Tribal Warfare
04-22-2009, 08:03 AM
Three Round 2009 NFL Mock Draft (http://warroomreport.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=447&Itemid=1)
1. Detroit Lions - Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia
Coming off the worst season in NFL history, the Lions have a potential franchise changing pick here. The options are numerous, as the Lions need help at virtually every position. 2008 first rounder Gosder Cherilus struggled and does not look like a future NFL left tackle, which would make Jason Smith or Eugene Monroe very enticing here. Aaron Curry just may be the best player in the draft and would finally solve the problem at middle linebacker for the Lions. However, in the end, look for the Lions, particularly Martin Mayhew to reach for the big splash - QB Matthew Stafford. The Lions off-season moves, jettisoning Jon Kitna and not re signing Dan Orvlosky, seems to point to them using this selection to find their new QB. While this may not be the right selection, as there were concerns over Stafford's mediocre collegiate production, his strong arm and outstanding intelligence will lead the Lions to place the faith of their franchise in him.
2. St. Louis Rams - Jason Smith, OT, Baylor
The Rams have needed to find the long term answer at left tackle for several drafts now and have been unable. They missed out on Jake Long last season and had to deal with even more injuries from Orlando Pace. Pace has since been released, causing a gaping hole at left tackle. Their line was dismal in 2008, allowing 45 sacks and forcing Marc Bulger to the sidelines. Jason Smith is an athletic, former tight end with Pro Bowl left tackle ability. Virginia's Eugene Monroe may be a bit more polished, but Smith's upside is hard to ignore here. The Rams may be enticed by Michael Crabtree, as Torry Holt and Drew Bennett will not be back. New head coach Steve Spagnuolo may covet the skill of linebacker Aaron Curry, but he will recognize that selecting Smith is the right thing to do, as the team must rebuild their offensive line to return to prominence.
3. Kansas City Chiefs - B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College
New GM Scott Pioli has been aggressive in retooling the Chiefs, adding Matt Cassel. However, now the Chiefs are left with just one pick in the first 66 picks, so they must make this pick count. Many are pointing towards Wake Forest LB Aaron Curry, who is the best defensive player in the draft and possess the type of versatility that Pioli craves. However, the Chiefs have a huge hole in their front line. 2008 first rounder Glenn Dorsey disappointed and is not the type of two gap defensive tackle that the Chiefs defense needs. Boston College DT B.J. Raji has outstanding bulk and can be an anchor versus the run. The Patriots defense was long build on a strong front three, and the Chiefs need to take advantage of the opportunity to selection Raji here. True nose tackles are almost impossible to find and one as productive as Raji should be the selection. The recent additions of Mike Vrabel, Zach Thomas, and Monty Beisel and attempted conversion of Tamba Hali – while ignoring their front three, makes it even more likely that Raji is the choice.
4. Seattle Seahawks - Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia
The signing of T.J. Houshmandzadeh likely takes Michael Crabtree out of the running for this selection. Walter Jones, the long time stalwart at left tackle for the Seahawks is in his mid thirties and coming off micro fracture surgery. Eugene Monroe is the most NFL ready of the offensive tackles in the draft and is equally adept at run and pass blocking. If the Seahawks take Monroe they can move Jones to the right tackle spot and solidify their entire line. Monroe may lack the upside of Jason Smith, Andre Smith, or Michael Oher, but he comes with a lot less risk. Remember, this is the player that kept 2008 1st round pick Branden Albert at guard while at Virginia. If the Seahawks do not take an offensive tackle, watch out for them to consider adding to their defensive line with Brian Orakpo, despite the presence of star Patrick Kerney.
5. Cleveland Browns - Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest
New head coach Eric Mangini takes over one of the most disappointing teams from the 2008 season and faces the daunting task of rebuilding a defense that struggled greatly versus the run. The Browns investment in their front three did not pay off as expected last year, largely due to ineffective linebacking play. The Browns are hopefully that Alex Hall can develop into a pass rushing threat and still have Kamerion Wimbley, but will be unable to pass on Aaron Curry, the most complete linebacking prospect seen since Lavar Arrington. Curry has the flexibility to play both inside and outside in the Browns scheme and has the type of work ethic to endear him to Mangini. If Curry is gone, look for the Browns to address their linebacking corps with Brian Orakpo, as they simply must improve their defense. Rumors have been circulating that the Browns are itching to trade Braylon Edwards – but trading Edwards then taking Crabtree here is not the right move. Their defense must come first.
