Walterfootball.com Mock Drafts - Page 4

**The Franchise** · 11-10-2008, 03:06 PM

November 6th 2008.

1st round - Kansas City Chiefs: Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas
If you're not a Chiefs fan, chances are you won't know this. OK, guess how many sacks Kansas City's defense has as a whole this season.

Fifteen? Way off. Ten? Nope. Five? Not even!

The Chiefs have four sacks on the year! Four freaking sacks! They foolishly traded away Jared Allen prior to the 2008 Draft, while moving Tamba Hali to right end failed miserably. Hali, now back at left end, needs a dominant pass-rusher across from him to once again play at his 2007 level.

That man can be Brian Orakpo. Through nine games, Orakpo has 13.5 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks, as he's established himself as the premier defensive end in this draft class. Kansas City's young defense would greatly benefit from having him rushing the opposing quarterback.

Quarterback was an option, but Tyler Thigpen has played extremely well the past two weeks, so the Chiefs could have something with him.

2nd round - Kansas City Chiefs: Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida
Napoleon Harris was Kansas City's middle linebacker when the season began. That failed miserably, as Harris was cut a few weeks ago. Pat Thomas took Harris' spot, and based on Kansas City's defensive rankings - click here for accurate NFL Run, Pass Defensive Rankings - it hasn't exactly worked out too well.

3rd round - Kansas City Chiefs: Derrick Williams, WR, Penn State
If Tyler Thigpen keeps improving and proves to be Kansas City's quarterback of the future, he'll need another receiver to throw to besides Dwayne Bowe. Bowe and Derrick Williams would be an awesome receiver combination, assuming the latter pans out.

**Tribal Warfare** · 01-02-2009, 11:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by aturnis

Update -

3. Kansas City Chiefs: Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas
Still Brian Orakpo. I've seen some mocks with a quarterback going here, but since I don't think Sam Bradford will declare, that's not really an option.

Not that it should be anyway - Tyler Thigpen has done a really remarkable job this year, commanding Kansas City's offense to 21.6 points per game ever since taking over as the full-time starter on Oct. 26. I know he's guilty of a lot of turnovers, but this was essentially his rookie year. He'll continue to get better.

Besides, if you have a lot of holes like the Chiefs do, why would you upgrade one of your strengths? It makes no sense, especially considering how bad the defense is. Kansas City had just 10 sacks on the year!

The Chiefs foolishly traded away Jared Allen prior to the 2008 Draft, while moving Tamba Hali to right end failed miserably. Hali, now back at left end, needs a dominant pass-rusher across from him to once again play at his 2007 level.

That man can be Brian Orakpo. In 11 games, Orakpo had 15.5 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks, as he's established himself as the premier defensive end in this draft class. Kansas City's young defense would greatly benefit from having him rushing the opposing quarterback.

By the way, I saw that one of ESPN's draft guys had Aaron Maybin, a defensive end from Penn State, going in this slot. That's great, except Maybin already told the media and coaching staff he's coming back for his redshirt junior year. Maybin could ultimately declare, and if he does, he'll go top five. For now, he won't be in my mock.

I know for a fact that this guy just looks at the fantasy football stats, and doesn't review actual game film concerning Thigpen.

Ultra Peanut · 01-03-2009, 09:19 AM

Anyone calling QB a strength couldn't possibly be watching Thiggy.

**OnTheWarpath15** · 01-08-2009, 05:36 PM

New for 1/8/2009:

Bradford

Unger

Beckwith

**The Franchise** · 01-10-2009, 12:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OnTheWarpath58

New for 1/8/2009:

Bradford

Unger

Beckwith

God that's horrible.

**The Franchise** · 01-10-2009, 12:32 PM

There is another mock draft on there that has us picking Brian Orakpo and Percy Harvin.

**Tribal Warfare** · 01-10-2009, 01:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OnTheWarpath58

New for 1/8/2009:

Bradford

Unger

Beckwith

I E-mailed "Walter" and told him if Sanchez or Stafford declares that player will be KC's pick. Then he went on how Thigpen had a great year, The Chiefs don't "need a QB". I essentially bitch slapped that he should stop looking at the fantasy stats and start watching game film.

milkman · 01-11-2009, 07:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pestilenceaf23

God that's horrible.

I agree.

Based on how this mock falls, I think I'd go with Matt Shaunessy in the 2nd and Antoine Caldwell in the 3rd.

Bambi · 01-12-2009, 10:47 PM

Why do you guys care about this mock draft?

It looks stupid.

**The Franchise** · 01-16-2009, 10:14 AM

Updated 01/16/09

3. Mark Sanchez, QB, USC
With Sam Bradford going back to school, this selection has become a lot more difficult to predict.

I have a feeling that a lot of mocks in the 2009 NFL Mock Draft Database will have Aaron Curry going here. I don't see that happening. The last time a player who wasn't a quarterback, running back, receiver, offensive tackle, defensive end or under tackle was chosen in the top three selections was LaVar Arrington (Redskins, 2000). I think Scott Pioli is a slightly better drafter than Daniel Snyder, don't you think?

Assuming the Chiefs go to a 3-4 with Pioli, Curry would be an inside linebacker for them. With trading down nearly impossible at No. 3 (no owner will want to trade up and pay tons of money to an unproven player in this economy), it's safe to say Curry won't be chosen.

So, that leaves us with the following options:

Best offensive tackle available
Michael Crabtree
Chris Wells/Knowshon Moreno
Brian Orakpo/Everette Brown
Mark Sanchez

With Larry Johnson still on the books, I think you can eliminate Wells and Moreno. Wide receiver isn't a prime need, so the Crabtree selection becomes unlikely. A left tackle could happen - the Chiefs would move Branden Albert inside.

Orakpo is probably out because he struggled against Alex Boone in the Doritos Fiesta Bowl. Brown is a stronger possibility if he has a great performance at the Combine. The Chiefs are likely to switch to the 3-4, and Brown, a nasty pass rusher coming off a huge year, would fit in perfectly.

However, I'm going with Sanchez. A new regime almost always equals a new quarterback. Sanchez is a hot commodity, coming off a brilliant performance at the Rose Bowl, sponsored by Kraft. The knock on him is the lack of experience, but going 28-of-35 for 413 yards and four touchdowns against Penn State pretty much quelled those concerns.

By the way, I'd like to say that this 2009 NFL Mock Draft is based on what I think will happen; not on what should happen.

If I were running the Chiefs, I'd continue to go with Tyler Thigpen. Thigpen did a remarkable job as the full-time quarterback, commanding Kansas City's offense to 21.6 points per game since Oct. 26. I know he was guilty of a lot of turnovers, but this was essentially his rookie year. He also had a weak running game and a pedestrian offensive line. He'll continue to get better.

34. Clint Sintim, DE/OLB, Virginia
With the Chiefs likely to make the jump to the 3-4, Scott Pioli will be busy hunting for players who can fit that scheme this April. Why not begin with Clint Sintim to help an anemic pass rush that managed a grand total of 10 sacks in 2008?
Pick change; previously Sam Bradford, QB

67. Jonathan Luigs, C, Arkansas
More than half of Kansas City's roster needs to be upgraded. You can include the center position, currently occupied by Rudy Niswanger.

**The Franchise** · 01-22-2009, 10:53 AM

Updated.....only change is in the 3rd round. I'd be ****ing happy with this draft.

3. Mark Sanchez, QB, USC
JAN. 22 UPDATE: This isn't as much of a lock as Matt Stafford going first or the Seahawks taking Michael Crabtree, but I think there's a pretty good chance that the Chiefs select Mark Sanchez. A new regime usually means a new quarterback, and Sanchez is way too talented to pass up.

Some may argue that new general manager Scott Pioli has never taken a quarterback this high. That may be true, but it's fairly obvious why - he had Drew Bledsoe and Tom Brady in New England. Why would he use a first-rounder on a signal caller? I doubt Pioli read Andy Reid's NFL Drafting for Dummies.

