/Spiller/McClain (cough…Pittsburgh get Haden…cough). However, if they are stuck with this pick, the Jags should probably draft Thomas (even though he may be available at a lower pick). The offense made great strides last season, but the defense suffered the wrath of Peyton Manning and Matt Schuab. Drafting Thomas would not only help against these stacked division foes, but his fearless determination to stop the running game will help against Chris Johnson, giving the Jacksonville defense a much needed upgrade.

11.Denver Broncos: Dez Bryant WR Oklahoma State
Previous Pick: Rolando McClain ILB Alabama
The signing of Jamal Williams negates the need for a NT, but it is important to remember that Jamal got hurt week one and was lost for the year. Trading Brandon Marshall immediately leaves a void of 100 plus catches. Kyle Orton also became dependent on Marshall. The Broncos need to draft a number one receiver and that guy is Dex Bryant, regardless of “questionable” behavior.

12.Miami Dolphins: Dan Williams DT Tennessee
The Signing of Dansby negates the need for an ILB, but the Dolphins still have needs along the front seven. They have a tough choice, convert Jason Pierre Paul to OLB and upgrade their pass rush or draft Dan Williams and solidify their entire defensive front. The NT is desperately important to the 3-4 and as such I think the Dolphins nab Williams and count on a pass rusher in the second round.

13.San Francisco 49ers: Joe Haden CB Florida
Previous Pick: Anthony Davis OT Rutgers
Joe Haden’s fall has given the 49ers a gift. They desperately need corner depth for the present and future. This pick solidifies the 49ers secondary and gives them a phenomenal playmaker.

14.Seattle Seahawks: CJ Spiller RB Clemson
Even though the Seahawks have obvious needs at tackle and in their secondary, I think they go with Spiller here. The Seattle offense has no homerun hitter on roster and this would definitely give them the boost that they need to become a dynamic offense. Thomas/Mays is a possibility, but with their stock falling I think Seattle goes for broke. It could be possible Spiller gets grabbed by someone trading up ahead of Seattle, but for now I have Spiller falling here.

15.New York Giants: Rolando McClain ILB Alabama
Previous Pick: Jason Pierre Paul DE South Florida
The Giants are a team that does not need much. Hence I could easily see them trading up to get a player they really want like Spiller or McClain earlier. Thankfully for the Giants need met talent and they get a steal for a dominant middle linebacker.

16.Tennessee Titans: Derrick Morgan DE Georgia Tech
Tennessee’s most obvious need entering the 2010 draft is a defensive end. If the Titans defense is going to have any hope of generating a pass rush, they had best draft the best DE available. That being said, Morgan is arguably the best DE in this draft and so need meets top of the line value.

17.San Francisco 49ers: Anthony Davis OT Rutgers
Previous Pick: Earl Thomas FS Texas
Anthony Davis has fallen in value this off season, but I do not se him falling past the 49ers here. San Fran has a void at right tackle that desperately needs to be filled. Drafting Davis would not only shore up the offensive line, but it would protect Alex Smith long enough for him to get Vernon Davis and Michael Crabtree in the game. The 49ers playoff hopes, like it or not, reside on Alex Smith’s arm and as such the 49ers need to keep him standing.

18.Pittsburgh Steelers: Maurkice Pouncey C Florida
Many say that Pouncey is a better center prospect than Alex Mack and Nick Mangold. Tomlin and Head of Operations Colbert were down at Florida’s Pro Day and were reportedly impressed with Pouncey. With Hartiwg only having one year left on his contract, a gaping hole at RG, and a Franchise QB who has gotten sacked at least 40 times a year since Hartings retired, the need for interior lineman/center of the future is apparent. Pouncey spent three years protecting Tim Tebow and establishing the Florida run game. He is used to snapping the shotgun. Taking on nosetackles, and working against complicated defenses. He also is extensively familiar with the concept and implementation of the moving pocket, something every lineman Pittsburgh has should be familiar with given Roethlisberger’s penchant for extending the play. Although corner is also a major need, unless Haden falls and we trade up, I have to believe we make this pick. Kyle Wilson would be nice, but his skills are not that much ahead of some of the second round prospects. Also, we draft a third round and fifth round corner last year. Finally, I still have faith in William Gay. If Polamalu returns and is healthy, we will see the William Gay that helped establish Pittsburgh’s #1 defense. The drop off between Pouncey and the other centers in this draft is considerable. Thus, we add Pouncey, hopefully securing the interior of the line, and thus we add another center in the proud tradition of Steeler centers.

19.Atlanta Falcons: Jason Pierre Paul DE South Florida
Previous Pick: Brandon Graham DE Michigan
It is no secret that the Falcons need a linebacker and an upgrade in their pass rush. Witherspoon would meet the first need, but so would Navarro Bowman, Sean Lee, and countless other linebackers that could be gained later in the draft. However, Paul’s slide can provide great value for the Falcons. Paul could probably also play like Orakpo and occasionally take some downs as a linebacker. His versatility is what will lead the Falcons to draft him.

20.Houston Texans: Kyle Wilson CB Boise State
Spiller would have been nice, but now the Texans must be realistic. They are in a division that had Peyton Manning, David Garrard, and Vince Young…although not all are menacing, all did get voted to the Pro Bowl. Dunta Robinson finally left the Texans and he left them with a gaping hole in their secondary. They need to draft Wilson to try and stem Peyton Manning and maybe gain a playoff berth.

21.Cincinnati Bengals: Taylor Mays S USC
It is no secret that Marvin Lewis loves USC players. With the Ben Roethlisberger hoping to get some protection, Anquan Boldin and Donte Stallworth coming to town, and the Browns having a trick up their sleeve on draft day, the Bengals need to upgrade their pass coverage. If they add the freakish athlete Taylor Mays, they will almost have a complete USC playset, but more importantly, they will have a major upgrade in an already dominating secondary.

22.New England Patriots: DT/DE Jared Odrick Penn State
While tight end is a considerable need considering Ben Watson’s departure and Wes Welker’s injury, the hole at DE on their defense is greater. The loss of Seymour and Jarvis Green leaves the Patriots depth somewhat circumspect. Crumpler is a suitable stopgap at TE, thus I have the Pats drafting Odrick and helping shore up their front seven. Kindle is a possibility along with the ever sliding Dez Bryant.

23.Green Bay Packers: Charles Brown OT USC
Previous Pick: Mike Iupati G Idaho
Do you sit a first round pick behind him beside one of the leagues (formerly) best tackle duos, Chad Clifton and Mark Taucher. These two, although resigned, carry huge injury histories and should not be counted on for every game. Thus the need for a tackle is still ever present and is amplified by Detorit drafting Suh and Julius Peppers going to the Bears. Considering these two are over 30, picking Brown would give them tremendous upside at tackle and quite frankly would be a steal at 23rd overall. Brown provides insurance, a future, and tremendous value…what more could you ask for?

24.Philadelphia Eagles: Everson Griffen DE USC
Previous Pick: Sean Witherspoon OLB Missouri
In the wake of the Jamal Jackson injury and the departure of Shawn Andrews, if Iupati or Pouncey were to fall, I could easily see Reid pulling the trigger on them. However, as they are both gone, the Eagles must turn to their next need which is at linebacker. However, is this good value. Witherspoon is a good player, but I do not have him marked this high given the talent that can be found later in the draft. So Griffen is the pick. Griffen can step in and upgrade a previously fierce pass rush and help Philly immensely against Manning, Romo, and now Mcnabb.

