Don Banks: Mock Draft

**Tribal Warfare** · 02-25-2009, 01:59 PM

Don Banks >
INSIDE THE NFL
2009 NFL Mock Draft 2.0

I hold these mock draft truths to be self-evident after a four-day stint at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis:

* If you didn't come away from Indy convinced that Wake Forest linebacker Aaron Curry is a legitimate contender for the No. 1-overall pick, you weren't paying attention whatsoever. In fact, Everybody Loves Aaron could be the name of a new CBS sitcom any day now.

* It's Baylor's Jason Smith and then Virginia's Eugene Monroe when it comes to the top-rated offensive tackles. Andre Smith's self-destruction job at the combine may not be as fatal as first appeared, but it now seems likely the Alabama tackle exited both Indianapolis and the draft's top 10 in one fell swoop.

* You want a riser? I'll give you a riser: Connecticut running back Donald Brown might wind up being the first rusher taken before this whole beauty pageant is over. Brown's game has no discernible weakness and at worst he'll go behind only Georgia's Knowshon Moreno.

* The quarterbacks are question marks. Matthew Stafford could pull a Matt Leinart and last all the way to 10th, and the NFL considers Mark Sanchez still a work in progress. At the moment, consensus is non-existent when it comes to the top two arms in the draft.

* Teams aren't as willing as they once were to look the other way for a player who has either character or medical issues attached to his name. It's a play-it-safe kind of era in the NFL, and that may really hurt a player such as Andre Smith or fellow offensive tackle Michael Oher, who I've got tumbling to the second round. (Send comments to siwriters@simail.com.)

1 OLB Aaron Curry Wake Forest Sr. 6-3 247
Yes, we know it has been 21 years since a linebacker was the top pick in the NFL draft, and that one didn't work out so well for Atlanta, which selected the forgettable Aundray Bruce of Auburn in 1988. But Curry is now seen as the cleanest prospect in this year's talent pool, and convinced as I am that the Lions aren't taking a quarterback here, getting impact help for the league's bottom-ranked defense two-years running is the option Detroit will choose.

2 OT Jason Smith Baylor Sr. 6-5 305
The Rams were wowed by Curry at the combine, and he'll be the choice if he somehow gets past Detroit. Barring that scenario, offensive tackle remains the top priority and St. Louis will have two excellent prospects to choose from in Smith and Virginia's Eugene Monroe. We're giving them Smith for now, based on how well his combine experience went. The ex-tight end had nothing but impressive interviews, and his blend of brains and skill makes him a top five pick.

3 OT Eugene Monroe Virginia Jr. 6-6 315
New Chiefs general manager Scott Pioli said he won't hesitate to shop this pick in trade, and given his track record in New England, you can't dismiss that scenario. If K.C. stays put, it would love to team Monroe with his former Virginia teammate and fellow OT Branden Albert, who manned the left tackle slot last year as a rookie. Monroe is the most athletic of the top-rated tackles, and he's seen as a prospect ready to assume a starting job from Day One.

4 WR Michael Crabtree Texas Tech So. 6-3 214
The Seahawks are looking for an impact player in this spot, and the game film says no one impacted games like Crabtree last season. Between checking in a bit shorter than expected and discovering that he had a slight stress fracture in his left foot that will require surgery, Crabtree didn't have a good weekend in Indy. But I'm not over-reacting to those two headlines, because most NFL talent evaluators aren't either. Crabtree remains an undeniable top five talent.

5 LB Rey Maualuga USC Sr. 6-2 260
The Browns top need is for a pass-rushing outside linebacker in their 3-4 defense, but I'm hearing that new Browns general manager George Kokinis is wary of Brian Orakpo's penchant for injury -- he pulled a hamstring at the combine -- not to mention Texas' less-than-stellar track record of producing great NFL players. Boston College defensive tackle B.J. Raji is a name to remember for the Browns, but Maualuga would add some presence to the Browns lineup.

6 DE/LB Brian Orakpo Texas Sr. 6-4 260
The Bengals need pass rush, and Orakpo fits the bill, having collected 11½ sacks last season. But he's not just a one-dimensional talent who disappears against the run. Though some teams are concerned about his durability issues, he has good size and a history of production. Raji is another option for the Bengals, because quality defensive tackles are always in short supply.

7 DT B.J. Raji Boston College Sr. 6-1 323
The Raiders have no need as critical as their hole at left offensive tackle, but with Jason Smith and Monroe gone, Andre Smith's stock plummeting, and Ole Miss' Michael Oher not a consensus top 10 pick, we're giving them Raji, the draft's best run-stuffing, block-eating defensive tackle. Receiver is another need, so don't rule out Missouri receiver Jeremy Maclin or Florida receiver Percy Harvin, because we all know Al Davis loves speed.