All the talk regarding New England's pick last season was that Pioli and Bill Belichick never spent a top-10 choice on a linebacker. Well, they drafted Jerod Mayo, didn't they?

PREVIOUS UPDATES: With Sam Bradford going back to school, this selection has become a lot more difficult to predict.

I have a feeling that a lot of mocks in the 2009 NFL Mock Draft Database will have Aaron Curry going here. I don't see that happening. The last time a player who wasn't a quarterback, running back, receiver, offensive tackle, defensive end or under tackle was chosen in the top three selections was LaVar Arrington (Redskins, 2000). I think Scott Pioli is a slightly better drafter than Daniel Snyder, don't you think?

Assuming the Chiefs go to a 3-4 with Pioli, Curry would be an inside linebacker for them. With trading down nearly impossible at No. 3 (no owner will want to trade up and pay tons of money to an unproven player in this economy), it's safe to say Curry won't be chosen.

So, that leaves us with the following options:

Best offensive tackle available
Michael Crabtree
Chris Wells/Knowshon Moreno
Brian Orakpo/Everette Brown
Mark Sanchez

With Larry Johnson still on the books, I think you can eliminate Wells and Moreno. Wide receiver isn't a prime need, so the Crabtree selection becomes unlikely. A left tackle could happen - the Chiefs would move Branden Albert inside.

Orakpo is probably out because he struggled against Alex Boone in the Doritos Fiesta Bowl. Brown is a stronger possibility if he has a great performance at the Combine. The Chiefs are likely to switch to the 3-4, and Brown, a nasty pass rusher coming off a huge year, would fit in perfectly.

However, I'm going with Sanchez. A new regime almost always equals a new quarterback. Sanchez is a hot commodity, coming off a brilliant performance at the Rose Bowl, sponsored by Kraft. The knock on him is the lack of experience, but going 28-of-35 for 413 yards and four touchdowns against Penn State pretty much quelled those concerns.

By the way, I'd like to say that this 2009 NFL Mock Draft is based on what I think will happen; not on what should happen.

If I were running the Chiefs, I'd continue to go with Tyler Thigpen. Thigpen did a remarkable job as the full-time quarterback, commanding Kansas City's offense to 21.6 points per game since Oct. 26. I know he was guilty of a lot of turnovers, but this was essentially his rookie year. He also had a weak running game and a pedestrian offensive line. He'll continue to get better.

34. Clint Sintim, DE/OLB, Virginia
With the Chiefs likely to make the jump to the 3-4, Scott Pioli will be busy hunting for players who can fit that scheme this April. Why not begin with Clint Sintim to help an anemic pass rush that managed a grand total of 10 sacks in 2008?

67. Antoine Caldwell, C, Alabama
More than half of Kansas City's roster needs to be upgraded. You can include the center position, currently occupied by Rudy Niswanger.

theorangelion · 01-24-2009, 06:46 PM

Brian Orakpo is looking better and better

Mecca · 01-25-2009, 01:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by theorangelion

Brian Orakpo is looking better and better

Yea I'm sorry Brian Orakpo isn't worth a pick that high.

**The Franchise** · 01-28-2009, 10:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pestilenceaf23

Updated.....only change is in the 3rd round. I'd be ****ing happy with this draft.

3. Mark Sanchez, QB, USC
JAN. 22 UPDATE: This isn't as much of a lock as Matt Stafford going first or the Seahawks taking Michael Crabtree, but I think there's a pretty good chance that the Chiefs select Mark Sanchez. A new regime usually means a new quarterback, and Sanchez is way too talented to pass up.

Some may argue that new general manager Scott Pioli has never taken a quarterback this high. That may be true, but it's fairly obvious why - he had Drew Bledsoe and Tom Brady in New England. Why would he use a first-rounder on a signal caller? I doubt Pioli read Andy Reid's NFL Drafting for Dummies.

All the talk regarding New England's pick last season was that Pioli and Bill Belichick never spent a top-10 choice on a linebacker. Well, they drafted Jerod Mayo, didn't they?

PREVIOUS UPDATES: With Sam Bradford going back to school, this selection has become a lot more difficult to predict.

I have a feeling that a lot of mocks in the 2009 NFL Mock Draft Database will have Aaron Curry going here. I don't see that happening. The last time a player who wasn't a quarterback, running back, receiver, offensive tackle, defensive end or under tackle was chosen in the top three selections was LaVar Arrington (Redskins, 2000). I think Scott Pioli is a slightly better drafter than Daniel Snyder, don't you think?

Assuming the Chiefs go to a 3-4 with Pioli, Curry would be an inside linebacker for them. With trading down nearly impossible at No. 3 (no owner will want to trade up and pay tons of money to an unproven player in this economy), it's safe to say Curry won't be chosen.

So, that leaves us with the following options:

Best offensive tackle available
Michael Crabtree
Chris Wells/Knowshon Moreno
Brian Orakpo/Everette Brown
Mark Sanchez

With Larry Johnson still on the books, I think you can eliminate Wells and Moreno. Wide receiver isn't a prime need, so the Crabtree selection becomes unlikely. A left tackle could happen - the Chiefs would move Branden Albert inside.

Orakpo is probably out because he struggled against Alex Boone in the Doritos Fiesta Bowl. Brown is a stronger possibility if he has a great performance at the Combine. The Chiefs are likely to switch to the 3-4, and Brown, a nasty pass rusher coming off a huge year, would fit in perfectly.

However, I'm going with Sanchez. A new regime almost always equals a new quarterback. Sanchez is a hot commodity, coming off a brilliant performance at the Rose Bowl, sponsored by Kraft. The knock on him is the lack of experience, but going 28-of-35 for 413 yards and four touchdowns against Penn State pretty much quelled those concerns.

By the way, I'd like to say that this 2009 NFL Mock Draft is based on what I think will happen; not on what should happen.

If I were running the Chiefs, I'd continue to go with Tyler Thigpen. Thigpen did a remarkable job as the full-time quarterback, commanding Kansas City's offense to 21.6 points per game since Oct. 26. I know he was guilty of a lot of turnovers, but this was essentially his rookie year. He also had a weak running game and a pedestrian offensive line. He'll continue to get better.

34. Clint Sintim, DE/OLB, Virginia
With the Chiefs likely to make the jump to the 3-4, Scott Pioli will be busy hunting for players who can fit that scheme this April. Why not begin with Clint Sintim to help an anemic pass rush that managed a grand total of 10 sacks in 2008?

67. Antoine Caldwell, C, Alabama
More than half of Kansas City's roster needs to be upgraded. You can include the center position, currently occupied by Rudy Niswanger.

Updated as of November 28th....and it's still this.

**The Franchise** · 01-28-2009, 11:06 AM

FWIW.....here is the 1st round.

Detroit Lions: Matt Stafford, QB, Georgia
JAN. 28 UPDATE: Matt McGuire said it best on one of his radio appearances this weekend: "Pre-order your Stafford jerseys, Lions fans." With no consensus No. 1 tackle and a new regime in town, this will be a quarterback.

How about trading down? I've received a few e-mails about this, but it's not happening. First of all, it takes way too many resources to move up to the top selection. And second, given the economy we're in, no owner wants to pay an obscene amount of money to an unproven player.

JAN. 22 UPDATE: No surprise, but I still have Matt Stafford No. 1. I received an e-mail or two asking why I don't have Mark Sanchez going first. Matt McGuire did a great job explaining this in his blog. Stafford's arm is much more powerful than Sanchez's, so he presents the Lions with more upside. Also, Stafford has much more starting experience than Sanchez. After going 0-16, the Lions can't afford to whiff here, and taking a signal caller with one real year of starting experience is really risky.

JAN. 15 UPDATE: With Sam Bradford electing to come back for his redshirt junior season at Oklahoma, the Lions might as well begin printing up Matt Stafford jerseys. Stafford's a near-lock to be chosen first overall.