25.Baltimore Ravens: Jermaine Gresham TE Oklahoma
I think Baltimore is in a transition. We are about to witness the Ravens become an offensive team. The additions of Rice, Flacco, Grubbs, Oher, Boldin, and Stallworth over the years have made this inevitable. Although Todd Heap is a good TE, he is not getting younger. Thus the Ravens add another young offensive player and complete the transition to a fierce offense.

26.Arizona Cardinals: Brandon Graham DE/OLB Michigan
Previous Pick: Sergio Kindle DE/OLB Texas
The Cardinals have lots of holes to fill. This will probably be a rebuilding year for a team just two years removed from a Super Bowl run. The sad truth is though lots of those Super Bowl players are now gone. Boldin, Warner, Dansby, Rolle, Berry, and Okeafor, just to name a few, are gone. Even though the Cardinals signed Joey Porter, he is merely a stop gap, they should still consider drafting Graham or some linebacker/pass rusher to help fill the void in the linebacker corps. If Graham is a clone of Woodley, Pittsburgh West will be extremely happy with their pick.

27.Dallas Cowboys: Roger Saffold OT Indiana
Previous Pick: Charles Brown OT USC
Dallas appears to be a well rounded team. With that being the case the Cowboys can draft for luxury and depth. Their few areas of need are along the defensive line and now at left tackle since Flozell Adams was cut. Saffold is a major reach, but then again, I do not see the Cowboys staying at this pick. For the moment I have them drafting Saffold, but more than likely thaty will not happen.

28.San Diego Chargers: Ryan Matthews RB Fresno State
Previous Pick: Terrence Cody DT Alabama
With Sproiles, the Chargers need a compliment back. I was sure they would get one in free agency, but alas they did not. So, I have them drafting the Fresno State alum and bolstering an already stacked offense.

29.New York Jets: Sergio Kindle DE/OLB Texas
Previous Pick: Dez Bryant WR Oklahoma State
Now that the Jets have Santonio Holmes (tear), their need at wide receiver is extinct. That being said, they Jets will upgrade their front seven. Kindle has the best value here. Even though he would be competing with Jason Taylor, Vernon Gholston, and Thomas, Kindle offers phenomenal upside and will bolster an already fearsome defense

30.Minnesota Vikings: Terrence Cody DT Alabama
Previous Pick: Devin McCourty CB Rutgers
The signing of Lito Sheppard frees the Vikes to draft whatever they might want. With Pat Williams near retirement, I think the Vikes should invest in the line eater that is Mount Cody. If, as some say Clausen falls here, I cannot see the Vikes passing on him.

31.Indianapolis Colts: Brian Price DT UCLA
An offensive lineman would be nice, but I do not think one has great value at this pick. Hence, I have the Colts grabbing Price. He will help stop the run and free up Freeney/Mathis to assault the QB. The pass rush is the strength of the Colts defense and as such any pick that bolsters it, will improve the entire defense.

32.New Orleans Saints: Sean Witherspoon OLB Missouri
Previous Pick: Everson Griffen DE USC
Linebacker is by far the greatest need on this football team. Witherspoon is widely hailed as the best 4-3 OLB in this draft. Thus, the Super Bowl champs get their missing link with great value.

My Favorite Steeler

Dear Rooney Family,

This is a request urging you not to trade QB Ben Roethlisberger. I am fully aware of his multiple transgressions. I am also aware of the shame that these transgressions have brought to the Pittsburgh Steelers. These acts are regrettable and should not be tolerated by a franchise with an image as impeccable as the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, despite these issues, I implore you to not trade away Ben Roethlisberger.

I come from a long line of proud Pittsburgh Steeler fans. My grandfather and uncle watched the Immaculate Reception from their basement and when it happened, they ran out in the cold snow and celebrated into the night. They both fondly recounted these memories and many other Steeler memories to me in my youth. Even though I watched and cheered on Kordell Stewart and Jerome Bettis I never felt an emotional connection to the Steelers enough to call them “MY Team”, that is until Ben Roethlisberger came on the scene.

Enter Ben Roethlisberger, a tall QB whose play is clumsy, yet artful; lucky, yet masterful. Roethlisberger played a never give up style, many would call it backyard, of football that I immediately respected. He got to the AFC Championship in his rookie year and renewed my hopes for Super Bowl glory. The next year, he did something for which I am forever grateful, he helped the Steelers get to Super Bowl XL. Of the stories my grandfather and uncle would tell, the stories I was most envious over were the ones that involved my grandfather and uncle watching the Steelers win four Super Bowls. It was an experience and concept I could in no way comprehend or sympathize with, but was constantly reminded of when hearing of the proud history of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Ben gave us the chance to do just that. Without Ben, we don’t beat Indy and probably don’t beat Denver. Ben got us to the Super Bowl and when we won I was finally able to understand the joy that my grandfather and uncle had experienced four times during the 70’s.

I was grateful for much more than a Super Bowl win that year. Ben managed to bring Bill Cowher, Jerome Bettis, and Hines Ward a Super Bowl championship. Despite my lack of an emotional connection during the 90’s I always had respect for these two men. Cowher was essentially my Grandfather on a football field, so I admired him in much the same fashion that I admire my Grandfather. I owned a Bettis jersey, the first of the many Steeler jerseys I now own, including the 75th Anniversary Jersey for Ben. Ward’s jersey was my second, and is my default jersey for most games. If anyone has directly benefitted from Ben, it is Hines Ward. A master of the release and King of the middle, many of Ben’s play extensions have involved Ward getting open and making some fashion of circus catch. Their connection on field is one of the best that I have seen between a quarterback and wide receiver and I would hate to see it end. These three men won championships thanks to Ben’s ability and his attitude on the field.

Ben has provided much more for me between his two Super Bowls. Every year I have ever played fantasy football, I have drafted Ben. In the 2007 season, when he threw 32 touchdowns, I won my championship. That year also brought me my 2nd favorite Steeler game ever. Monday Night Against Baltimore Ben threw five touchdowns, clobbering the previous AFC North champion, and holders of a perennially tough defense, Ravens. My uncle made fun of me for starting Ben against Baltimore, but I was the one who got the last laugh. For this I am also grateful. I have stayed by Ben’s side despite ridicule I have receiver after the accident or after he has a bad game. However, after Super Bowl XLIII, my faith in Ben was nationally vindicated.

I actually went to Super Bowl XLIII. That was the greatest game I have ever seen and most definitely my favorite. Before the game I bought a shirt with Ben on it. In big writing on the front it said “Mr. 4th Quarter”. I was ecstatic and had a feeling Ben would live up to that title during the game I was about to watch. As everyone knows, Ben did not disappoint. That’s the thing about Ben. According to Wikipedia Ben has had 22 4th quarter/overtime comebacks. Each of those 22 games were ridiculously entertaining and keep people watching other close games. With Ben at QB, we can always win. He always finds a way to get things done. Whether it is dumping off to a halfback while getting pulled down by a defensive lineman, to victimizing a 5th string Green Bay corner, barely scratching Baltimore’s end zone, or dropping a pass over triple coverage into the corner of the end zone, Ben gets the Steelers the win. If, as Tomlin has stated on numerous occasions, Steeler Football is 60 Minutes, Ben Roethlisberger is the perfect quarterback to execute that game plan.