8 QB Mark Sanchez USC Jr. 6-3 225
Don't be shocked if the Jaguars take a quarterback, because after David Garrard's so-so 2008 season, he's far from untouchable as Jacksonville's starter. I talked with someone within the league Tuesday who assured me the Jaguars have Sanchez graded higher than Georgia's Matthew Stafford, even though most personnel men have them the other way around. The Jags' minds could change after Stafford throws at his pro day, but for now we're sticking with Sanchez.

9 CB Malcolm Jenkins Ohio State Sr. 6-1 201
While the Packers would love to pick up a starter for a front seven that's transitioning to a 3-4 defense, Jenkins is too good a value to pass on. He ran in the range of 4.50 Tuesday, which should be good enough to keep him at cornerback in the NFL, rather than safety. With Jenkins in the fold, Green Bay could move Charles Woodson to safety.

10 QB Matthew Stafford Georgia Jr. 6-3 228
I know the junior quarterback thing didn't work out so well in 2005 for the 49ers, but they can't pass on Stafford in this slot. They think they can win now with Shaun Hill, and they're trying to bring Alex Smith back at the right price to offer competition, but in this scenario they can take Stafford and afford to let him continue maturing for a year or so.

11 DE Aaron Maybin Penn State So. 6-3½ 250
Maybin added weight since the end of his collegiate season and at 6-3½, 250 pounds, there's hope he could stand up to the pounding of playing end in a 4-3 formation. His 12 sacks, 20 tackles for loss and three forced fumbles as a junior last season were eye-opening, but he's viewed as something of a risk this high due to his limited track record. The Bills pass rush needs a jolt, but Maybin is just a maybe to rise as high as the top of the draft's second 10.

12 OLB Brian Cushing USC Sr. 6-3 255
As they join the crowd and switch to the 3-4 defensive formation, the Broncos look to be beyond the range of many of their most prized targets, like Curry, Arakpo, Raji, Jenkins and Maybin. We're giving them Cushing, but don't forget about his fellow ex-Trojans outside linebacker, Clay Matthews, who came out of combine week with a sense of momentum behind him.

13 OT Andre Smith Alabama Jr. 6-4 330
After the disastrous impression Smith left at the combine, I'm willing to admit this could be a bit high for the tackle, who some teams feel could now last into the 20s of the first round. But I'm factoring in the Redskins being desperate for a tackle, and that there's time for Smith to execute some rehabilitation to his reputation. Some scouts downgrade Smith because his body is really more guard-like than tackle-like, and say he's not worth stretching for.

14 CB Vontae Davis Illinois Jr. 6-0 204
Davis is the consensus second-best corner in this draft, but this is about as high as he could possibly go. The Saints' pass defense has been a perennial concern, and Davis gives them an infusion of youth in a secondary that's showing some age. LSU defensive end Tyson Jackson or even USC outside linebacker Clay Matthews could be intriguing options as well.

15 DE Tyson Jackson LSU Sr. 6-4 295
The Texans are in the market for a defensive end to play opposite Mario Williams and draw away some of the double-team attention that routinely comes his way. Jackson isn't rated as highly as Florida State end Everette Brown, but Brown is more of an outside linebacker than a 4-3 end in the NFL. At 6-4, 295, Jackson has the size the Texans need to balance out their defensive front.

16 RB Knowshon Moreno Georgia Jr. 5-11 207
While it has been proven you don't have to go shopping in the first round to find a running back, I seem to remember LaDainian Tomlinson was a first-round pick. Moreno is a good value in this slot and gives the Chargers their future replacement for LT. And don't overlook Connecticut's Donald Brown, a fast riser who some believe will be in the discussion to be the first or second back taken before everything's said and done.

17 WR Jeremy Maclin Missouri So. 6-1 200
The Jets on my board have their pick of four first-round receivers: the speedsters Maclin, Darrius Heyward-Bey of Maryland and Percy Harvin of Florida, as well as North Carolina's Hakeem Nicks. But Maclin is the highest rated talent among that group and he'd help stretch defenses vertically while lining up opposite Jerricho Cotchery.

18 OT Eben Britton Arizona Jr. 6-6 309
John Tait's retirement puts the Bears in the market for another offensive tackle, and while the higher-rated Michael Oher remains on the board, the word is he started taking on water at the combine and will continue to sink as the scouting process continues. Teams just don't have as much patience for draft prospects with character issues as they did in the pre-Roger Goodell days.