DEC. 25 UPDATE: Despite numerous e-mails from Lions fans insisting that the correct course of action would be drafting an offensive tackle, I'm still calling for a quarterback. Detroit needs a face for their franchise. They can't get a quarterback with Dallas' selection, but they'll be able to grab a tackle with that pick.

Also, Lions owner William Darth Clay Sidious Ford doesn't really care about winning. He just wants money. What brings in more money than a rookie signal caller? Everyone in Detroit will be lining up to buy the new Matt Stafford jersey, especially if he appears to be as promising as Matt Ryan.

PREVIOUS UPDATES: I'm not saying a left tackle isn't a possibility, but like the Falcons last year, the Lions need a face for their franchise. Right now, that face is Matt Millen, even though he was fired a few months ago. When people think about the Detroit franchise, they think about how Millen helped ruin it.

The Lions can get a quality tackle with Dallas' choice or in the No. 33 slot. Assuming most of the junior quarterbacks remain in school, they won't have the chance to secure a top-rated signal-caller in the 2009 NFL Draft.

St. Louis Rams: Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
This pick could be Eugene Monroe. But I'd like to make the case for Michael Crabtree.

There is no consensus No. 1 tackle. A few months ago, Michael Oher was the guy. Questions arose about his consistency in pass blocking, and he fell off. Next, Andre Smith was the top tackle. When concerns about his weight and pass blocking came to light, his stock dropped as well. Now, despite not doing anything and sitting out the Senior Bowl, Monroe has somehow elevated up to No. 2 overall status? Sounds a bit fishy to me. For all we know, people might starting finding things wrong with him pretty soon. Jason Smith, Mike Mayock's top-rated tackle, could then move into this slot.

I don't think there is any offensive tackle in this class worthy of being drafted second overall. If any of these four were in the 2008 NFL Draft class, would they be behind Jake Long and Ryan Clady? Maybe.

Michael Crabtree is the top prospect in this class. Not only is he a dynamic and physically gifted receiver, he also fills a need.

Now, I know the Rams are in more of a dire need of an upgrade at tackle, but they really could use a No. 1 receiver. Torry Holt's play really fell off in 2008, and there's a very good chance the regressing former Pro Bowler, who turns 33 in June, could be cut or traded. Donnie Avery had a very good rookie season, but at 5-11, 190, he can't be the top wideout.

Furthermore, financial concerns also have to be an issue. Our economy is worse than it's been in about three-quarters of a century. NFL tickets are being slashed by at least 10 percent. The Rams, who are still relatively new to St. Louis, need a hot ticket.

That would be Crabtree. He'd fill the seats. He would sell jerseys much better than any offensive lineman. And he would bring some excitement to a city that just watched its football team finish a depressing 2-14.

Pick change; previously Andre Smith, OT

Kansas City Chiefs: Mark Sanchez, QB, USC
JAN. 28 UPDATE: I've gotten a few e-mails asking me why I don't think Aaron Curry will be the guy here. Check out the top-three NFL Draft pick trends since 1998 for the answer. I'm not saying there's no chance that Curry won't be taken - the NFL Draft is known for being wildly unpredictable - but Sanchez is more than likely the choice here.

JAN. 22 UPDATE: This isn't as much of a lock as Matt Stafford going first or the Seahawks taking Michael Crabtree, but I think there's a pretty good chance that the Chiefs select Mark Sanchez. A new regime usually means a new quarterback, and Sanchez is way too talented to pass up.

Some may argue that new general manager Scott Pioli has never taken a quarterback this high. That may be true, but it's fairly obvious why - he had Drew Bledsoe and Tom Brady in New England. Why would he use a first-rounder on a signal caller? I doubt Pioli read Andy Reid's NFL Drafting for Dummies.

All the talk regarding New England's pick last season was that Pioli and Bill Belichick never spent a top-10 choice on a linebacker. Well, they drafted Jerod Mayo, didn't they?

PREVIOUS UPDATES: With Sam Bradford going back to school, this selection has become a lot more difficult to predict.

I have a feeling that a lot of mocks in the 2009 NFL Mock Draft Database will have Aaron Curry going here. I don't see that happening. The last time a player who wasn't a quarterback, running back, receiver, offensive tackle, defensive end or under tackle was chosen in the top three selections was LaVar Arrington (Redskins, 2000). I think Scott Pioli is a slightly better drafter than Daniel Snyder, don't you think?

Assuming the Chiefs go to a 3-4 with Pioli, Curry would be an inside linebacker for them. With trading down nearly impossible at No. 3 (no owner will want to trade up and pay tons of money to an unproven player in this economy), it's safe to say Curry won't be chosen.

So, that leaves us with the following options:

Best offensive tackle available
Michael Crabtree
Chris Wells/Knowshon Moreno
Brian Orakpo/Everette Brown
Mark Sanchez

With Larry Johnson still on the books, I think you can eliminate Wells and Moreno. Wide receiver isn't a prime need, so the Crabtree selection becomes unlikely. A left tackle could happen - the Chiefs would move Branden Albert inside.

Orakpo is probably out because he struggled against Alex Boone in the Doritos Fiesta Bowl. Brown is a stronger possibility if he has a great performance at the Combine. The Chiefs are likely to switch to the 3-4, and Brown, a nasty pass rusher coming off a huge year, would fit in perfectly.

However, I'm going with Sanchez. A new regime almost always equals a new quarterback. Sanchez is a hot commodity, coming off a brilliant performance at the Rose Bowl, sponsored by Kraft. The knock on him is the lack of experience, but going 28-of-35 for 413 yards and four touchdowns against Penn State pretty much quelled those concerns.

By the way, I'd like to say that this 2009 NFL Mock Draft is based on what I think will happen; not on what should happen.

If I were running the Chiefs, I'd continue to go with Tyler Thigpen. Thigpen did a remarkable job as the full-time quarterback, commanding Kansas City's offense to 21.6 points per game since Oct. 26. I know he was guilty of a lot of turnovers, but this was essentially his rookie year. He also had a weak running game and a pedestrian offensive line. He'll continue to get better.

Seattle Seahawks: Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia
The Seahawks will take Michael Crabtree if he's available here. Bobby Engram, 36, will be hitting free agency. Deion Branch, who is always hurt, could be a cap casualty. Nate Burleson stinks and is coming off a torn ACL. The rest of the wideouts are terrible. If the Seahawks don't address the position, they can have fun struggling offensively next year.

However, I have Crabtree going to the Rams for all the reasons I listed above. If Crabtree isn't available, it's fairly obvious that the Seahawks will take the top left tackle available to eventually supplant the 35-year-old Walter Jones.

Pick change; previously Michael Crabtree, WR

Cleveland Browns: Aaron Curry, ILB, Wake Forest
With the hiring of Eric Mangini and the continued use of the 3-4 defense, it looks like this selection will come down to one of three players: Brian Orakpo, Aaron Curry or Everette Brown.

The Browns need help throughout their linebacking corps, so either one of the three would make sense.

I'm saying it'll be Curry, who will be an instant upgrade in the middle of the 3-4. Orakpo didn't play well in the Doritos Fiesta Bowl, while Brown at No. 5 will be a bit of a reach unless he blows everyone away at the Combine.

Cincinnati Bengals: Michael Oher, OT, Ole Miss
I have trouble seeing this selection as anything but a left tackle. The oft-injured Levi Jones, Cincinnati's current player at the position, hasn't played well in two years and could be cut this spring. Stacy Andrews, meanwhile, is a free agent and could be replaced by Anthony Collins.

With Eugene Monroe off the board, it looks like this selection will be between Michael Oher and Jason Smith. Either makes sense, but I feel as though Oher is more talented. Regardless, the Bengals' front needs help; it surrendered 51 sacks in 2008.

Pick change; previously Eugene Monroe, OT

Oakland Raiders: Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
If Michael Crabtree somehow makes it past St. Louis, Kansas City, Seattle, Cleveland and Cincinnati, which is very unlikely, the Raiders will draft him. Unfortunately for the Silver and Black faithful, that's not very realistic.