So, we come to a decision. As far as backlash from fans is concerned, all Ben has to do is get on the field and do what he does best…win. The great thing about Ben is that when the pressure is on, he elevates to the challenge. Well, this situation is about as strong a pressure cooker as I have ever seen. In this environment where Ben will have to be a model citizen and win to earn the trust of the fans and franchise, Ben will most certainly deliver. Ben will consider this situation his 4th quarter and will deliver on the franchise willing to give him a second chance. I could quote “Innocent until proven guilty”, but I feel the following quote is more pertinent: "To every person of good will, eager to work tirelessly in the building of a new civilization of love, I say once more: Offer forgiveness and receive peace!" –Pope John Paul II.

Give Ben a second chance and the rewards you receive will be great. The Steelers will continue to win and could make a run at yet another Super Bowl. Even if we do not, Ben’s play will bring in new fans and spawn new fond memories. I look forward to the day that I can tell my son, nephew, and grandsons about the great Ben Roethlisberger and how he made me a Steeler fan. Please do not trade Ben. You put your faith in him by giving him a massive contract and we won a Super Bowl. Give him one more show of faith. Keep him on the Steeler roster and let him prove himself. Who knows what might happen. So, formally, I request that you do not trade Ben Roethlisberger, my favorite Steeler.

Sincerely,
Pittsburgh’s Native Son

Second Draft of My Mock Draft

1.St. Louis Rams: Sam Bradford
Previous Pick: Ndamukong Suh DT Nebraska

Respect to Waltersfootball for saying from the start that the Rams should take a QB with the first overall. ST. Louis has Adam Carriker and Chris Long, although Suh looks legendary, why draft another dlineman and crowd one position area? The main reason I think the Rams should pick Bradford 1st overall relates to money. Who wants to dish out at least $40 million guaranteed on a DT? Barring a trade with the Redskins, the Rams are going to be forced to be big spenders and it seems only proper that you spend that much cash on a QB. The Rams have a decent line and a beast of a running back, but no receivers or tight ends. Look for the Rams to add some tight end or receiver in free agency/draft and, by drafting Bradford, repair an offense that was once “The Greatest Show on Turf!”

2.Detroit Lions: Russell Okung OT Oklahoma State
Previous Pick: Gerald McCoy DT Oklahoma

Suh would make a great deal of sense and would fit in with Detroit’s defense. However, Matt Stafford got knocked around like a piñata in his rookie season. Detroit needs to keep Stafford standing up if they are hoping to make use of their huge investment. Granted a LT is only one of many needs, but if Stafford gets knocked around and continually hurt, Detroit’s hopes to win are lost. It was on Stafford’s arm that Detroit beat Cleveland, but Stafford cannot play with an injured shoulder for his entire career. Drafting Okung would protect Stafford’s blindside and move Backus to guard. Thus Detroit would have a line somewhat worthy of its franchise QB.

3.Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Gerald McCoy DT Oklahoma
Previous Pick: Eric Berry S Tennessee
This is a tough one. Suh is the better player/prospect, but McCoy is a much better fit in the Tampa Two defense that Morris runs. I go with McCoy here and Tampa Bay hopes they can bolster a defense that will need to win games this season.

4.Washington Redskins: Trent Williams OT Oklahoma State
Previous Pick: Sam Bradford QB Oklahoma

The Skins now have Donovan Mcnabb and look a lot better on paper than they did just a few hours ago. That being said a Shanahan offense depends on a good offensive line. Williams, who some believe to be the best tackle in this draft, will go a long way towards protecting the new cannon in Shanahan's arsenal. Beefing up the oline will also help Portis/Johnson/Parker establish the Shanahan running back factory.

5.Kansas City Chiefs: Brian Bulaga OT Iowa
Previous Pick: Russell Okung OT Oklahoma State

In drafting Tyson Jackson last year, Chiefs GM Scott Pioli proved that he will draft for position over value. Thus, I have no problem having Bulaga go to the Chiefs. Eric Berry would be the best pick for them, but Williams will fill the need for a left tackle and put Branden Albert back in his natural left guard spot.

6.Seattle Seahawks: Ndamukong Suh DT Nebraska
Previous Pick: Jimmy Clausen QB Notre Dame

Even if Clausen is available here, I don’t see the Seahawks drafting him. The odd trade and large contract Charlie Whitehurst received seems to say that he is the QB of the future. Now, the Seahawks have a decision: do they draft Suh or Berry. Berry fills a major need in the Seahawks secondary, but a need that could be filled later in the draft. However, talent the likes of Suh’s at 6th overall is too tempting to pass up. Suh will help Laurence Jackson and Patrick Kerney generate some pass rush and beef up the entire defense. In a division that will be starting Leinart/Anderson, Smith/Carr, and ???/???? , a solid pass rush could give Seattle a nice ticket to the playoffs.

7.Cleveland Browns: Eric Berry S Tennessee
Previous Pick: Joe Haden CB Florida

I know that safeties drafted this high generally have a bad track record, but I do not think that will happen to Eric Berry. Berry was an accomplished safety with 168 tackles, 3 sacks, 3 touchdowns two forced fumbles, 12 interceptions, 10 deflected passes, and was only 15 yards from breaking the NCAA interception yardage record BEFORE he entered a pro style Monte Kiffin offense. Berry flourished on the UT defense and in my opinion is the best player in this draft. If he has the guts to go up against Tim Tebow, he’ll have the guts to go up against an actual quarterback like Ben Roethlisberger. In a division with a pass-happy Steelers and newcomers Anquan Boldin and Antonio Bryant, the Browns need to seriously bolster their secondary. Berry is a playmaker, runstopper, and should be a no-brainer for Cleveland…they’ll probably trade down.

8.Oakland Raiders: Bruce Campbell OT Maryland
Previous Pick: Anthony Davis OT Rutgers

Many would say OT is a pressing need for Oakland, and they would be right. Oakland has drafted three offensive players in the first round in as many years. They need to bolster the offensive line in order to do get the most out of these picks. That being said, Davis will draft the best athlete and that is Campbell…he is not the best tackle available by a long shot, but he is the best athlete.

9.Buffalo Bills: Jimmy Clausen QB Notre Dame
Previous Pick: Brian Bulaga OT Iowa

This works out great for Buffalo. I am recently very impressed with Jimmy Clausen as an NFL QB. I watched a bunch of game play from this past year and Clausen had gotten rid of the bad decision making that plagued his first two years. Clausen is quick and plays very well in play action. He also is insanely accurate. As far as arm strength. I watched a highlight reel and Clausen threw from the 4 yard line to the 50 yard line. He also threw from ND’s own 44 to about three deep in the endzone. That is a 46 yard pass and a 59 yard pass, both of which were caught. Clausen has the mobility, arm strength, and meticulous accuracy. Clausen could be the long awaited answer to Buffalo’s offensive woes.