6. Cincinnati Bengals - Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas
The Bengals could manage only 17 sacks all of last year and lack a true starter at the defensive end position. Brian Orakpo is a tremendous athlete who has elite strength and put up 11.5 sacks in 2008 for the Longhorns. He uses his strength well to play versus the run as well as the pass, and is the type of high character player that the Bengals need. Some feel that Orakpo could translate to a 3-4 outside linebacker position, but his stiffness means he is likely to be a better player as a traditional defensive end. If B.J. Raji is on the board, the Bengals will have to look hard at the interior linemen, despite signing Tank Johnson. After losing Stacy Andrews, the Bengals may be tempted to grab an offensive tackle, but hopefully have learned their lessons in regard to character and pass on Andre Smith.
7. Oakland Raiders - Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri
Always the wildcard in the draft, the Raiders are in a unique position. They really need to add a wide receiver, as their top receiver had just 22 catches in 2008. Javon Walker is returning at a reduced salary, but the other options are not encouraging. Many will automatically point Texas Tech star Michael Crabtree here, but Al Davis' fascination with speed is well documented. Not only will we not have a forty yard dash time for Michael Crabtree, but his game tape shows that while he has adequate speed, he is not the typical burner that the Raidres crave. Jeremy Maclin ran a 4.40 flat on the slow surface in Indianapolis and is the type of deep threat that Oakland would love to add for JaMarcus Russell. It may seem that this is a shock pick, but it is hard to ignore the Raiders history. Crabtree is still an option if the Raiders want a more complete receiver, but never doubt Al Davis. The Raiders have had some options at offensive tackle, but still the cupboard is very bare at WR.
8. Jacksonville Jaguars - Mark Sanchez, QB, USC
The off-season signings of Tra Thomas and Torry Holt gave the Jags much more flexibility with this pick. Prior to the signings, it appeared likely they would be forced to go for an offensive tackle or a wide receiver here. They could still be very intriguied by Michael Crabtre, who represents a good value and would pair with Holt to give the Jaguars the best receiving duo they have had since the days of Jimmy Smith and Keenan McCardell. However, there are many signs that the Jaguars are in love with USC QB Mark Sanchez. Sanchez may have only started one year at USC but he is probably the most NFL ready of all of the QB prospects in the draft. David Garrard regressed in 2008, which may be the big reason the Jaguars are so interested in upgrading the QB position.
9. Green Bay Packers – Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU
Green Bay is transitioning to a 3-4 defense under new defensive coordinator Dom Capers and are going to use the draft to find pieces to fit the new scheme. B.J. Raji seems like the obvious pick if he is available here – the Packers only had Ryan Pickett at nose tackle and his ability to hold up all season is a question. If Raji is gone, the Packers will look at improving their defensive end position with Tyson Jackson or selecting one of the many pass rushing prospects in the draft. In the end, a successful 3-4 is built up front, and the depth at OLB will allow the Packers to select LSU DE Tyson Jackson here. Jackson is a much better player than often given credit for, and his verstatility in the new scheme will be a huge benefit. The concerns about prospective starters Cullen Jenkins returning from an injury and Johnny Jolly’s criminal trial make Jackson the pick over Robert Ayers, Everette Brown, and Aaron Maybin.
10. San Francisco 49ers – Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
This would be the dream scenario for the 49ers. Their WR position is pretty bare, despite the signing of Brandon Jones. Crabtree is the type of high character impact player that the 49ers need. San Francisco was able to sign Marvel Smith to play right tackle and appear poised to pass on an offensive tackle here. After the firing of Mike Nolan, the 49ers switched to more a pure 3-4 and their defense improved greatly. A finally healthy Manny Lawson and Parys Haralson appear ready to man the outside linebacker spots for the 49ers. Crabtree's foot injury and the signing of Torry Holt by the Jaguars will alllow the 49ers to get their man.