Oakland needs to improve its offensive line. Mario Henderson played well at the end of the year, so Andre Smith will fit in nicely as a punishing run-blocker on the right side.

One guy I'm keeping a watch on is Everette Brown. I know Brown is strictly 3-4, but since when have Al Davis' draft picks made sense? If Brown dazzles with a great 40 at the Combine, Undead Al might go with the Florida State defensive end.

Pick change; previously Michael Oher, OT

Jacksonville Jaguars: Jason Smith, OT, Baylor
David Garrard's interception total has soared from three to 13 in just one year. But don't blame him. He was knocked down more than any other quarterback this season. And according to the sacks totals allowed by NFL left tackles, Khalif Barnes was one of the league's worst, surrendering 7.5 sacks.

Jacksonville must take care of its franchise quarterback. The team desperately needs to upgrade Garrard's blind side. Jason Smith, Mike Mayock's No. 1 offensive tackle, makes too much sense at this spot.

Green Bay Packers: B.J. Raji, NT, Boston College
With the hiring of Dom Capers, the Packers will be switching to a 3-4. The centerpiece to any 3-4 is a monstrous, run-stuffing nose tackle - something Green Bay currently lacks.

Matt McGuire has done an excellent job with his 2009 Senior Bowl Updates. In them, you can read all about how B.J. Raji has debacled opposing offensive linemen all week. In the actual Senior Bowl, Raji proved to be unblockable. Raji has really risen his stock, and I really don't see him making it past No. 9. He could actually go higher than this. If he's not here, an alternative would be Everette Brown.

San Francisco 49ers: Everette Brown, DE/OLB, Florida State
Manny Lawson has been a bust in terms of his ability to get to the quarterback. While Parys Haralson evolved into a dependable pass-rusher, Lawson has compiled six career sacks in 32 games. Terrible.

It's time for the 49ers to move on in terms of finding a dynamic sack artist. Everette Brown would be a nice solution; he fits the scheme and he finished the year with 21.5 TFL and 13.5 sacks.

Buffalo Bills: Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas
One of the reasons Buffalo collapsed from a 5-1 record and maintained the same draft position it had in April 2008 is its lacking pass rush. The team finished with 24 sacks on the year, and no player had more than four. I know Aaron Schobel missed most of the season, but the Bills had similar problems even when he was in the lineup.

Though he somewhat struggled in the Doritos Fiesta Bowl, Brian Orakpo had a brilliant senior campaign, finishing with 15.5 TFL and 10.5 sacks in 11 games.

Denver Broncos: Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC
Josh McDaniels was just hired as the head coach, and he brought on Mike Nolan as his defensive coordinator. Nolan will implement his 3-4 defense, meaning the Broncos will be busy scouring for the right personnel to fit that scheme in the next two drafts.

They can start by selecting Rey Maualuga, the top pure 3-4 inside linebacker on the board. Maybe he can help the team rank outside the bottom five in defense for the first time in ages.

Washington Redskins: Eben Britton, OT, Arizona
The Redskins have major problems at right tackle. Jon Jansen, who turns 33 in January, is playing on his last legs. Jansen will be back with the team, but it's clear that Washington will be looking for a major upgrade at the position.

Eben Britton would fit in well on the right side, and could potentially slide over to the blind side once Samuels' time is up. I'm aware that Britton is a bit of a reach here, and there is a chance Washington could trade down. However, teams have reached for offensive tackles recently. Look at Sam Baker and Duane Brown last year. The position is in such high demand that some of the teams are just that desperate.

New Orleans Saints: Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State
Cornerback isn't New Orleans' greatest need, especially with Tracy Porter coming back to the lineup. However, it's still a need that has to be addressed, and Malcolm Jenkins, a definite top-10 prospect, is the best player on the board. James Laurinaitis is also an option, but his stock has slipped a bit.

Pick change; previously James Laurinaitis, ILB

Houston Texans: Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois
This could be a spot where the Texans trade down. Their greatest needs this offseason are strong safety, guard, nose tackle and a 4-3 end to complement Mario Williams. Taking the best player at each of those four positions would be reaching.

If Houston can't find a trading partner, they may look at Vontae Davis. You can never have enough talented corners, and it's not like the Texans couldn't use an upgrade at the position. Davis is probably the top player available anyway, so I think this is Houston's best option considering the circumstances.

Pick change; previously William Moore, SS

**The Franchise** · 01-28-2009, 11:07 AM

San Diego Chargers: Chris Wells, RB, Ohio State
It's amazing how much can change in half a year. In August, LaDainian Tomlinson was going first in nine out of 10 fantasy football drafts. Now, he and general manager A.J. Smith hate each other so much that Smith removed LT2 as his friend on Facebook. RotoWorld, meanwhile, reported that several NFL executives don't believe LT2 is even worth a Day 1 selection at this point.

With Darren Sproles also hitting free agency, the Chargers may look to secure a top-tier running back in April's draft.

New York Jets: Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia
This definitely isn't New York's greatest need, but Knowshon Moreno could be too good to pass up with the top two corners off the board. Thomas Jones just had a great year, but the fact remains that he turns 31 in August.

Pick change; previously Malcolm Jenkins, CB

Chicago Bears: Larry English, DE, Northern Illinois
Larry English is made for the 3-4, but I think he could definitely work well in a Tampa-2 4-3 scheme. English's stock is on fire after an impressive showing at the Senior Bowl.

The Bears really need help at receiver, and with mega-talents like Jeremy Maclin and Percy Harvin on the board, choosing one of them is a possibility. But I doubt Chicago does that. The Bears will upgrade their perennial strengths - the offensive line and defense - before anything else.

It sounds weird to say this, but the Bears need help at defensive end. Prior to playing the Rams, who count more as a Big XII team than an NFL squad, starters Alex Brown and Adewale Ogunleye had just five combined sacks in 10 games. Mark Anderson, meanwhile, recorded only one sack. Chicago needs to upgrade its pass rush.

Pick change; previously Michael Johnson, DE

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas State
Josh Freeman didn't exactly have the best senior year, but his size and arm strength could propel him into the first round, just like Joe Flacco last year.

If Jon Gruden were still coaching, I couldn't see this happening. Gruden, while a very good coach, has proven over the years that he refuses to work with young quarterbacks.

Well, there's a new regime in Tampa Bay, and a new regime usually means a new quarterback.

Pick change; previously Knowshon Moreno, RB

Detroit Lions: William Beatty, OT, Connecticut
Is this a bit of a reach? I think so. But as we saw last year, the offensive tackle position is in such high demand that teams don't really have a choice but to target those players early. See Sam Baker and Duane Brown as prime examples.

The Lions surrendered 52 sacks in 2008. They desperately need a dominant left tackle, allowing Jeff Backus to slide inside.

Philadelphia Eagles: Alex Mack, C, California
With Brent Celek's 10-catch performance in the NFC Championship, Andy Reid can focus on upgrading the offensive line in the first round.

Alex Mack is the top lineman on the board. As Matt McGuire pointed out in his outstanding 2009 Senior Bowl Updates, Mack has distanced himself from Max Unger in terms of being the No. 1 center on the board.

Center is not a weakness for the Eagles, but it's certainly not a strength. Getting a potential All-Pro like Mack would really bolster Philadelphia's pedestrian rushing attack - assuming Big Red actually decides to run the ball.

Minnesota Vikings: D.J. Moore, CB, Vanderbilt
I really want to give the Vikings an offensive tackle, but with all of the top-tier players at that position off the board, Minnesota could look to address its second greatest need, which is cornerback. Cedric Griffin has had an up-and-down season, and Minnesota simply needs more consistency in its defensive backfield.

If Tampa Bay doesn't take Josh Freeman, this is another spot where he'll be considered. It wouldn't surprise me at all if Minnesota went that direction in an effort to find an upgrade for the horrendous Tarvaris Jackson.

Pick change; previously Vontae Davis, CB

New England Patriots: Aaron Maybin, DE/OLB, Penn State
Bill Belichick added a young inside linebacker to his roster last April. He may look to upgrade the exterior this time around.