10.Jacksonville Jaguars: Joe Haden CB Florida
Previous Pick: Derrick Morgan DE Georiga Tech

Drafting a DE would still be a smart move even though the Jags have Aaron Kampman, Derrick Harvey, and Quentin Groves. However, a relief pass rusher could easily be found in round three. The Jags would be best served letting a team trade up to grab Haden/Spiller/McClain (cough…Pittsburgh get Haden…cough). However, if they are stuck with this pick, the Jags need to draft Haden. The offense made great strides last season, but the defense suffered the wrath of Peyton Manning and Matt Schuab. Drafting Haden would not only help against these stacked division foes, but his fearless determination to stop the running game will help against Chris Johnson, giving the Jacksonville defense a much needed upgrade.

11.Denver Broncos: Rolando McClain ILB Alabama
Previous Pick: Dan Williams NT Tennessee

The signing of Jamal Williams negates the need for a NT, but it is important to remember that Jamal got hurt week one and was lost for the year. Even still the broncos would get better value from their pick drafting McClain. McClain could come in and start right away. He would make an immediate impact and help free Dumervil up to pass rush instead of constantly anticipating the running game. The move would be a great upgrade to Denver’s linebacking corp. It would also mean that Denver has a penchant for SEC players considering Moreno and Ayers last year…just a note I am making for future mock drafts.

12.Miami Dolphins: Dan Williams DT Tennessee
Previous Pick: Jason Pierre Paul DE South Florida

The Signing of Dansby negates the need for an ILB, but the Dolphins still have needs along the front seven. They have a tough choice, convert Jason Pierre Paul to OLB and upgrade their pass rush or draft Dan Williams and solidify their entire defensive front. The NT is desperately important to the 3-4 and as such I think the Dolphins nab Williams and count on a pass rusher in the second round.

13.San Francisco 49ers: Anthony Davis OT Rutgers
Previous Pick: Trent Williams OT Oklahoma State

Anthony Davis has fallen in value this off season, but I do not se him falling past the 49ers here. San Fran has a void at right tackle that desperately needs to be filled. Drafting Davis would not only shore up the offensive line, but it would protect Alex Smith long enough for him to get Vernon Davis and Michael Crabtree in the game. The 49ers playoff hopes, like it or not, reside on Alex Smith’s arm and as such the 49ers need to keep him standing.

14.Seattle Seahawks: CJ Spiller RB Clemson
Previous Pick: Taylor Mays S USC

Even though the Seahawks have obvious needs at tackle and in their secondary, I think they go with Spiller here. The Seattle offense has no homerun hitter on roster and this would definitely give them the boost that they need to become a dynamic offense. Thomas/Mays is a possibility, but with their stock falling I think Seattle goes for broke. It could be possible Spiller gets grabbed by someone trading up ahead of Seattle, but for now I have Spiller falling here.

15.New York Giants: Jason Pierre Paul DE South Florida
Previous Pick: Rolando McClain ILB Alabama

The Giants are a team that does not need much. Hence I could easily see them trading up to get a player they really want like Spiller or McClain. In the meantime, they draft Pierre Paul, who is a top ten talent and could probably be coached into a LB/rotational DE. Drafting Paul would solidify the Giants pass rush, give them an option at linebacker if needed, and help give them leverage/an excuse to trade away the unhappy Osi Umenorya

16.Tennessee Titans: Derrick Morgan DE Georgia Tech
Previous Pick: Carlos Dunlap DE Florida

Tennessee’s most obvious need entering the 2010 draft is a defensive end. If the Titans defense is going to have any hope of generating a pass rush, they had best draft the best DE available. That being said, Morgan is arguably the best DE in this draft and so need meets top of the line value.

17.San Francisco 49ers: Earl Thomas FS Texas

The 49ers need a boost in their secondary. Although Singeltary may like Mays more, I feel the 49ers draft Thomas in hopes that he is truly the better player. Thomas should go a long ways towards shoring up a secondary in desperate need of a game changing safety.

18.Pittsburgh Steelers: Maurkice Pouncey C Florida
Previous Pick: Mike Iupati G Idaho

Many say that Pouncey is a better center prospect than Alex Mack and Nick Mangold. Tomlin and Head of Operations Colbert were down at Florida’s Pro Day and were reportedly impressed with Pouncey. With Hartiwg only having one year left on his contract, a gaping hole at RG, and a Franchise QB who has gotten sacked at least 40 times a year since Hartings retired, the need for interior lineman/center of the future is apparent. Pouncey spent three years protecting Tim Tebow and establishing the Florida run game. He is used to snapping the shotgun. Taking on nosetackles, and working against complicated defenses. He also is extensively familiar with the concept and implementation of the moving pocket, something every lineman Pittsburgh has should be familiar with given Roethlisberger’s penchant for extending the play. Although corner is also a major need, unless Haden falls and we trade up, I have to believe we make this pick. Kyle Wilson would be nice, but his skills are not that much ahead of some of the second round prospects. Also, we draft a third round and fifth round corner last year. Finally, I still have faith in William Gay. If Polamalu returns and is healthy, we will see the William Gay that helped establish Pittsburgh’s #1 defense. The drop off between Pouncey and the other centers in this draft is considerable. Thus, we add Pouncey, hopefully securing the interior of the line, and thus we add another center in the proud tradition of Steeler centers.

19.Atlanta Falcons: Brandon Graham DE Michigan
Previous Pick: Sergio Kindle OLB Texas

It is no secret that the Falcons need a linebacker and an upgrade in their pass rush. Witherspoon would meet the first need, but so would Navarro Bowman, Sean Lee, and countless other linebackers that could be gained later in the draft. However, Graham, who had a phenomenal Senior Bowl, would be the high value pick. He would provide depth at DE and push active started Anderson and Abraham for snaps.

20.Houston Texans: Kyle Wilson CB Boise State
Previous Pick: CJ Spiller RB Clemson

Spiller would have been nice, but now the Texans must be realistic. They are in a division that had Peyton Manning, David Garrard, and Vince Young…although not all are menacing, all did get voted to the Pro Bowl. Dunta Robinson finally left the Texans and he left them with a gaping hole in their secondary. They need to draft Wilson to try and stem Peyton Manning and maybe gain a playoff berth.

21.Cincinnati Bengals: Taylor Mays S USC
Previous Pick: Dez Bryant WR Oklahoma State

It is no secret that Marvin Lewis loves USC players. With the Ben Roethlisberger hoping to get some protection, Anquan Boldin and Donte Stallworth coming to town, and the Browns having a trick up their sleeve on draft day, the Bengals need to upgrade their pass coverage. If they add the freakish athlete Taylor Mays, they will almost have a complete USC playset, but more importantly, they will have a major upgrade in an already dominating secondary.

22.New England Patriots: DT/DE Jared Odrick Penn State
Previous Pick: Brandon Spikes ILB Florida
While tight end is a considerable need considering Ben Watson’s departure and Wes Welker’s injury, the hole at DE on their defense is greater. The loss of Seymour and Jarvis Green leaves the Patriots depth somewhat circumspect. Crumpler is a suitable stopgap at TE, thus I have the Pats drafting Odrick and helping shore up their front seven. Kindle is a possibility along with the ever sliding Dez Bryant.