19 WR Darrius Heyward-Bey Maryland Jr. 6-3 206
The Terps' receiver had a tremendous combine workout and ran a blazing 40 in the range of 4.3. That will entice the Bucs, who need some speed to replace the aging Joey Galloway and draw some of the coverage away from franchised receiver Antonio Bryant.

20 DT Peria Jerry Ole Miss Sr. 6-2 300
Having snagged a linebacker at No. 1, the Lions turn back to their needs up front. Jerry is an athletic 300-pounder who can help fill the gaps on run defense. This may look a little high for him right now, but by April it won't. Quality defensive tackles never last long in the first round.

21 RB Donald Brown UConn Jr. 5-10 210
The Eagles will finally lighten Brian Westbrook's load by taking Brown, who had as good a combine as any other prospect in Indy. Brown runs in the low 4.4s, catches the ball well, can pick up the blitz with his blocking and hit home runs in the interview phase of the combine. He'll be a consensus first-rounder by the time April rolls around.

22 WR/RB Percy Harvin Florida Jr. 5-11 195
Adding an explosive option to the passing game might help quarterback Tarvaris Jackson's development as much as anything. Harvin could be an X factor in the Vikings attack, moving around and creating matchup problems wherever he goes. If the Vikings go defense, Vanderbilt cornerback D.J. Moore is a name to keep track of.

23 LB James Laurinaitis Ohio State Sr. 6-3 240
I think Fred Taylor signs with the Patriots any day now, taking running back off the need list to some degree. Laurinaitis didn't help himself at the combine, running a 4.8 and looking so-so in the drills. But he's a Patriots-type of player, with tremendous character and work ethic. Ohio State linebackers have been iffy, but the Patriots are hoping to draft Tedy Bruschi's replacement on the inside, and Laurinaitis' proven track record could earn him the nod.

24 TE Brandon Pettigrew Oklahoma State Sr. 6-6 260
Pettigrew didn't run well at the combine, with his 4.8 showing convincing scouts he'll never stretch the field as a downfield option in the passing game. But he's the best overall tight end in the draft, and as much as Atlanta runs the ball in its Michael Turner-led offense, adding Pettigrew's talent as a blocker and pass catcher makes this a defensible pick.

25 DE/LB Everette Brown Florida State Sr. 6-4 252
I have Brown slipping a considerable way down my board, and it appears he projects to a 3-4 outside linebacker in the NFL. Miami is looking for someone to create pass pressure opposite Joey Porter, and it should have options in this slot. Brown, USC's Clay Matthews and North Illinois's Larry English all fit the job description the Dolphins are looking to fill.

26 CB Sean Smith Utah Jr. 6-3 214
I'm just playing a hunch here, but the Ravens are in the market for a cornerback to take over Chris McAlister's vacated slot, and Baltimore has always liked its pass defenders to have some size. Smith is taller than the likes of Vanderbilt's D.J. Moore, Connecticut's Darius Butler and Wake Forest's Alphonso Smith, so I'm going with him for now.

27 LB Clay Matthews USC Sr. 6-3 240
The Colts could take a polished and pro-ready receiver like Hakeem Nicks in this slot, but Matthews is a prospect who generated some momentum for himself at the combine and exited the week with a first-round grade in the eyes of many teams. The Colts are known for actually taking the best player available in the first round, rather than being limited by need.

28 OT William Beatty Connecticut Sr. 6-6 307
I want to give the Eagles Hakeem Nicks here, because it would make Donovan McNabb happy and really ruin the plans of the No. 29 Giants, who covet Nicks. But the need at offensive tackle is too great, and with the Eagles taking running back Donald Brown at No. 21, I say they turn to his Huskies teammate Beatty with their second first-round selection.

29 WR Hakeem Nicks North Carolina Jr. 6-2 210
You know what New York is thinking: We can't count on having Plaxico "I'm Carrying" Burress this season, so we have to go get his replacement. As a big receiver with a first-round grade, Nicks is the logical choice for the Giants' greatest need.

30 DE Robert Ayers Tennessee Sr. 6-3 272
The Titans don't have to reach for any particular position, but it stands to reason they'll look to fortify their defensive line ranks in the expectation of losing Albert Haynesworth in free agency. Ayers had a solid Senior Bowl and he's the type of versatile talent who can sneak into the bottom of the first round. The Titans' search for another receiving threat will have to wait once again.

31 RB Chris "Beanie" Wells Ohio State Jr. 6-1 237
The Cardinals might address their need at running back in free agency, long before the draft, and then go in a different direction come late April. But if they don't, Wells represents good value at the bottom of the round. Then again, maybe Edgerrin James doesn't wind up going anywhere in 2009 and the issue at running back remains clouded in Arizona.