The Patriots struggled to put pressure on the quarterback at times (31 sacks) and Mike Vrabel, though still dependable, will be 34 in August. Something has to be done about this.

Atlanta Falcons: Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State
Could you imagine how lethal Atlanta's offense would be if the team somehow acquired a dynamic tight end? Matt Ryan would be unstoppable.

With Brandon Pettigrew going as high as No. 11 in some mocks, the Falcons will be very fortunate if they manage to get the top-rated tight end down here.

Miami Dolphins: Duke Robinson, G, Oklahoma
The Dolphins can take care of a huge hole at left guard by drafting Duke Robinson in this spot. With Jake Long and Robinson on the left side, Miami would boast one of the elite rushing attacks in the league.

Baltimore Ravens: Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri
Mark Clayton has started playing really well down the stretch, but with Derrick Mason, who just turned 35, a year away from hitting free agency, it's time the Ravens begin developing their next No. 1 receiver for Joe Flacco.

Indianapolis Colts: Peria Jerry, DT, Ole Miss
Both sides of Indianapolis' run defense has to be addressed. Defensive tackle has always been a problem for the Colts, especially after the Ed Johnson marijuana scandal. I could see the Colts taking the best available player in terms of a running back, defensive tackle or offensive tackle.

Philadelphia Eagles: Louis Delmas, FS, Western Michigan
Brian Dawkins is adored by all Eagles fans, but the future Hall of Fame free safety turns 36 in October. Even if Dawkins re-signs with Philadelphia, the team will need to find his successor soon because he's somewhat of a liability in coverage. It's clear that Quintin Demps isn't the answer after his horrific performance in the NFC Championship.

Louis Delmas has really shined at the Senior Bowl and put himself into first-round consideration.

New York Giants: James Laurinaitis, ILB, Ohio State
With solid talents like James Laurinaitis, William Moore and Michael Johnson slipping, the Giants have plenty of options.

The best player available of those three is Laurinaitis, who could really help out New York's linebacking corps. This season could be Antonio Pierce's last in New York, while the weakside position is in need of an upgrade.

Wide receiver is also an option, but this draft is so deep at the position that the Giants can take someone like Kenny Britt or Hakeem Nicks in the second round.

Pick change; previously Paul Kruger, DE

Tennessee Titans: Percy Harvin, WR, Florida
Yeah, I know... the Titans don't draft receivers. Hey, miracles can happen, and maybe they'll be embarrassed because everyone made fun of them for not taking one last year.

In all seriousness, Tennessee has proven in the past that they look for skill-position players with great 40 times. Percy Harvin would qualify for that.

Arizona Cardinals: LeSean McCoy, RB, Pittsburgh
The Cardinals were somehow able to run the ball during their unexpected playoff surge, but that doesn't change the fact that they need an upgrade in the backfield. Edgerrin James' days in Arizona are numbered, while Tim Hightower does too much dancing around.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU
With tons of talented offensive linemen off the board, the Steelers may choose to add the best available player to their defensive line. That would be Tyson Jackson, who will eventually take Aaron Smith's spot in the lineup. Smith turns 33 in April.

11-10-2008, 03:06 PM
The Franchise Most Valuable Villain Join Date: Dec 2006 Casino cash: $2065047	Walterfootball.com Mock Drafts November 6th 2008. 1st round - Kansas City Chiefs: Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas If you're not a Chiefs fan, chances are you won't know this. OK, guess how many sacks Kansas City's defense has as a whole this season. Fifteen? Way off. Ten? Nope. Five? Not even! The Chiefs have four sacks on the year! Four freaking sacks! They foolishly traded away Jared Allen prior to the 2008 Draft, while moving Tamba Hali to right end failed miserably. Hali, now back at left end, needs a dominant pass-rusher across from him to once again play at his 2007 level. That man can be Brian Orakpo. Through nine games, Orakpo has 13.5 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks, as he's established himself as the premier defensive end in this draft class. Kansas City's young defense would greatly benefit from having him rushing the opposing quarterback. Quarterback was an option, but Tyler Thigpen has played extremely well the past two weeks, so the Chiefs could have something with him. 2nd round - Kansas City Chiefs: Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida Napoleon Harris was Kansas City's middle linebacker when the season began. That failed miserably, as Harris was cut a few weeks ago. Pat Thomas took Harris' spot, and based on Kansas City's defensive rankings - click here for accurate NFL Run, Pass Defensive Rankings - it hasn't exactly worked out too well. 3rd round - Kansas City Chiefs: Derrick Williams, WR, Penn State If Tyler Thigpen keeps improving and proves to be Kansas City's quarterback of the future, he'll need another receiver to throw to besides Dwayne Bowe. Bowe and Derrick Williams would be an awesome receiver combination, assuming the latter pans out.
Posts: 92,316

01-03-2009, 09:19 AM	#47
Ultra Peanut v^V^v^V^v^V^ Join Date: Aug 2001 Location: Holland* Casino cash: $10005177	Anyone calling QB a strength couldn't possibly be watching Thiggy. __________________
Posts: 39,518

01-08-2009, 05:36 PM	#48
OnTheWarpath15 MVP Join Date: Sep 2005 Casino cash: $2051115	New for 1/8/2009: Bradford Unger Beckwith
Posts: 60,758

01-10-2009, 12:32 PM	#50
The Franchise Most Valuable Villain Join Date: Dec 2006 Casino cash: $2065047	There is another mock draft on there that has us picking Brian Orakpo and Percy Harvin.
Posts: 92,316

01-12-2009, 10:47 PM	#53
Bambi Banned Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: New York City Casino cash: $10036993	Why do you guys care about this mock draft? It looks stupid.
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01-16-2009, 10:14 AM	#54
The Franchise Most Valuable Villain Join Date: Dec 2006 Casino cash: $2065047	Updated 01/16/09 3. Mark Sanchez, QB, USC With Sam Bradford going back to school, this selection has become a lot more difficult to predict. I have a feeling that a lot of mocks in the 2009 NFL Mock Draft Database will have Aaron Curry going here. I don't see that happening. The last time a player who wasn't a quarterback, running back, receiver, offensive tackle, defensive end or under tackle was chosen in the top three selections was LaVar Arrington (Redskins, 2000). I think Scott Pioli is a slightly better drafter than Daniel Snyder, don't you think? Assuming the Chiefs go to a 3-4 with Pioli, Curry would be an inside linebacker for them. With trading down nearly impossible at No. 3 (no owner will want to trade up and pay tons of money to an unproven player in this economy), it's safe to say Curry won't be chosen. So, that leaves us with the following options: Best offensive tackle available Michael Crabtree Chris Wells/Knowshon Moreno Brian Orakpo/Everette Brown Mark Sanchez With Larry Johnson still on the books, I think you can eliminate Wells and Moreno. Wide receiver isn't a prime need, so the Crabtree selection becomes unlikely. A left tackle could happen - the Chiefs would move Branden Albert inside. Orakpo is probably out because he struggled against Alex Boone in the Doritos Fiesta Bowl. Brown is a stronger possibility if he has a great performance at the Combine. The Chiefs are likely to switch to the 3-4, and Brown, a nasty pass rusher coming off a huge year, would fit in perfectly. However, I'm going with Sanchez. A new regime almost always equals a new quarterback. Sanchez is a hot commodity, coming off a brilliant performance at the Rose Bowl, sponsored by Kraft. The knock on him is the lack of experience, but going 28-of-35 for 413 yards and four touchdowns against Penn State pretty much quelled those concerns. By the way, I'd like to say that this 2009 NFL Mock Draft is based on what I think will happen; not on what should happen. If I were running the Chiefs, I'd continue to go with Tyler Thigpen. Thigpen did a remarkable job as the full-time quarterback, commanding Kansas City's offense to 21.6 points per game since Oct. 26. I know he was guilty of a lot of turnovers, but this was essentially his rookie year. He also had a weak running game and a pedestrian offensive line. He'll continue to get better. 34. Clint Sintim, DE/OLB, Virginia With the Chiefs likely to make the jump to the 3-4, Scott Pioli will be busy hunting for players who can fit that scheme this April. Why not begin with Clint Sintim to help an anemic pass rush that managed a grand total of 10 sacks in 2008? Pick change; previously Sam Bradford, QB 67. Jonathan Luigs, C, Arkansas More than half of Kansas City's roster needs to be upgraded. You can include the center position, currently occupied by Rudy Niswanger.
Posts: 92,316