11. Buffalo Bills – Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
Prior to the trade of Jason Peters, it appeared that the Bills would opt for help at TE or DE here. However, they now have a gaping hole on the left side of the line, not just at tackle, but at guard, where Derrick Dockery was released. Langston Walker is not the solution at left tackle and the Bills are going hope that either Andre Smith or Michael Oher are available here. As seen by their move for Terrell Owens, the Bills are planning on competing this year so they must upgrade the tackle position. Their other needs - tight end or defensive end can be targeted with the 28th pick, but there will not be much value available at offensive tackle late in round 1.
12. Denver Broncos – Aaron Maybin, DE/OLB, Penn State
The Broncos recognized their defensive problems and have just about purged their entire 2008 starting lineup. They have added Ronnie Fields to their front and have Marcus Thomas and Kenny Peterson returning, so they are likely to look at a pass rusher or nose tackle here. The Broncos would love to add B.J. Raji here, but he is unlikely to fall. Tyson Jackson would also be a consideration if available. Penn State DE Aaron Maybin, Florida State DE Everette Brown, and Tennessee’s Robert Ayers would all be interesting choices for the 49ers to serve as 3-4 pass rushers. Each is ranked at the top pure pass rusher in the draft by different sources, but Maybin may have the most upside of the group. Look for Denver to select one of the three, or a more complete linebacker such as Brian Cushing here.
13. Washington Redskins – Michael Oher, OT, Ole Miss
The Redskins tried to replace former Pro Bowl right tackle Jon Jansen prior to the 2008 season, but Stephen Heyer was unable to take the position. Ole Miss's Michael Oher has top 5 talent but some off-season issues will push him down the board. He is the type of high upside player that the Redskins have made a history of going after (DeAngelo Hall via FA, Lavar Arrington, etc) The Skins would likely use Chris Samuels on the left side in 2009 while having Oher take over the right side as he gains experience. The Skins could also use a defensive end after releasing Jason Taylor, which would make Everette Brown and Robert Ayers intriguing, but they should be in a great position to select either Michael Oher here at 13. Do not discount the possibility of the Redskins moving up to select Mark Sanchez.
14. New Orleans Saints - Malcolm Jenkins, CB/S, Ohio State
Josh Bullocks flashed potential for the Saints but has struggled in pass coverage and has signed with the Bears. New Orleans signed Darren Sharper, but he was paid backup money and his best days are long gone. Malcolm Jenkins has faced some concerns about his long speed and ability to play corner at the NFL level. However his ball skills and play recognition make him an intriguing fit for a free safety role. There are no pure safeties in the draft worth this spot, but Jenkins should handle the role easily. If the Saints do not opt to select Jenkins, it would appear they would target another position, because a pure cornerback is not a need with the depth they have following the signing of Jabari Greer and strong play from 2008 rookie Tracy Porter. The Saints could be tempted to add Chris Wells here or upgrade at outside linebacker. However if Jenkins falls to them, they would be foolish to pass on him.
15. Houston Texans – Brian Cushing, OLB, USC
The Texans smartly addressed their main need by signing defensive end Antonio Smith away from the Cardinals. They now have a lot of flexibility with their first round pick. Some are pointing towards Chris Wells to join the Texans to pair with 2008 rookie standout Steve Slaton, which may make sense given the depth the Texans have a many positions. Wells would be an interesting pick, but look for the Texans to select versatile USC OLB Brian Cushing to compete with Xavier Adibi for a starting spot. Cushing is a natural strong side linebacker and would continue to upgrade an already strong Texans defense. Defensive line would also be a consideration here.
16. San Diego Chargers – Rey Maualuga, MLB, USC
San Diego would love to add Tyson Jackson here - their biggest need is clearly defensive front after losing Igor Olshanksy. However, it appears unlikely that Jackson will fall this far. The top tier offensive tackles could be interesting, as Jeromey Clary may be best suited to move to guard. However, if the top tackles are off the board, the Chargers are likely to be forced to add a linebacker. Kevin Burnett was signed in the off season, but the Chargers still need to improve their inside linebacking group. Maualuga is tough, physical player who would add an even more physical element to an already scary defense.