32 CB D.J. Moore Vanderbilt Jr. 5-10 182
Nothing too tricky about this pick. The Steelers believe they're likely to lose starting cornerback Bryant McFadden in free agency, and they're not too sure his replacement currently resides on their roster. Moore is in the mix along with the shorter Alphonso Smith of Wake Forest.

**Tribal Warfare** · 02-25-2009, 02:00 PM

Full-reerun

crazycoffey · 02-25-2009, 02:09 PM

I like the first two.

talastan · 02-25-2009, 02:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CrazyCoffey

I like the first two.

If the first two do fall this way I see no reason not to pick up Stafford at this point.

**The Franchise** · 02-25-2009, 02:35 PM

So let me get this straight. Stafford could fall to #10 like Leinart and the NFL views Sanchez as a prospect. Yet Sanchez goes before Stafford in this mock. Freaking reeruned.

crazycoffey · 02-25-2009, 03:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by talastan

If the first two do fall this way I see no reason not to pick up Stafford at this point.

I agree and actually think we have a shot at him. Question is, does pioli pull the trigger?

**DaneMcCloud** · 02-25-2009, 05:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pestilenceaf23

So let me get this straight. Stafford could fall to #10 like Leinart and the NFL views Sanchez as a prospect. Yet Sanchez goes before Stafford in this mock. Freaking reeruned.

And what's just as dumb as that he's got Crabtree at 4 AND listed at 6'3.

If the Seahawks are dumb enough to draft Crabtree with the 4th pick when he's 2 inches shorter than advertise and can't be timed in the 40, they'll be back in the top 5 again next year.

Hammock Parties · 02-25-2009, 05:26 PM

If we take a right tackle with a fargin' QB on the board I will 'splode

BigChiefFan · 02-25-2009, 05:59 PM

Even I'm laughing at this mock. I really can't see a one-dimensional LBer(sorry, he isn't known as a pass-rusher) and a Baylor player going 1 and 2 overall. No matter how much I try and be objective-no offense to Baylor, Smith is a Hell of a Prospect, but I believe the bigger program guy(Monroe) gets the edge based on the program and the recent success of Branden Albert.

MagicHef · 02-25-2009, 06:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Don Banks

5 LB Rey Maualuga USC Sr. 6-2 260
The Browns top need is for a pass-rushing outside linebacker in their 3-4 defense, but I'm hearing that new Browns general manager George Kokinis is wary of Brian Orakpo's penchant for injury -- he pulled a hamstring at the combine -- not to mention Texas' less-than-stellar track record of producing great NFL players. Boston College defensive tackle B.J. Raji is a name to remember for the Browns, but Maualuga would add some presence to the Browns lineup.

So, they take Maualuga because Orakpo got injured at the combine? Brilliant.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Don Banks

25 DE/LB Everette Brown Florida State Sr. 6-4 252
I have Brown slipping a considerable way down my board, and it appears he projects to a 3-4 outside linebacker in the NFL. Miami is looking for someone to create pass pressure opposite Joey Porter, and it should have options in this slot. Brown, USC's Clay Matthews and North Illinois's Larry English all fit the job description the Dolphins are looking to fill.

Oh, my.

**DeezNutz** · 02-25-2009, 06:29 PM

You can read the write up on the Chiefs and tell that this guy has no idea what the **** he's talking about. There is no justification or explanation for the selection. Just, "Albert manned the left-tackle slot as a rookie."

Fine, you stupid ****. Why the hell are we moving him? Why do we need another LT who is ready to start day one?

You know why you have this pick here? Because LT's often go high, Monroe is talented as hell, and you have no idea what the **** the Chiefs have or need. Shut the **** up.

It's dumbshits like this that cause what might be a bunch of otherwise good posters to say a bunch of really stupid shit. "Oh, DeezNutz...he thinks he knows more than Don Banks!"

Who the **** is Don Banks? A mother****ing dipshit, that's who. Take this mock, and shove it up your ass.

milkman · 02-25-2009, 06:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DeezNutz

You can read the write up on the Chiefs and tell that this guy has no idea what the **** he's talking about. There is no justification or explanation for the selection. Just, "Albert manned the left-tackle slot as a rookie."

Fine, you stupid ****. Why the hell are we moving him? Why do we need another LT who is ready to start day one?

You know why you have this pick here? Because LT's often go high, Monroe is talented as hell, and you have no idea what the **** the Chiefs have or need. Shut the **** up.

It's dumbshits like this that cause what might be a bunch of otherwise good posters to say a bunch of really stupid shit. "Oh, DeezNutz...he thinks he knows more than Don Banks!"