01-22-2009, 10:53 AM	#55
The Franchise Most Valuable Villain Join Date: Dec 2006 Casino cash: $2065047	Updated.....only change is in the 3rd round. I'd be **ing happy with this draft. 3. Mark Sanchez, QB, USC JAN. 22 UPDATE: This isn't as much of a lock as Matt Stafford going first or the Seahawks taking Michael Crabtree, but I think there's a pretty good chance that the Chiefs select Mark Sanchez. A new regime usually means a new quarterback, and Sanchez is way too talented to pass up. Some may argue that new general manager Scott Pioli has never taken a quarterback this high. That may be true, but it's fairly obvious why - he had Drew Bledsoe and Tom Brady in New England. Why would he use a first-rounder on a signal caller? I doubt Pioli read Andy Reid's NFL Drafting for Dummies. All the talk regarding New England's pick last season was that Pioli and Bill Belichick never spent a top-10 choice on a linebacker. Well, they drafted Jerod Mayo, didn't they? PREVIOUS UPDATES: With Sam Bradford going back to school, this selection has become a lot more difficult to predict. I have a feeling that a lot of mocks in the 2009 NFL Mock Draft Database will have Aaron Curry going here. I don't see that happening. The last time a player who wasn't a quarterback, running back, receiver, offensive tackle, defensive end or under tackle was chosen in the top three selections was LaVar Arrington (Redskins, 2000). I think Scott Pioli is a slightly better drafter than Daniel Snyder, don't you think? Assuming the Chiefs go to a 3-4 with Pioli, Curry would be an inside linebacker for them. With trading down nearly impossible at No. 3 (no owner will want to trade up and pay tons of money to an unproven player in this economy), it's safe to say Curry won't be chosen. So, that leaves us with the following options: Best offensive tackle available Michael Crabtree Chris Wells/Knowshon Moreno Brian Orakpo/Everette Brown Mark Sanchez With Larry Johnson still on the books, I think you can eliminate Wells and Moreno. Wide receiver isn't a prime need, so the Crabtree selection becomes unlikely. A left tackle could happen - the Chiefs would move Branden Albert inside. Orakpo is probably out because he struggled against Alex Boone in the Doritos Fiesta Bowl. Brown is a stronger possibility if he has a great performance at the Combine. The Chiefs are likely to switch to the 3-4, and Brown, a nasty pass rusher coming off a huge year, would fit in perfectly. However, I'm going with Sanchez. A new regime almost always equals a new quarterback. Sanchez is a hot commodity, coming off a brilliant performance at the Rose Bowl, sponsored by Kraft. The knock on him is the lack of experience, but going 28-of-35 for 413 yards and four touchdowns against Penn State pretty much quelled those concerns. By the way, I'd like to say that this 2009 NFL Mock Draft is based on what I think will happen; not on what should happen. If I were running the Chiefs, I'd continue to go with Tyler Thigpen. Thigpen did a remarkable job as the full-time quarterback, commanding Kansas City's offense to 21.6 points per game since Oct. 26. I know he was guilty of a lot of turnovers, but this was essentially his rookie year. He also had a weak running game and a pedestrian offensive line. He'll continue to get better. 34. Clint Sintim, DE/OLB, Virginia With the Chiefs likely to make the jump to the 3-4, Scott Pioli will be busy hunting for players who can fit that scheme this April. Why not begin with Clint Sintim to help an anemic pass rush that managed a grand total of 10 sacks in 2008? 67. Antoine Caldwell, C, Alabama** More than half of Kansas City's roster needs to be upgraded. You can include the center position, currently occupied by Rudy Niswanger.
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01-24-2009, 06:46 PM	#56
theorangelion Starter Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: n00b, Texas Casino cash: $10004900	Brian Orakpo is looking better and better
Posts: 154