1. Detroit Lions - Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia
Coming off the worst season in NFL history, the Lions have a potential franchise changing pick here. The options are numerous, as the Lions need help at virtually every position. 2008 first rounder Gosder Cherilus struggled and does not look like a future NFL left tackle, which would make Jason Smith or Eugene Monroe very enticing here. Aaron Curry just may be the best player in the draft and would finally solve the problem at middle linebacker for the Lions. However, in the end, look for the Lions, particularly Martin Mayhew to reach for the big splash - QB Matthew Stafford. The Lions off-season moves, jettisoning Jon Kitna and not re signing Dan Orvlosky, seems to point to them using this selection to find their new QB. While this may not be the right selection, as there were concerns over Stafford's mediocre collegiate production, his strong arm and outstanding intelligence will lead the Lions to place the faith of their franchise in him.
2. St. Louis Rams - Jason Smith, OT, Baylor
The Rams have needed to find the long term answer at left tackle for several drafts now and have been unable. They missed out on Jake Long last season and had to deal with even more injuries from Orlando Pace. Pace has since been released, causing a gaping hole at left tackle. Their line was dismal in 2008, allowing 45 sacks and forcing Marc Bulger to the sidelines. Jason Smith is an athletic, former tight end with Pro Bowl left tackle ability. Virginia's Eugene Monroe may be a bit more polished, but Smith's upside is hard to ignore here. The Rams may be enticed by Michael Crabtree, as Torry Holt and Drew Bennett will not be back. New head coach Steve Spagnuolo may covet the skill of linebacker Aaron Curry, but he will recognize that selecting Smith is the right thing to do, as the team must rebuild their offensive line to return to prominence.
3. Kansas City Chiefs - B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College
New GM Scott Pioli has been aggressive in retooling the Chiefs, adding Matt Cassel. However, now the Chiefs are left with just one pick in the first 66 picks, so they must make this pick count. Many are pointing towards Wake Forest LB Aaron Curry, who is the best defensive player in the draft and possess the type of versatility that Pioli craves. However, the Chiefs have a huge hole in their front line. 2008 first rounder Glenn Dorsey disappointed and is not the type of two gap defensive tackle that the Chiefs defense needs. Boston College DT B.J. Raji has outstanding bulk and can be an anchor versus the run. The Patriots defense was long build on a strong front three, and the Chiefs need to take advantage of the opportunity to selection Raji here. True nose tackles are almost impossible to find and one as productive as Raji should be the selection. The recent additions of Mike Vrabel, Zach Thomas, and Monty Beisel and attempted conversion of Tamba Hali – while ignoring their front three, makes it even more likely that Raji is the choice.
4. Seattle Seahawks - Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia
The signing of T.J. Houshmandzadeh likely takes Michael Crabtree out of the running for this selection. Walter Jones, the long time stalwart at left tackle for the Seahawks is in his mid thirties and coming off micro fracture surgery. Eugene Monroe is the most NFL ready of the offensive tackles in the draft and is equally adept at run and pass blocking. If the Seahawks take Monroe they can move Jones to the right tackle spot and solidify their entire line. Monroe may lack the upside of Jason Smith, Andre Smith, or Michael Oher, but he comes with a lot less risk. Remember, this is the player that kept 2008 1st round pick Branden Albert at guard while at Virginia. If the Seahawks do not take an offensive tackle, watch out for them to consider adding to their defensive line with Brian Orakpo, despite the presence of star Patrick Kerney.
5. Cleveland Browns - Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest
New head coach Eric Mangini takes over one of the most disappointing teams from the 2008 season and faces the daunting task of rebuilding a defense that struggled greatly versus the run. The Browns investment in their front three did not pay off as expected last year, largely due to ineffective linebacking play. The Browns are hopefully that Alex Hall can develop into a pass rushing threat and still have Kamerion Wimbley, but will be unable to pass on Aaron Curry, the most complete linebacking prospect seen since Lavar Arrington. Curry has the flexibility to play both inside and outside in the Browns scheme and has the type of work ethic to endear him to Mangini. If Curry is gone, look for the Browns to address their linebacking corps with Brian Orakpo, as they simply must improve their defense. Rumors have been circulating that the Browns are itching to trade Braylon Edwards – but trading Edwards then taking Crabtree here is not the right move. Their defense must come first.