Who the **** is Don Banks? A mother****ing dipshit, that's who. Take this mock, and shove it up your ass.

Mecca · 02-25-2009, 07:53 PM

I've tried to give Don Banks the benefit but after years and years of stupid shit like this I just can't do it anymore, this guy is dumb.

ohiobronco2 · 02-25-2009, 07:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MagicHef

So, they take Maualuga because Orakpo got injured at the combine? Brilliant.

Oh, my.

Thank You. That was the first thing that came to my mind as well.

orange · 02-25-2009, 08:21 PM

Don Banks Mock Draft 2008 - vs - Actual Draft 2008

1 - Chris Long - Jake Long
2 - Jake Long - Chris Long
3 - Matt Ryan - Matt Ryan
4 - Darren McFadden - Darrren McFadden
5 - Glenn Dorsey - Glenn Dorsey
6 - Vernon Gholston - Vernon Gholston
7 - Leodis McKelvin - Sedrick Ellis
8 - Aqib Talib - Derrick Harvey
9 - Sedrick Ellis - Keith Rivers
10- Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie - Jerod Mayo

Seven of his top ten actually went in the top ten. He was almost perfect 1-6. 16 of his top 20 actually went in the top 20, with two more direct hits (Clady, Otah).

What a morooon!

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/200...raft4.partone/

02-25-2009, 01:59 PM
Tribal Warfare The Boom Boom Room Join Date: Aug 2000 Location: Far Beyond Comprehension Casino cash: $502813	Don Banks: Mock Draft Don Banks > INSIDE THE NFL 2009 NFL Mock Draft 2.0 I hold these mock draft truths to be self-evident after a four-day stint at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis: * If you didn't come away from Indy convinced that Wake Forest linebacker Aaron Curry is a legitimate contender for the No. 1-overall pick, you weren't paying attention whatsoever. In fact, Everybody Loves Aaron could be the name of a new CBS sitcom any day now. * It's Baylor's Jason Smith and then Virginia's Eugene Monroe when it comes to the top-rated offensive tackles. Andre Smith's self-destruction job at the combine may not be as fatal as first appeared, but it now seems likely the Alabama tackle exited both Indianapolis and the draft's top 10 in one fell swoop. * You want a riser? I'll give you a riser: Connecticut running back Donald Brown might wind up being the first rusher taken before this whole beauty pageant is over. Brown's game has no discernible weakness and at worst he'll go behind only Georgia's Knowshon Moreno. * The quarterbacks are question marks. Matthew Stafford could pull a Matt Leinart and last all the way to 10th, and the NFL considers Mark Sanchez still a work in progress. At the moment, consensus is non-existent when it comes to the top two arms in the draft. * Teams aren't as willing as they once were to look the other way for a player who has either character or medical issues attached to his name. It's a play-it-safe kind of era in the NFL, and that may really hurt a player such as Andre Smith or fellow offensive tackle Michael Oher, who I've got tumbling to the second round. (Send comments to siwriters@simail.com.) 1 OLB Aaron Curry Wake Forest Sr. 6-3 247 Yes, we know it has been 21 years since a linebacker was the top pick in the NFL draft, and that one didn't work out so well for Atlanta, which selected the forgettable Aundray Bruce of Auburn in 1988. But Curry is now seen as the cleanest prospect in this year's talent pool, and convinced as I am that the Lions aren't taking a quarterback here, getting impact help for the league's bottom-ranked defense two-years running is the option Detroit will choose. 2 OT Jason Smith Baylor Sr. 6-5 305 The Rams were wowed by Curry at the combine, and he'll be the choice if he somehow gets past Detroit. Barring that scenario, offensive tackle remains the top priority and St. Louis will have two excellent prospects to choose from in Smith and Virginia's Eugene Monroe. We're giving them Smith for now, based on how well his combine experience went. The ex-tight end had nothing but impressive interviews, and his blend of brains and skill makes him a top five pick. 3 OT Eugene Monroe Virginia Jr. 6-6 315 New Chiefs general manager Scott Pioli said he won't hesitate to shop this pick in trade, and given his track record in New England, you can't dismiss that scenario. If K.C. stays put, it would love to team Monroe with his former Virginia teammate and fellow OT Branden Albert, who manned the left tackle slot last year as a rookie. Monroe is the most athletic of the top-rated tackles, and he's seen as a prospect ready to assume a starting job from Day One. 4 WR Michael Crabtree Texas Tech So. 6-3 214 The Seahawks are looking for an impact player in this spot, and the game film says no one impacted games like Crabtree last season. Between checking in a bit shorter than expected and discovering that he had a slight stress fracture in his left foot that will require surgery, Crabtree didn't have a good weekend in Indy. But I'm not over-reacting to those two headlines, because most NFL talent evaluators aren't either. Crabtree remains an undeniable top five talent. 5 LB Rey Maualuga USC Sr. 6-2 260 The Browns top need is for a pass-rushing outside linebacker in their 3-4 defense, but I'm hearing that new Browns general manager George Kokinis is wary of Brian Orakpo's penchant for injury -- he pulled a hamstring at the combine -- not to mention Texas' less-than-stellar track record of producing great NFL players. Boston College defensive tackle B.J. Raji is a name to remember for the Browns, but Maualuga would add some presence to the Browns lineup. 