01-28-2009, 11:06 AM	#59
The Franchise Most Valuable Villain Join Date: Dec 2006 Casino cash: $2065047	FWIW.....here is the 1st round. Detroit Lions: Matt Stafford, QB, Georgia JAN. 28 UPDATE: Matt McGuire said it best on one of his radio appearances this weekend: "Pre-order your Stafford jerseys, Lions fans." With no consensus No. 1 tackle and a new regime in town, this will be a quarterback. How about trading down? I've received a few e-mails about this, but it's not happening. First of all, it takes way too many resources to move up to the top selection. And second, given the economy we're in, no owner wants to pay an obscene amount of money to an unproven player. JAN. 22 UPDATE: No surprise, but I still have Matt Stafford No. 1. I received an e-mail or two asking why I don't have Mark Sanchez going first. Matt McGuire did a great job explaining this in his blog. Stafford's arm is much more powerful than Sanchez's, so he presents the Lions with more upside. Also, Stafford has much more starting experience than Sanchez. After going 0-16, the Lions can't afford to whiff here, and taking a signal caller with one real year of starting experience is really risky. JAN. 15 UPDATE: With Sam Bradford electing to come back for his redshirt junior season at Oklahoma, the Lions might as well begin printing up Matt Stafford jerseys. Stafford's a near-lock to be chosen first overall. DEC. 25 UPDATE: Despite numerous e-mails from Lions fans insisting that the correct course of action would be drafting an offensive tackle, I'm still calling for a quarterback. Detroit needs a face for their franchise. They can't get a quarterback with Dallas' selection, but they'll be able to grab a tackle with that pick. Also, Lions owner William Darth Clay Sidious Ford doesn't really care about winning. He just wants money. What brings in more money than a rookie signal caller? Everyone in Detroit will be lining up to buy the new Matt Stafford jersey, especially if he appears to be as promising as Matt Ryan. PREVIOUS UPDATES: I'm not saying a left tackle isn't a possibility, but like the Falcons last year, the Lions need a face for their franchise. Right now, that face is Matt Millen, even though he was fired a few months ago. When people think about the Detroit franchise, they think about how Millen helped ruin it. The Lions can get a quality tackle with Dallas' choice or in the No. 33 slot. Assuming most of the junior quarterbacks remain in school, they won't have the chance to secure a top-rated signal-caller in the 2009 NFL Draft. St. Louis Rams: Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech This pick could be Eugene Monroe. But I'd like to make the case for Michael Crabtree. There is no consensus No. 1 tackle. A few months ago, Michael Oher was the guy. Questions arose about his consistency in pass blocking, and he fell off. Next, Andre Smith was the top tackle. When concerns about his weight and pass blocking came to light, his stock dropped as well. Now, despite not doing anything and sitting out the Senior Bowl, Monroe has somehow elevated up to No. 2 overall status? Sounds a bit fishy to me. For all we know, people might starting finding things wrong with him pretty soon. Jason Smith, Mike Mayock's top-rated tackle, could then move into this slot. I don't think there is any offensive tackle in this class worthy of being drafted second overall. If any of these four were in the 2008 NFL Draft class, would they be behind Jake Long and Ryan Clady? Maybe. Michael Crabtree is the top prospect in this class. Not only is he a dynamic and physically gifted receiver, he also fills a need. Now, I know the Rams are in more of a dire need of an upgrade at tackle, but they really could use a No. 1 receiver. Torry Holt's play really fell off in 2008, and there's a very good chance the regressing former Pro Bowler, who turns 33 in June, could be cut or traded. Donnie Avery had a very good rookie season, but at 5-11, 190, he can't be the top wideout. Furthermore, financial concerns also have to be an issue. Our economy is worse than it's been in about three-quarters of a century. NFL tickets are being slashed by at least 10 percent. The Rams, who are still relatively new to St. Louis, need a hot ticket. That would be Crabtree. He'd fill the seats. He would sell jerseys much better than any offensive lineman. And he would bring some excitement to a city that just watched its football team finish a depressing 2-14. Pick change; previously Andre Smith, OT Kansas City Chiefs: Mark Sanchez, QB, USC JAN. 28 UPDATE: I've gotten a few e-mails asking me why I don't think Aaron Curry will be the guy here. Check out the top-three NFL Draft pick trends since 1998 for the answer. I'm not saying there's no chance that Curry won't be taken - the NFL Draft is known for being wildly unpredictable - but Sanchez is more than likely the choice here. JAN. 22 UPDATE: This isn't as much of a lock as Matt Stafford going first or the Seahawks taking Michael Crabtree, but I think there's a pretty good chance that the Chiefs select Mark Sanchez. A new regime usually means a new quarterback, and Sanchez is way too talented to pass up. Some may argue that new general manager Scott Pioli has never taken a quarterback this high. That may be true, but it's fairly obvious why - he had Drew Bledsoe and Tom Brady in New England. Why would he use a first-rounder on a signal caller? I doubt Pioli read Andy Reid's NFL Drafting for Dummies. All the talk regarding New England's pick last season was that Pioli and Bill Belichick never spent a top-10 choice on a linebacker. Well, they drafted Jerod Mayo, didn't they? PREVIOUS UPDATES: With Sam Bradford going back to school, this selection has become a lot more difficult to predict. I have a feeling that a lot of mocks in the 2009 NFL Mock Draft Database will have Aaron Curry going here. I don't see that happening. The last time a player who wasn't a quarterback, running back, receiver, offensive tackle, defensive end or under tackle was chosen in the top three selections was LaVar Arrington (Redskins, 2000). I think Scott Pioli is a slightly better drafter than Daniel Snyder, don't you think? Assuming the Chiefs go to a 3-4 with Pioli, Curry would be an inside linebacker for them. With trading down nearly impossible at No. 3 (no owner will want to trade up and pay tons of money to an unproven player in this economy), it's safe to say Curry won't be chosen. So, that leaves us with the following options: Best offensive tackle available Michael Crabtree Chris Wells/Knowshon Moreno Brian Orakpo/Everette Brown Mark Sanchez With Larry Johnson still on the books, I think you can eliminate Wells and Moreno. Wide receiver isn't a prime need, so the Crabtree selection becomes unlikely. A left tackle could happen - the Chiefs would move Branden Albert inside. Orakpo is probably out because he struggled against Alex Boone in the Doritos Fiesta Bowl. Brown is a stronger possibility if he has a great performance at the Combine. The Chiefs are likely to switch to the 3-4, and Brown, a nasty pass rusher coming off a huge year, would fit in perfectly. However, I'm going with Sanchez. A new regime almost always equals a new quarterback. Sanchez is a hot commodity, coming off a brilliant performance at the Rose Bowl, sponsored by Kraft. The knock on him is the lack of experience, but going 28-of-35 for 413 yards and four touchdowns against Penn State pretty much quelled those concerns. By the way, I'd like to say that this 2009 NFL Mock Draft is based on what I think will happen; not on what should happen. If I were running the Chiefs, I'd continue to go with Tyler Thigpen. Thigpen did a remarkable job as the full-time quarterback, commanding Kansas City's offense to 21.6 points per game since Oct. 26. I know he was guilty of a lot of turnovers, but this was essentially his rookie year. He also had a weak running game and a pedestrian offensive line. He'll continue to get better. Seattle Seahawks: Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia The Seahawks will take Michael Crabtree if he's available here. Bobby Engram, 36, will be hitting free agency. Deion Branch, who is always hurt, could be a cap casualty. Nate Burleson stinks and is coming off a torn ACL. The rest of the wideouts are terrible. If the Seahawks don't address the position, they can have fun struggling offensively next year. However, I have Crabtree going to the Rams for all the reasons I listed above. If Crabtree isn't available, it's fairly obvious that the Seahawks will take the top left tackle available to eventually supplant the 35-year-old Walter Jones. Pick change; previously Michael Crabtree, WR Cleveland Browns: Aaron Curry, ILB, Wake Forest With the hiring of Eric Mangini and the continued use of the 3-4 defense, it looks like this selection will come down to one of three players: Brian Orakpo, Aaron Curry or Everette Brown. The Browns need help throughout their linebacking corps, so either one of the three would make sense. I'm saying it'll be Curry, who will be an instant upgrade in the middle of the 3-4. Orakpo didn't play well in the Doritos Fiesta Bowl, while Brown at No. 5 will be a bit of a reach unless he blows everyone away at the Combine. Cincinnati Bengals: Michael Oher, OT, Ole Miss I have trouble seeing this selection as anything but a left tackle. The oft-injured Levi Jones, Cincinnati's current player at the position, hasn't played well in two years and could be cut this spring. Stacy Andrews, meanwhile, is a free agent and could be replaced by Anthony Collins. With Eugene Monroe off the board, it looks like this selection will be between Michael Oher and Jason Smith. Either makes sense, but I feel as though Oher is more talented. Regardless, the Bengals' front needs help; it surrendered 51 sacks in 2008. Pick change; previously Eugene Monroe, OT Oakland Raiders: Andre Smith, OT, Alabama If Michael Crabtree somehow makes it past St. Louis, Kansas City, Seattle, Cleveland and Cincinnati, which is very unlikely, the Raiders will draft him. Unfortunately for the Silver and Black faithful, that's not very realistic. Oakland needs to improve its offensive line. Mario Henderson played well at the end of the year, so Andre Smith will fit in nicely as a punishing run-blocker on the right side. One guy I'm keeping a watch on is Everette Brown. I know Brown is strictly 3-4, but since when have Al Davis' draft picks made sense? If Brown dazzles with a great 40 at the Combine, Undead Al might go with the Florida State defensive end. Pick change; previously Michael Oher, OT Jacksonville Jaguars: Jason Smith, OT, Baylor David Garrard's interception total has soared from three to 13 in just one year. But don't blame him. He was knocked down more than any other quarterback this season. And according to the sacks totals allowed by NFL left tackles, Khalif Barnes was one of the league's worst, surrendering 7.5 sacks. Jacksonville must take care of its franchise quarterback. The team desperately needs to upgrade Garrard's blind side. Jason