6. Cincinnati Bengals - Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas
The Bengals could manage only 17 sacks all of last year and lack a true starter at the defensive end position. Brian Orakpo is a tremendous athlete who has elite strength and put up 11.5 sacks in 2008 for the Longhorns. He uses his strength well to play versus the run as well as the pass, and is the type of high character player that the Bengals need. Some feel that Orakpo could translate to a 3-4 outside linebacker position, but his stiffness means he is likely to be a better player as a traditional defensive end. If B.J. Raji is on the board, the Bengals will have to look hard at the interior linemen, despite signing Tank Johnson. After losing Stacy Andrews, the Bengals may be tempted to grab an offensive tackle, but hopefully have learned their lessons in regard to character and pass on Andre Smith.
7. Oakland Raiders - Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri
Always the wildcard in the draft, the Raiders are in a unique position. They really need to add a wide receiver, as their top receiver had just 22 catches in 2008. Javon Walker is returning at a reduced salary, but the other options are not encouraging. Many will automatically point Texas Tech star Michael Crabtree here, but Al Davis' fascination with speed is well documented. Not only will we not have a forty yard dash time for Michael Crabtree, but his game tape shows that while he has adequate speed, he is not the typical burner that the Raidres crave. Jeremy Maclin ran a 4.40 flat on the slow surface in Indianapolis and is the type of deep threat that Oakland would love to add for JaMarcus Russell. It may seem that this is a shock pick, but it is hard to ignore the Raiders history. Crabtree is still an option if the Raiders want a more complete receiver, but never doubt Al Davis. The Raiders have had some options at offensive tackle, but still the cupboard is very bare at WR.
8. Jacksonville Jaguars - Mark Sanchez, QB, USC
The off-season signings of Tra Thomas and Torry Holt gave the Jags much more flexibility with this pick. Prior to the signings, it appeared likely they would be forced to go for an offensive tackle or a wide receiver here. They could still be very intriguied by Michael Crabtre, who represents a good value and would pair with Holt to give the Jaguars the best receiving duo they have had since the days of Jimmy Smith and Keenan McCardell. However, there are many signs that the Jaguars are in love with USC QB Mark Sanchez. Sanchez may have only started one year at USC but he is probably the most NFL ready of all of the QB prospects in the draft. David Garrard regressed in 2008, which may be the big reason the Jaguars are so interested in upgrading the QB position.
9. Green Bay Packers – Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU
Green Bay is transitioning to a 3-4 defense under new defensive coordinator Dom Capers and are going to use the draft to find pieces to fit the new scheme. B.J. Raji seems like the obvious pick if he is available here – the Packers only had Ryan Pickett at nose tackle and his ability to hold up all season is a question. If Raji is gone, the Packers will look at improving their defensive end position with Tyson Jackson or selecting one of the many pass rushing prospects in the draft. In the end, a successful 3-4 is built up front, and the depth at OLB will allow the Packers to select LSU DE Tyson Jackson here. Jackson is a much better player than often given credit for, and his verstatility in the new scheme will be a huge benefit. The concerns about prospective starters Cullen Jenkins returning from an injury and Johnny Jolly’s criminal trial make Jackson the pick over Robert Ayers, Everette Brown, and Aaron Maybin.
10. San Francisco 49ers – Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
This would be the dream scenario for the 49ers. Their WR position is pretty bare, despite the signing of Brandon Jones. Crabtree is the type of high character impact player that the 49ers need. San Francisco was able to sign Marvel Smith to play right tackle and appear poised to pass on an offensive tackle here. After the firing of Mike Nolan, the 49ers switched to more a pure 3-4 and their defense improved greatly. A finally healthy Manny Lawson and Parys Haralson appear ready to man the outside linebacker spots for the 49ers. Crabtree's foot injury and the signing of Torry Holt by the Jaguars will alllow the 49ers to get their man.