6 DE/LB Brian Orakpo Texas Sr. 6-4 260 The Bengals need pass rush, and Orakpo fits the bill, having collected 11½ sacks last season. But he's not just a one-dimensional talent who disappears against the run. Though some teams are concerned about his durability issues, he has good size and a history of production. Raji is another option for the Bengals, because quality defensive tackles are always in short supply. 7 DT B.J. Raji Boston College Sr. 6-1 323 The Raiders have no need as critical as their hole at left offensive tackle, but with Jason Smith and Monroe gone, Andre Smith's stock plummeting, and Ole Miss' Michael Oher not a consensus top 10 pick, we're giving them Raji, the draft's best run-stuffing, block-eating defensive tackle. Receiver is another need, so don't rule out Missouri receiver Jeremy Maclin or Florida receiver Percy Harvin, because we all know Al Davis loves speed. 8 QB Mark Sanchez USC Jr. 6-3 225 Don't be shocked if the Jaguars take a quarterback, because after David Garrard's so-so 2008 season, he's far from untouchable as Jacksonville's starter. I talked with someone within the league Tuesday who assured me the Jaguars have Sanchez graded higher than Georgia's Matthew Stafford, even though most personnel men have them the other way around. The Jags' minds could change after Stafford throws at his pro day, but for now we're sticking with Sanchez. 9 CB Malcolm Jenkins Ohio State Sr. 6-1 201 While the Packers would love to pick up a starter for a front seven that's transitioning to a 3-4 defense, Jenkins is too good a value to pass on. He ran in the range of 4.50 Tuesday, which should be good enough to keep him at cornerback in the NFL, rather than safety. With Jenkins in the fold, Green Bay could move Charles Woodson to safety. 10 QB Matthew Stafford Georgia Jr. 6-3 228 I know the junior quarterback thing didn't work out so well in 2005 for the 49ers, but they can't pass on Stafford in this slot. They think they can win now with Shaun Hill, and they're trying to bring Alex Smith back at the right price to offer competition, but in this scenario they can take Stafford and afford to let him continue maturing for a year or so. 11 DE Aaron Maybin Penn State So. 6-3½ 250 Maybin added weight since the end of his collegiate season and at 6-3½, 250 pounds, there's hope he could stand up to the pounding of playing end in a 4-3 formation. His 12 sacks, 20 tackles for loss and three forced fumbles as a junior last season were eye-opening, but he's viewed as something of a risk this high due to his limited track record. The Bills pass rush needs a jolt, but Maybin is just a maybe to rise as high as the top of the draft's second 10. 12 OLB Brian Cushing USC Sr. 6-3 255 As they join the crowd and switch to the 3-4 defensive formation, the Broncos look to be beyond the range of many of their most prized targets, like Curry, Arakpo, Raji, Jenkins and Maybin. We're giving them Cushing, but don't forget about his fellow ex-Trojans outside linebacker, Clay Matthews, who came out of combine week with a sense of momentum behind him. 13 OT Andre Smith Alabama Jr. 6-4 330 After the disastrous impression Smith left at the combine, I'm willing to admit this could be a bit high for the tackle, who some teams feel could now last into the 20s of the first round. But I'm factoring in the Redskins being desperate for a tackle, and that there's time for Smith to execute some rehabilitation to his reputation. Some scouts downgrade Smith because his body is really more guard-like than tackle-like, and say he's not worth stretching for. 14 CB Vontae Davis Illinois Jr. 6-0 204 Davis is the consensus second-best corner in this draft, but this is about as high as he could possibly go. The Saints' pass defense has been a perennial concern, and Davis gives them an infusion of youth in a secondary that's showing some age. LSU defensive end Tyson Jackson or even USC outside linebacker Clay Matthews could be intriguing options as well. 15 DE Tyson Jackson LSU Sr. 6-4 295 The Texans are in the market for a defensive end to play opposite Mario Williams and draw away some of the double-team attention that routinely comes his way. Jackson isn't rated as highly as Florida State end Everette Brown, but Brown is more of an outside linebacker than a 4-3 end in the NFL. At 6-4, 295, Jackson has the size the Texans need to balance out their defensive front. 16 RB Knowshon Moreno Georgia Jr. 5-11 207 While it has been proven you don't have to go shopping in the first round to find a running back, I seem to remember LaDainian Tomlinson was a first-round pick. Moreno is a good value in this slot and gives the Chargers their future replacement for LT. And don't overlook Connecticut's Donald Brown, a fast riser who some believe will be in the discussion to be the first or second back taken before everything's said and done. 17 WR Jeremy Maclin Missouri So. 6-1 200 The Jets on my board have their pick of four first-round receivers: the speedsters Maclin, Darrius Heyward-Bey of Maryland and Percy Harvin of Florida, as well as North Carolina's Hakeem Nicks. But Maclin is the highest rated talent among that group and he'd help stretch defenses vertically while lining up opposite Jerricho Cotchery. 