23.Green Bay Packers: Mike Iupati G Idaho
Previous Pick: Bruce Campbell OT Maryland

Do you sit a first round pick behind one of the leagues (formerly) best tackle duos, Chad Clifton and Mark Taucher. These two, although resigned, carry huge injury histories and should not be counted on for every game. Thus the need for a tackle is still ever present. Considering these two are over 30, picking Iupati would give them tremendous upside at tackle and quite frankly would be a steal at 23rd overall. Also, the Packers seem to be displeased with College, so Iupati could push to start at guard for the Pack anyway. Iupati provides insurance, a future, and tremendous value…what more could you ask for?

24.Philadelphia Eagles: Sean Witherspoon OLB Missouri

In the wake of the Jamal Jackson injury and the departure of Shawn Andrews, if Iupati or Pouncey were to fall, I could easily see Reid pulling the trigger on them. However, as they are both gone, the Eagles must turn to their next need which is at linebacker. Witherspoon is a dominant tackler and a leader on the field that the Eagles could definitely use. However, depending on what trades the Eagles make before/on Draft Day, their needs could change drastically.

25.Baltimore Ravens: Jermaine Gresham TE Oklahoma
Previous Pick: Kyle Wilson CB Boise State

I think Baltimore is in a transition. We are about to witness the Ravens become an offensive team. The additions of Rice, Flacco, Grubbs, Oher, Boldin, and Stallworth over the years have made this inevitable. Although Todd Heap is a good TE, he is not getting younger. Thus the Ravens add another young offensive player and complete the transition to a fierce offense.

26.Arizona Cardinals: Sergio Kindle OLB Texas
Previous Pick: Brandon Graham DE/OLB Michigan

The Cardinals have lots of holes to fill. This will probably be a rebuilding year for a team just two years removed from a Super Bowl run. The sad truth is though lots of those Super Bowl players are now gone. Boldin, Warner, Dansby, Rolle, Berry, and Okeafor, just to name a few, are gone. Even though the Cardinals signed Joey Porter, he is merely a stop gap. They should still consider drafting Kindle or some linebacker/pass rusher to help fill the void in the linebacker corps.

27.Dallas Cowboys: Charles Brown OT USC

Dallas appears to be a well rounded team. With that being the case the Cowboys can draft for luxury and depth. Their few areas of need ar along the defensive line and now at left tackle since Flozell Adams was cut. Mount Cody would make sense as would
the falling Dez Bryant, but for the moment I have them drafting Brown.

28.San Diego Chargers: Terrence Cody DT Alabama

Although a running back would be nice, I think the Chargers have to recognize a gaping hole at NT. I watched a lot of Terrence Cody tape, and although his weight and ethic are a concern, Mount Cody eats offensive lines. If San Diego wants to shore up their defense, Cody is their man.

29.New York Jets: Dez Bryant WR Oklahoma State
Previous Pick: Jared Odrick DE/DT Penn State

Oh how the mighty have fallen. Even though the Jets refute any need they have for a WR, I would find it hard to believe that they would pass on talent like Bryant. I do not think anyone has Bryant falling this far, but character guys and wide receivers always fall on draft day. As Bryant is both of those and had a bad pro day, I have no problem watching him fall neatly into the Jets lap.

30.Minnesota Vikings: Devin McCourty CB Rutgers
Previous Pick: Brian Price DT UCLA

With Winfield battling an injury bug and Griffin out for much of the next season, the need at corner is glaring for Minnesota. Although a DT of the future would be nice, the Vikes should give a serious look to Devin McCourty, who is widely regarded as the third best corner in the draft.

31.Indianapolis Colts: Brian Price DT UCLA
Previous Pick: Navarro Bowman OLB Penn State

An offensive lineman would be nice, but I do not think one has great value at this pick. Hence, I have the Colts grabbing Price. He will help stop the run and free up Freeney/Mathis to assault the QB. The pass rush is the strength of the Colts defense and as such any pick that bolsters it, will improve the entire defense.

32.New Orleans Saints: Everson Griffen DE USC

Linebacker is by far the greatest need on this football team. However, there is not a linebacker with solid value available at this spot. The Saints can bide their time and probably draft Sean Lee/Bowman at the end of the 2nd or even 3rd round. Griffen has great value at this pick, especially with Charles Grant’s approaching march out of New Orleans.

Quarterback Solutions

One the eve of free agency opening I would like to explore what I envision are ideal Quarterback scenarios this offseason. Many teams have needs at QB, and if they would go along what I propose, I think everybody would be reasonably happy with their QB situations…at least until next offseason.

1. Donovan Mcnabb in Cleveland

Although Cleveland would be appear to be a downgrade for Mcnabb, the change in scenery would be immeasurably beneficial. Mcnabb has spent his whole career in Philly moving from one end of the opinion spectrum to another. One day he can do no wrong, the next he’s being benched. Mcnabb has gone from king to devil back to king again way too many times for one person to endure. I think Mcnabb would find solace in Cleveland. Mcnabb wins games and if he can do that in Cleveland than he will be hailed as a god and finally appreciated.
Leaving the psychological behind, Mcnabb would be effective in Cleveland. Harrison/Cribbs could provide the Westbrook element he is used to. AFC North defenses are just as imposing as NFC East defenses, but Cleveland has a line capable of protecting Mcnabb. As far as receivers are concerned…Mcnabb has been working with a rag tag group for most of his career. With the exception of TO and Desean Jackson, Mcnabb has never had a solid #1 wideout and does not need one to have success. Mcnabb could be the savior for the Cleveland Browns and who knows, maybe bring Cleveland a long awaited playoff berth.

2. Brady Quinn in Buffalo

So if Mcnabb is in Cleveland, where is Brady Quinn? I think he would fit in very well in Buffalo. Buffalo needs a young QB, but will unlikely be able to grab one in the first round (unless they want to trade a bundle). However, maybe some three team trade between Buffalo-Philly-Cleveland could be worked out. I think Quinn can be a good QB in this league. The guy has played in 12 games and Holmgrem/Mangini are ready to toss him to the side. It’s not his fault that Mangini traded away Braylon Edwards, Kellen Winslow, and fired Donte Stallworth. For a team with one offensive weapon (Cribbs), Quinn did not do a bad job. Zero receivers and a barely recognizable running game is not a good environment for any QB. Quinn lived the dream of a Browns fan. He played quarterback and beat the Steelers. Now it’s time to have a legitimate NFL career.
A Buffalo QB needs to have a strong arm for those bad weather games, and Quinn has arm strength to spare. He just lacks deep accuracy which is easy enough to fix if Chan Gailey is the offensive guru he claims to be. Best of all, Quinn will come fairly cheap (cheaper than trading up in the draft to get Bradford/Clausen). So I say to Buffalo…go for it. Pluck Quinn from the Browns and make them pay for never giving the young QB a fair chance….you may want to get him another wideout to help out Lee Evans though…just a thought.