11. Buffalo Bills – Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
Prior to the trade of Jason Peters, it appeared that the Bills would opt for help at TE or DE here. However, they now have a gaping hole on the left side of the line, not just at tackle, but at guard, where Derrick Dockery was released. Langston Walker is not the solution at left tackle and the Bills are going hope that either Andre Smith or Michael Oher are available here. As seen by their move for Terrell Owens, the Bills are planning on competing this year so they must upgrade the tackle position. Their other needs - tight end or defensive end can be targeted with the 28th pick, but there will not be much value available at offensive tackle late in round 1.
12. Denver Broncos – Aaron Maybin, DE/OLB, Penn State
The Broncos recognized their defensive problems and have just about purged their entire 2008 starting lineup. They have added Ronnie Fields to their front and have Marcus Thomas and Kenny Peterson returning, so they are likely to look at a pass rusher or nose tackle here. The Broncos would love to add B.J. Raji here, but he is unlikely to fall. Tyson Jackson would also be a consideration if available. Penn State DE Aaron Maybin, Florida State DE Everette Brown, and Tennessee’s Robert Ayers would all be interesting choices for the 49ers to serve as 3-4 pass rushers. Each is ranked at the top pure pass rusher in the draft by different sources, but Maybin may have the most upside of the group. Look for Denver to select one of the three, or a more complete linebacker such as Brian Cushing here.
13. Washington Redskins – Michael Oher, OT, Ole Miss
The Redskins tried to replace former Pro Bowl right tackle Jon Jansen prior to the 2008 season, but Stephen Heyer was unable to take the position. Ole Miss's Michael Oher has top 5 talent but some off-season issues will push him down the board. He is the type of high upside player that the Redskins have made a history of going after (DeAngelo Hall via FA, Lavar Arrington, etc) The Skins would likely use Chris Samuels on the left side in 2009 while having Oher take over the right side as he gains experience. The Skins could also use a defensive end after releasing Jason Taylor, which would make Everette Brown and Robert Ayers intriguing, but they should be in a great position to select either Michael Oher here at 13. Do not discount the possibility of the Redskins moving up to select Mark Sanchez.
14. New Orleans Saints - Malcolm Jenkins, CB/S, Ohio State
Josh Bullocks flashed potential for the Saints but has struggled in pass coverage and has signed with the Bears. New Orleans signed Darren Sharper, but he was paid backup money and his best days are long gone. Malcolm Jenkins has faced some concerns about his long speed and ability to play corner at the NFL level. However his ball skills and play recognition make him an intriguing fit for a free safety role. There are no pure safeties in the draft worth this spot, but Jenkins should handle the role easily. If the Saints do not opt to select Jenkins, it would appear they would target another position, because a pure cornerback is not a need with the depth they have following the signing of Jabari Greer and strong play from 2008 rookie Tracy Porter. The Saints could be tempted to add Chris Wells here or upgrade at outside linebacker. However if Jenkins falls to them, they would be foolish to pass on him.
15. Houston Texans – Brian Cushing, OLB, USC
The Texans smartly addressed their main need by signing defensive end Antonio Smith away from the Cardinals. They now have a lot of flexibility with their first round pick. Some are pointing towards Chris Wells to join the Texans to pair with 2008 rookie standout Steve Slaton, which may make sense given the depth the Texans have a many positions. Wells would be an interesting pick, but look for the Texans to select versatile USC OLB Brian Cushing to compete with Xavier Adibi for a starting spot. Cushing is a natural strong side linebacker and would continue to upgrade an already strong Texans defense. Defensive line would also be a consideration here.
16. San Diego Chargers – Rey Maualuga, MLB, USC
San Diego would love to add Tyson Jackson here - their biggest need is clearly defensive front after losing Igor Olshanksy. However, it appears unlikely that Jackson will fall this far. The top tier offensive tackles could be interesting, as Jeromey Clary may be best suited to move to guard. However, if the top tackles are off the board, the Chargers are likely to be forced to add a linebacker. Kevin Burnett was signed in the off season, but the Chargers still need to improve their inside linebacking group. Maualuga is tough, physical player who would add an even more physical element to an already scary defense.