18 OT Eben Britton Arizona Jr. 6-6 309 John Tait's retirement puts the Bears in the market for another offensive tackle, and while the higher-rated Michael Oher remains on the board, the word is he started taking on water at the combine and will continue to sink as the scouting process continues. Teams just don't have as much patience for draft prospects with character issues as they did in the pre-Roger Goodell days. 19 WR Darrius Heyward-Bey Maryland Jr. 6-3 206 The Terps' receiver had a tremendous combine workout and ran a blazing 40 in the range of 4.3. That will entice the Bucs, who need some speed to replace the aging Joey Galloway and draw some of the coverage away from franchised receiver Antonio Bryant. 20 DT Peria Jerry Ole Miss Sr. 6-2 300 Having snagged a linebacker at No. 1, the Lions turn back to their needs up front. Jerry is an athletic 300-pounder who can help fill the gaps on run defense. This may look a little high for him right now, but by April it won't. Quality defensive tackles never last long in the first round. 21 RB Donald Brown UConn Jr. 5-10 210 The Eagles will finally lighten Brian Westbrook's load by taking Brown, who had as good a combine as any other prospect in Indy. Brown runs in the low 4.4s, catches the ball well, can pick up the blitz with his blocking and hit home runs in the interview phase of the combine. He'll be a consensus first-rounder by the time April rolls around. 22 WR/RB Percy Harvin Florida Jr. 5-11 195 Adding an explosive option to the passing game might help quarterback Tarvaris Jackson's development as much as anything. Harvin could be an X factor in the Vikings attack, moving around and creating matchup problems wherever he goes. If the Vikings go defense, Vanderbilt cornerback D.J. Moore is a name to keep track of. 23 LB James Laurinaitis Ohio State Sr. 6-3 240 I think Fred Taylor signs with the Patriots any day now, taking running back off the need list to some degree. Laurinaitis didn't help himself at the combine, running a 4.8 and looking so-so in the drills. But he's a Patriots-type of player, with tremendous character and work ethic. Ohio State linebackers have been iffy, but the Patriots are hoping to draft Tedy Bruschi's replacement on the inside, and Laurinaitis' proven track record could earn him the nod. 24 TE Brandon Pettigrew Oklahoma State Sr. 6-6 260 Pettigrew didn't run well at the combine, with his 4.8 showing convincing scouts he'll never stretch the field as a downfield option in the passing game. But he's the best overall tight end in the draft, and as much as Atlanta runs the ball in its Michael Turner-led offense, adding Pettigrew's talent as a blocker and pass catcher makes this a defensible pick. 25 DE/LB Everette Brown Florida State Sr. 6-4 252 I have Brown slipping a considerable way down my board, and it appears he projects to a 3-4 outside linebacker in the NFL. Miami is looking for someone to create pass pressure opposite Joey Porter, and it should have options in this slot. Brown, USC's Clay Matthews and North Illinois's Larry English all fit the job description the Dolphins are looking to fill. 26 CB Sean Smith Utah Jr. 6-3 214 I'm just playing a hunch here, but the Ravens are in the market for a cornerback to take over Chris McAlister's vacated slot, and Baltimore has always liked its pass defenders to have some size. Smith is taller than the likes of Vanderbilt's D.J. Moore, Connecticut's Darius Butler and Wake Forest's Alphonso Smith, so I'm going with him for now. 27 LB Clay Matthews USC Sr. 6-3 240 The Colts could take a polished and pro-ready receiver like Hakeem Nicks in this slot, but Matthews is a prospect who generated some momentum for himself at the combine and exited the week with a first-round grade in the eyes of many teams. The Colts are known for actually taking the best player available in the first round, rather than being limited by need. 28 OT William Beatty Connecticut Sr. 6-6 307 I want to give the Eagles Hakeem Nicks here, because it would make Donovan McNabb happy and really ruin the plans of the No. 29 Giants, who covet Nicks. But the need at offensive tackle is too great, and with the Eagles taking running back Donald Brown at No. 21, I say they turn to his Huskies teammate Beatty with their second first-round selection. 29 WR Hakeem Nicks North Carolina Jr. 6-2 210 You know what New York is thinking: We can't count on having Plaxico "I'm Carrying" Burress this season, so we have to go get his replacement. As a big receiver with a first-round grade, Nicks is the logical choice for the Giants' greatest need. 30 DE Robert Ayers Tennessee Sr. 6-3 272 The Titans don't have to reach for any particular position, but it stands to reason they'll look to fortify their defensive line ranks in the expectation of losing Albert Haynesworth in free agency. Ayers had a solid Senior Bowl and he's the type of versatile talent who can sneak into the bottom of the first round. The Titans' search for another receiving threat will have to wait once again. 31 RB Chris "Beanie" Wells Ohio State Jr. 6-1 237 The Cardinals might address their need at running back in free agency, long before the draft, and then go in a different direction come late April. But if they don't, Wells represents good value at the bottom of the round. Then again, maybe Edgerrin James doesn't wind up going anywhere in 2009 and the issue at running back remains clouded in Arizona. 32 CB D.J. Moore Vanderbilt Jr. 5-10 182 Nothing too tricky about this pick. The Steelers believe they're likely to lose starting cornerback Bryant McFadden in free agency, and they're not too sure his replacement currently resides on their roster. Moore is in the mix along with the shorter Alphonso Smith of Wake Forest.
Posts: 42,174