3. Kevin Kolb in Philadelphia

With Mcnabb out the door, this becomes obvious. I put Mcnabb in Cleveland for his sake (getting him out of an ungrateful Philadelphia). It is not a reflection on Mcnabb’s ability that I send him out the door. That being said, Philly would never entertain this idea if Kolb had not demonstrated his ability to run the highpowered Philly offense. With Kolb at the helm, armed by picks gained from trading two of their QBs the Eagles should be just fine.

4. Michael Vick in Carolina

Carolina desperately needs a QB of the future, but they have no first round pick. They also lost out on potentially trading Julius Peppers. Thus, the Panthers will not be able to go after one of the top QB prospects (once again unless they give up a bundle). That being said, Carolina still needs a QB. Vick would come cheap (third-fourth round pick) and have a significant impact on Carolina’s offense. He still seems to have his arm strength. Carolina fans might not remember what arm strength is. It is that thing that Steve Smith stays awake at night dreaming about. Also, Vick freezes linebackers. They have to stand still and wait for him to move before they can react. Hence draw and fake play actions allow blockers to nail linebackers before they can react. Thus, running lanes become wide open. The two running backs in Carolina do not need much of an opening to make a killing. Carolina’s offense would benefit considerably from Vick’s services.

5. Sam Bradford in St. Louis

Spoiler alert: I have changed my 1st overall pick. (Respect to Waltersfootball for saying from the start that the Rams should take a QB with the first overall) As I will stipulate, McCoy is a good QB and would be an asset to the Rams. However, why risk missing out on a QB (A MAJOR NEED!). St. Louis has Adam Carriker and Chris Long, although Suh looks legendary, why draft another dlineman and crowd one position area? The main reason I think the Rams should pick Bradford 1st overall relates to money. Who wants to dish out at least $40 million guaranteed on a DT? The Rams are going to be forced to be big spenders and it seems only proper that you spend that much cash on a QB. The Rams have a decent line (although pieces of it may be lost in the offseason). They have a beast of a running back, but no receivers or tight ends. Look for the Rams to add some tight end or receiver in free agency and, by drafting Bradford, repair an offense that was once The Greatest Show on Turf!”

6. Jimmy Clausen in Seattle
Like I said in my mock, Pete Carroll attempted to recruit Jimmy Clausen. Seattle needs a QB and Clausen would be a solid pick up for Carroll’s new regime. Seattle also has two first round picks so why not get a much needed QB of the future?

7. Jason Campbell in Washington
Mike Shanahan will be the Redskins coach for a while. I do not think there is pressure for him to draft a new QB right now. Let Shanahan draft Okung with the 4th overall and reinforce a battered and aging line. After one offseason with Shanahan the offense will be a much safer place for a young QB. Next year the QB’s are more along Shanahan’s style anyway. Strong armed Jake Locker and Ryan Mallet will be in the draft and Shanahan can lock in one of them for his franchise QB.

8. Colt McCoy in Denver

Why McCoy in Denver…are they not happy with Kyle Orton? I’m sure they are happy with him when Brandon Marshall carries him. However, with Marshall practically out the door, I think the Broncos faith will shake and they will go after a QB. Essentially, Denver will not be able to get Bradford and Clausen (ONCE AGAIN unless they are willing to give up a bundle). However, it is not unreasonable to believe that with all the picks the Broncos got for trading away Cutler, there is not room for them to move back into the late first round and jump any team who thought they could get McCoy in the second round. McCoy’s talent cannot be disputed (as far as I am concerned). In four years he threw 112 touchdowns and rushed for 20! Colt McCoy’s value fell considerably when he got hurt at the National Championship. He did not help himself by sitting out at the combine either. However, had he come out last year, many thought Denver would have picked him up…well here is a new offseason and again I want to start the McCoy and Denver conversations.

9. Matt Leinart in Arizona
Many people believe Leinart does not have the ability to lead the Cardinal offense…while I am not among them, I have my doubts. However, no QB will come into a cushier job in the NFL. With the emergence of Beanie Wells the Cardinals have a running game, something Leinart would have liked to have had his first time out. Also, Leinart has had time to learn Wisenhunt’s system and will be ready. His start against the Titans was not awe inspiring, but they would have won had the Cardinals known how to stop Vince Young. Leinart has to grow up though and should not be given the keys to the franchise without a high end backup behind him. Count on the Cardinals adding a Chad Pennington, David Carr (My personal favorite for the job), Derek Anderson veteran QB to guide Leinart, and maybe take over if he fails

10. Brett Favre in Minnesota

A solid line, a godlike running back who will definitely work on improving his ball control skills, and a young, dynamic receiver corps. Oh! You’ll also be paid $10 million and have a shot at the Super Bowl! Who would turn that down?

11. Alex Smith in San Francisco

Alex Smith played well in his first serious NFL season. With the further development of Vernon Davis and Michael Crabtree, the 49ers should have a solid passing attack. I do not think you need to ruin a good thing by bringing in a new QB.

12. Bruce Gradowski in Oakland

Sometimes I feel bad for players drafted by Al Davis. They have so much promise, but are slowly victimized by being on a horrible team and eventually lose their love of the game. I fear this is what is happening to 1st overall pick Jamarcus Russell. I said they should draft Calvin Johnson, but oh well that’s not the point of this. Gradowski demolished Pittsburgh’s secondary and led multiple 4th quarter comeback drives…something Brett Favre did not do. If the Raiders have found something that works, don’t spoil it, but Al Davis will do what Al Davis wants…regardless of the harm it does to his franchise.

13. Tim Tebow in New England

I mentioned this in my mock draft…and then I saw ESPN put on their website a photoshopped pic of Tebow in a Patriots jersey. Brady is fine, but New England needs a high end second string QB to back him up. I’m not saying this is Tebow, but many think of him that way. Tebow needs a few years behind a veteran before he can be successful in this league. Putting aside my UGA bias, Tebow does have a strong arm and a devotion to football that could take him far in this league…with the right team. That team would be the Patriots. Tebow could also work his way onto the field as a wildcat/short yardage QB (I have to imagine Belichick gets tired of getting owned by that formation). Putting my UGA/Steelers bias back on, Tebow going to the Patriots could enable me to carry my hatred for the Patriots onward even after Tom Brady has left. So it’s a win/win for all parties…

Where Does LT Belong

Today LaDanian Tomlinson’s tenure in San Diego came to a close. I always hate to see legendary players forced to go to another team, but that is how this business works. It is especially disheartening to know that LT, who gave the Chargers and their fans so much, had his last carry as a Charger met with boos…It’s a shame. Anyhow, San Diego’s loss is another team’s gain, but who could that be? In this article I will explore my ideas of potential landing spots for LT and in what capacity he would be most effective.

Many argue that the years are showing on LT and his tires are wearing. While that may be the case, I would not say that his decline in yardage was all his fault. Pro Bowl Center Nick Hardwick was gone most of the year and his absence hurt San Diego’s run blocking ability considerably. Also, Philip Rivers really came on this year and the Chargers switched gears to a passing team. LT also was hit with the injury bug early and most running backs are not nearly as effective as they can be when they are hurt. So, I would not say LT’s poor yardage was necessarily all his fault.