02-25-2009, 02:00 PM	#2
Tribal Warfare The Boom Boom Room Join Date: Aug 2000 Location: Far Beyond Comprehension Casino cash: $502813	Full-reerun __________________
Posts: 42,174

02-25-2009, 02:09 PM	#3
crazycoffey .......... Join Date: Dec 2006 Casino cash: $5087901	I like the first two.
Posts: 28,332

02-25-2009, 02:35 PM	#5
The Franchise Most Valuable Villain Join Date: Dec 2006 Casino cash: $2695047	So let me get this straight. Stafford could fall to #10 like Leinart and the NFL views Sanchez as a prospect. Yet Sanchez goes before Stafford in this mock. Freaking reeruned.
Posts: 92,306

02-25-2009, 05:26 PM	#8
Hammock Parties I'll be back. Join Date: Nov 2002 Casino cash: $4300478	If we take a right tackle with a fargin' QB on the board I will 'splode __________________ Chiefs game films
Posts: 279,147

02-25-2009, 05:59 PM	#9
BigChiefFan MVP Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: In the Top 10 Casino cash: $9924205	Even I'm laughing at this mock. I really can't see a one-dimensional LBer(sorry, he isn't known as a pass-rusher) and a Baylor player going 1 and 2 overall. No matter how much I try and be objective-no offense to Baylor, Smith is a Hell of a Prospect, but I believe the bigger program guy(Monroe) gets the edge based on the program and the recent success of Branden Albert. __________________ A 35 year drought can make you thirsty.
Posts: 15,777

02-25-2009, 07:53 PM	#13
Mecca Hockey Town Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Kansas City, Missouri Casino cash: $2207050	I've tried to give Don Banks the benefit but after years and years of stupid shit like this I just can't do it anymore, this guy is dumb.
Posts: 111,215

02-25-2009, 08:21 PM	#15
orange MVP Join Date: Sep 2000 Location: Denver, CO Casino cash: $10004900	Don Banks Mock Draft 2008 - vs - Actual Draft 2008 1 - Chris Long - Jake Long 2 - Jake Long - Chris Long 3 - Matt Ryan - Matt Ryan 4 - Darren McFadden - Darrren McFadden 5 - Glenn Dorsey - Glenn Dorsey 6 - Vernon Gholston - Vernon Gholston 7 - Leodis McKelvin - Sedrick Ellis 8 - Aqib Talib - Derrick Harvey 9 - Sedrick Ellis - Keith Rivers 10- Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie - Jerod Mayo Seven of his top ten actually went in the top ten. He was almost perfect 1-6. 16 of his top 20 actually went in the top 20, with two more direct hits (Clady, Otah). What a morooon! http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/200...raft4.partone/ Last edited by orange; 02-25-2009 at 08:34 PM..
Posts: 11,661