That being said, I do not necessarily think that you hand LT the keys to your franchise’s running game. I see parallels to LT’s situation to that of Jerome Bettis’ last years in Pittsburgh. For years Bettis was THE running back in Pittsburgh. As time wore on he became less effective as an every down back. However, as a third down back and particularly as a goaline/short yardage back….there was none better. Bettis provided a valuable situational role for Pittsburgh, while at the same time mentoring young Willie Parker. I remember watching a video of Bettis on the sideline telling Parker to stick to the middle and hit those lanes hard and fast. I see LT as a player who could fill that type of Bettis role. LT still had 12 touchdowns this year and most of them came in the goal line/red zone. LT could provide a considerable amount of guidance to any young running back while contributing as a Bettis type player. LT has a few years left and could make a big impact on the right team.

So the question becomes what team would LT make the largest impact on? One team I would like to see LT go to would be the Cleveland Browns. I am a big believer in history repeating itself and if Cleveland signs LT then they would be repeating it. Three years ago the Browns signed Jamal Lewis, a worn out elite who was believed to be done. Cleveland almost made the playoffs that year on Jamal Lewis’ back. LT could have a similar effect in Cleveland. Cleveland’s offensive line is the best part of that team. Cleveland appears to want a new QB and that new QB would benefit substantially having LT behind him. Also, LT is breaking records every game. That would get national attention and put people in the seats. LT could bring a lot of positive attention to a Cleveland team in desperate need of it.

Another team desperate for a solid running back…Detroit! With Kevin Smith’s week one status unknown, LT becomes a phenomenal option. If I was LT, I would not go to Detroit considering their oline and defense, but LT would bring a safety in the box and take one off of Calvin Johnson, who gets triple covered up and down the field. Detroit, although an unlikely spot, would benefit greatly from LT’s services.

LT says he wants to be a contender…well I have two darkhorse candidates that would be great landing spots for the future hall of famer. The first would be the Redskins. The Redskins had a great defense last year, but no offense. Clinton Portis is supposed to be coming back, but I am sure Shanahan would not mind bringing in LT and giving him Portis’ money…don’t forget that Shanahan dumped Portis once before. Shanahan has turned mediocre running backs into gods; imagine what he would be able to do with a running back of LT’s caliber. LT could provide veteran leadership to what is more than likely going to be a young offense. He would also take stress off of whoever Washington’s next QB will be. Washington’s offense could be renewed and could propel the Skins deep into the playoffs.

The other darkhorse contender….Pittsburgh! Although LTs price may be a bit high, if Tomlin really wants to commit to the power run, it would serve him well to bring on LT. Mendenhall has difficulty running in between the tackles. He always bounces out runs. It works, but it’s not power football and our line is not fast enough to support that type of running. However, LT could power run and mentor Mendenhall much in the way Bettis mentored Willie Parker. LT would fit in well with the Steelers, but his price would probably be higher than what the Rooneys are willing to pay.

There are plenty of other teams that could use LT’s services. I am just trying to point out places where he could have considerable impact that are not necessarily obvious. A reunion between Brees and Tomlinson is possible, but unlikely given Thomas’ Super Bowl performance (the guy did not know how to get tackled). Denver and the Patriots could definitely benefit from some red zone help. The Texans could use some veteran leadership, but seem opposed to adding any at running back. The point is, LT still has a lot in the tank and any team would be foolish to not entertain the idea of Tomlinson on their roster.

First Draft of my 2010 NFl Mock Draft

The offseason has begun and so I have decided to open it with the first draft on my mock draft. Pre-Combine mock drafts usually don’t hold water by April. Not only does value change dramatically over the season, but teams address many of their critical needs via free agency. So here is my mock. Enjoy it!

1. St Louis Rams: Ndamukong Suh DT Nebraska

There is considerable debate about this pick, not that that is new to the 1^st overall pick though. The QB situation in St. Louis is abysmal. The Rams have had their pick of QB’s for two years now and passed each time. They, arguably, have played it safeby picking Chris Long and Jason Smith. Here the Rams can pick any player they want and they still might pass on a QB. I can see the logic in drafting a QB with this pick, but for now I say they take Ndamukong and help solidify a defense lacking playmakers.

2. Detroit Lions: Gerald McCoy DT Oklahoma

Schwartz will want to solidify the lines in this draft. He can either draft McCoy here and solidify the dline, or draft Okung and gamble on Terrence Cody’s fall. I would draft Okung, but the Lions did not take my advice last year when they drafted Pettigrew so they will more than likely shore up the dline.

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Eric Berry S Tennessee

This pick is difficult to place. It could be Okung or could even be a DE. However, if you factor in the fact that Morris only kept his job because of his defense, Berry becomes the perfect choice. Morris still coaches under the Tampa Two Scheme. Berry played phenomenally in the Tampa Two under Monte Kiffin in Tennessee. Berry could start right away and make an immediate impact in a division with Drew Brees, Michael Turner, and the Williams/Stewart Hydra.

4. Washington Redskins: Sam Bradford QB Oklahoma

I think Jason Campbell is not that bad. I would be tempted to draft Okung and wait until next year for a QB of the future, but I think the Redskins want one in place now. Here is my problem. If they draft Bradford and put him behind a bad oline, he WILL get hurt just like Stafford last year. If the Redskins plan to draft Bradford, bench him for a while and let Campbell test the waters. It will be better for Bradford in the long run. Okung could be drafted, but I imagine the Shanahans will be able to attract some nice free agent upgrades along the oline.

5. Kansas City Chiefs: Russell Okung OT Oklahoma State

Last year I suggested Eugene Monroe. Now the Chiefs need to make good and attempt to protect their franchise QB.

6. Seattle Seahawks: Jimmy Clausen QB Notre Dame

Do people remember that USC tried very hard to recruit Jimmy Clausen. Carroll liked him a lot. With Seattle having two picks in the first round they can afford to draft a QB of the future, who will be able to learn behind former Favre backup and Super Bowl QB Matt Hasselbeck.

7. Cleveland Browns: Joe Haden CB Florida

Cleveland would have loved to have Eric Berry fall into their laps, but that is not meant to be. That being said, their pass defense still needs an upgrade, especially with the Ravens and Bengals looking to upgrade their pass attack. Haden is a potential shut down corner who would go a long way towards helping the beleaguered Browns defense.

8. Oakland Raiders: Anthony Davis OT Rutgers

This is not what the Raiders will pick. It makes too much sense to help support your previous three top ten offensive selections with a good offensive lineman. Al Davis will probably draft 6 foot 3 safety Taylor Mays. I have the Raiders doing this…but I am tired of trying to guess how Al Davis will continue to ruin the Raiders.

9. Buffalo Bills: Brian Buluga OT Iowa

Andy Levitre, Eric Wood, Richie Incognito, and Brian Buluga would make a nice run blocking line capable of helping out whomever the next QB in Buffalo ends up being. Dan Williams would be a nice pickup, but I think they will let Marcus Stroud try to play the nose tackle role in the Bills new 3-4.

10. Denver Broncos: Dan Williams NT Tennessee

The 3-4 needs big nose tackles that can clog up the middle allowing linebackers to make plays. There is no such player on the Broncos defense which is why I have them grabbing Dan Williams. Rolando McClain is tempting, but why draft a linebacker if he is constantly getting blocked?

11. Jacksonville Jaguars: Derrick Morgan DE Georiga Tech

Jacksonville had 14 sacks in 2009. Derrick Harvey and Quentin Groves are not quite cutting it in the pass rush. They could draft Brian Price, but I think this is a little early for him. So, the Jags hope to duplicate the success that the Redskins had with Orakpo. Morgan could probably easily make the transition to OLB and situational pass-rusher. His constantly moving motor would be well suited for the Jacksonville defense.

12. Miami Dolphins: Jason Pierre Paul DE South Florida

Joey Porter is on his way out and Jason Taylor might as well be too. The Dolphins need a pass rusher and Jason Pierre Paul could easily make the transition to the 3-4 defense. McClain has some value here, but the Dolphins need a pass rusher more than an ILB.

13. San Francisco 49ers: Trent Williams OT Oklahoma

Ah, to draft infront of a division rival…how sweet it is. Because the 49ers have two high picks they can have the luxury of bolstering their team at the expense of Seattle. Pending Earl Thomas/Taylor Mays value come April, I would say the 49ers could take an offensive lineman. They need a staple at right tackle, and the Seahawks need an anchor on the left. Why not arm yourself and hinder a rival…nothing could be sweeter.

14. Seattle Seahawks: Taylor Mays S USC

With no valuable tackles available at this point, the Seahawks need to address their horrible pass defense. Pete Carroll could easily do so by drafting Taylor Mays, a player that he knows will do well in his defensive system. If Pete Carroll passes on Mays, then we know something is truly wrong with the young safety. If Mays is the player everybody had thought he was last year, I do not see Mays falling past here.

15. New York Giants: Rolando McClain ILB Alabama

The Giants fired Antonio Pierce and want to be faster in the middle. McClain would be the perfect player for a pressing need.

16. San Francisco 49ers: Earl Thomas FS Texas

The 49ers could use some help in their pass defense and the ball hawking safety from Texas would do just the trick.

17. Tennessee Titans: Carlos Dunlap DE Florida

The Titans need to be able to get at the QB and Dunlap is great at doing just that. Dunlap could bolster that defensive line that used to be feared.

18. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike Iupati G Idaho

This probably won’t happen either….I do not agree with people when they say the Steelers do not draft for need. Santonio Holmes was replacing Randle El. Timmons/Woodley were supposed to replace Porter. Mendenhall was supposed to fill a void left long ago by Bettis’ retirement. The Steelers are comfortable drafting by need, but seemingly not if it is along the offensive line. The Steelers need linemen. Iupati is a nasty mountain that could play guard or tackle in the NFL. I won’t go on bemoaning the oline, but Iupati would be a definite upgrade in a position desperately wanting such.

19. Atlanta Falcons: Sergio Kindle OLB Texas

Mike Peterson is 34 years old and Stephen Nicholas is not all that dynamic. Kindle could step in and fill an Orakpo like need on the Falcons defense. Kindle would be a smart and versatile pick.

20. Houston Texans: CJ Spiller RB Clemson

This could not have worked out better. The Texans want a hungry, young running back and need help in the return game. Spiller would be the perfect weapon for an already dangerous Texans offense.

21. Cincinnati Bengals: Dez Bryant WR Oklahoma

What is Dez Bryant doing all the way down here? Wide receivers have been falling in value on draft day, character issue people (Rey Maualuga and Michael Johnson(Both Bengals picks)) fall in the draft and teams that need a wideout will try to get Boldin/Marshall/Owens/Jackson in free agency. The Bengals could easily find themselves a nice compliment to Ochocinco with this pick.

22. New England Patriots: Brandon Spikes ILB Florida

Belichick likes the University of Florida and its players. Brandon Spikes would definitely fill a need along New England’s defense. They would probably like a 3-4 DE, but all of them are reaches at this point. Spikes has the best bang for the buck. However, if the Patriots want to stir up some controversy, they could draft Tim Tebow here. Tebow could be groomed to be Brady’s replacement and help in short yardage wildcat stuff like Vick did in Philly. However, I do not think Pats would ignore obvious needs along the defense…but then again who knows.

23. Green Bay Packers: Bruce Campbell OT Maryland

Mark Tauscher came along and bolstered the Packer offensive line. However, he and Chad Clifton are both injury prone and over 30. The Pack needs a young tackle who could keep Aaron Rodgers upright and Campbell could be just that.

24. Philadelphia Eagles: Sean Witherspoon OLB Missouri

I think Philly will address their needs at defensive end via trade/free agency. That being said, their other major whole is in their lackluster linebacker corp. If they hope to stop the Cowboys, Giants, and Shanahan led Redskins’ running games, they had better get a linebacker and quick.

25. Baltimore Ravens: Kyle Wilson CB Boise State

Ladarius Webb will probably not be ready for the start of the regular season. This means that the Ravens need to add a corner. This is not a major need, but in an increasing pass oriented league an extra corner is never a bad thing. The pressing need is for a wide receiver, but I belive they will addres this with TO/Boldin/Marshall/Vincent Jackson. If wideout is addressed then the Ravens can add Wilson, a corner with a nose for interceptions who would fit in perfect with the turnover happy Raven defense.

26. Arizona Cardinals: Brandon Graham DE/OLB Michigan

Berry has retired and Dansby is out the door. Joey Porter will probably come to Arizona to take somebody’s place, but he only has a year or two left. Bringing in Graham would give the Cardinals youth at an important position.

27. Dallas Cowboys: Charles Brown OT USC

Dallas appears to be a well rounded team. With that being the case the Cowboys can draft for luxury and depth. That being said Flozell Adams is a penalty machine and having someone in the wings would not be the worst idea. Mount Cody or Jared Odrick would make sense, but for the moment I have them drafting Brown.

28. San Diego Chargers: Terrence Cody DT Alabama

Jamal Williams went down week one and is not getting any younger. Drafting a NT of the future should be priority one. If Mount Cody is not available Jared Odrick becomes an option. The point is the D-line needs an infusion of youth and Cody would be a big boon for the Chargers on draft day.

29. New York Jets: Jared Odrick DE/DT Penn State

Simply stated the Jets need to be able to get at a quarterback without relying on Revis to cover 2/3rds of the field (which he can totally do, it’s just rude to constantly ask him to do so). Odrick would be a solid pick up that would be free up the Jets linebackers to make more plays behind the line of scrimmage.

30. Minnesota Vikings: Brian Price DT UCLA

It’s not clear whether Pat Williams will be back next season. Even if he does come back a DT of the future should be a major priority.

31. Indianapolis Colts: Navarro Bowman OLB Penn State

The Colts will probably extend Gary Brackett, but they could stand to increase the speed in their linebacker corp. Bowman is a great linebacker out of Penn State, former grounds of Coach Caldwell. Bowman could make an immediate impact and solidify a defense that will be fearsome next year…especially if Bob Sanders can stay healthy.

32. New Orleans Saints: Everson Griffen DE USC

The Saints would have loved Bowman. Linebacker is by far the greatest need on this football team. However, there is not a linebacker available at this spot. The Saints can bide their time and probably draft Sean Lee at the end of the 2^nd or even 3^rd round. Griffen has great value at this pick, especially with Charles Grant’s approaching march out of New Orleans.