Smith, Mike Mayock's No. 1 offensive tackle, makes too much sense at this spot. Green Bay Packers: B.J. Raji, NT, Boston College With the hiring of Dom Capers, the Packers will be switching to a 3-4. The centerpiece to any 3-4 is a monstrous, run-stuffing nose tackle - something Green Bay currently lacks. Matt McGuire has done an excellent job with his 2009 Senior Bowl Updates. In them, you can read all about how B.J. Raji has debacled opposing offensive linemen all week. In the actual Senior Bowl, Raji proved to be unblockable. Raji has really risen his stock, and I really don't see him making it past No. 9. He could actually go higher than this. If he's not here, an alternative would be Everette Brown. San Francisco 49ers: Everette Brown, DE/OLB, Florida State Manny Lawson has been a bust in terms of his ability to get to the quarterback. While Parys Haralson evolved into a dependable pass-rusher, Lawson has compiled six career sacks in 32 games. Terrible. It's time for the 49ers to move on in terms of finding a dynamic sack artist. Everette Brown would be a nice solution; he fits the scheme and he finished the year with 21.5 TFL and 13.5 sacks. Buffalo Bills: Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas One of the reasons Buffalo collapsed from a 5-1 record and maintained the same draft position it had in April 2008 is its lacking pass rush. The team finished with 24 sacks on the year, and no player had more than four. I know Aaron Schobel missed most of the season, but the Bills had similar problems even when he was in the lineup. Though he somewhat struggled in the Doritos Fiesta Bowl, Brian Orakpo had a brilliant senior campaign, finishing with 15.5 TFL and 10.5 sacks in 11 games. Denver Broncos: Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC Josh McDaniels was just hired as the head coach, and he brought on Mike Nolan as his defensive coordinator. Nolan will implement his 3-4 defense, meaning the Broncos will be busy scouring for the right personnel to fit that scheme in the next two drafts. They can start by selecting Rey Maualuga, the top pure 3-4 inside linebacker on the board. Maybe he can help the team rank outside the bottom five in defense for the first time in ages. Washington Redskins: Eben Britton, OT, Arizona The Redskins have major problems at right tackle. Jon Jansen, who turns 33 in January, is playing on his last legs. Jansen will be back with the team, but it's clear that Washington will be looking for a major upgrade at the position. Eben Britton would fit in well on the right side, and could potentially slide over to the blind side once Samuels' time is up. I'm aware that Britton is a bit of a reach here, and there is a chance Washington could trade down. However, teams have reached for offensive tackles recently. Look at Sam Baker and Duane Brown last year. The position is in such high demand that some of the teams are just that desperate. New Orleans Saints: Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State Cornerback isn't New Orleans' greatest need, especially with Tracy Porter coming back to the lineup. However, it's still a need that has to be addressed, and Malcolm Jenkins, a definite top-10 prospect, is the best player on the board. James Laurinaitis is also an option, but his stock has slipped a bit. Pick change; previously James Laurinaitis, ILB Houston Texans: Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois This could be a spot where the Texans trade down. Their greatest needs this offseason are strong safety, guard, nose tackle and a 4-3 end to complement Mario Williams. Taking the best player at each of those four positions would be reaching. If Houston can't find a trading partner, they may look at Vontae Davis. You can never have enough talented corners, and it's not like the Texans couldn't use an upgrade at the position. Davis is probably the top player available anyway, so I think this is Houston's best option considering the circumstances. Pick change; previously William Moore, SS
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01-28-2009, 11:07 AM	#60
The Franchise Most Valuable Villain Join Date: Dec 2006 Casino cash: $2065047	San Diego Chargers: Chris Wells, RB, Ohio State It's amazing how much can change in half a year. In August, LaDainian Tomlinson was going first in nine out of 10 fantasy football drafts. Now, he and general manager A.J. Smith hate each other so much that Smith removed LT2 as his friend on Facebook. RotoWorld, meanwhile, reported that several NFL executives don't believe LT2 is even worth a Day 1 selection at this point. With Darren Sproles also hitting free agency, the Chargers may look to secure a top-tier running back in April's draft. New York Jets: Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia This definitely isn't New York's greatest need, but Knowshon Moreno could be too good to pass up with the top two corners off the board. Thomas Jones just had a great year, but the fact remains that he turns 31 in August. Pick change; previously Malcolm Jenkins, CB Chicago Bears: Larry English, DE, Northern Illinois Larry English is made for the 3-4, but I think he could definitely work well in a Tampa-2 4-3 scheme. English's stock is on fire after an impressive showing at the Senior Bowl. The Bears really need help at receiver, and with mega-talents like Jeremy Maclin and Percy Harvin on the board, choosing one of them is a possibility. But I doubt Chicago does that. The Bears will upgrade their perennial strengths - the offensive line and defense - before anything else. It sounds weird to say this, but the Bears need help at defensive end. Prior to playing the Rams, who count more as a Big XII team than an NFL squad, starters Alex Brown and Adewale Ogunleye had just five combined sacks in 10 games. Mark Anderson, meanwhile, recorded only one sack. Chicago needs to upgrade its pass rush. Pick change; previously Michael Johnson, DE Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas State Josh Freeman didn't exactly have the best senior year, but his size and arm strength could propel him into the first round, just like Joe Flacco last year. If Jon Gruden were still coaching, I couldn't see this happening. Gruden, while a very good coach, has proven over the years that he refuses to work with young quarterbacks. Well, there's a new regime in Tampa Bay, and a new regime usually means a new quarterback. Pick change; previously Knowshon Moreno, RB Detroit Lions: William Beatty, OT, Connecticut Is this a bit of a reach? I think so. But as we saw last year, the offensive tackle position is in such high demand that teams don't really have a choice but to target those players early. See Sam Baker and Duane Brown as prime examples. The Lions surrendered 52 sacks in 2008. They desperately need a dominant left tackle, allowing Jeff Backus to slide inside. Philadelphia Eagles: Alex Mack, C, California With Brent Celek's 10-catch performance in the NFC Championship, Andy Reid can focus on upgrading the offensive line in the first round. Alex Mack is the top lineman on the board. As Matt McGuire pointed out in his outstanding 2009 Senior Bowl Updates, Mack has distanced himself from Max Unger in terms of being the No. 1 center on the board. Center is not a weakness for the Eagles, but it's certainly not a strength. Getting a potential All-Pro like Mack would really bolster Philadelphia's pedestrian rushing attack - assuming Big Red actually decides to run the ball. Minnesota Vikings: D.J. Moore, CB, Vanderbilt I really want to give the Vikings an offensive tackle, but with all of the top-tier players at that position off the board, Minnesota could look to address its second greatest need, which is cornerback. Cedric Griffin has had an up-and-down season, and Minnesota simply needs more consistency in its defensive backfield. If Tampa Bay doesn't take Josh Freeman, this is another spot where he'll be considered. It wouldn't surprise me at all if Minnesota went that direction in an effort to find an upgrade for the horrendous Tarvaris Jackson. Pick change; previously Vontae Davis, CB New England Patriots: Aaron Maybin, DE/OLB, Penn State Bill Belichick added a young inside linebacker to his roster last April. He may look to upgrade the exterior this time around. The Patriots struggled to put pressure on the quarterback at times (31 sacks) and Mike Vrabel, though still dependable, will be 34 in August. Something has to be done about this. Atlanta Falcons: Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State Could you imagine how lethal Atlanta's offense would be if the team somehow acquired a dynamic tight end? Matt Ryan would be unstoppable. With Brandon Pettigrew going as high as No. 11 in some mocks, the Falcons will be very fortunate if they manage to get the top-rated tight end down here. Miami Dolphins: Duke Robinson, G, Oklahoma The Dolphins can take care of a huge hole at left guard by drafting Duke Robinson in this spot. With Jake Long and Robinson on the left side, Miami would boast one of the elite rushing attacks in the league. Baltimore Ravens: Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri Mark Clayton has started playing really well down the stretch, but with Derrick Mason, who just turned 35, a year away from hitting free agency, it's time the Ravens begin developing their next No. 1 receiver for Joe Flacco. Indianapolis Colts: Peria Jerry, DT, Ole Miss Both sides of Indianapolis' run defense has to be addressed. Defensive tackle has always been a problem for the Colts, especially after the Ed Johnson marijuana scandal. I could see the Colts taking the best available player in terms of a running back, defensive tackle or offensive tackle. Philadelphia Eagles: Louis Delmas, FS, Western Michigan Brian Dawkins is adored by all Eagles fans, but the future Hall of Fame free safety turns 36 in October. Even if Dawkins re-signs with Philadelphia, the team will need to find his successor soon because he's somewhat of a liability in coverage. It's clear that Quintin Demps isn't the answer after his horrific performance in the NFC Championship. Louis Delmas has really shined at the Senior Bowl and put himself into first-round consideration. New York Giants: James Laurinaitis, ILB, Ohio State With solid talents like James Laurinaitis, William Moore and Michael Johnson slipping, the Giants have plenty of options. The best player available of those three is Laurinaitis, who could really help out New York's linebacking corps. This season could be Antonio Pierce's last in New York, while the weakside position is in need of an upgrade. Wide receiver is also an option, but this draft is so deep at the position that the Giants can take someone like Kenny Britt or Hakeem Nicks in the second round. Pick change; previously Paul Kruger, DE Tennessee Titans: Percy Harvin, WR, Florida Yeah, I know... the Titans don't draft receivers. Hey, miracles can happen, and maybe they'll be embarrassed because everyone made fun of them for not taking one last year. In all seriousness, Tennessee has proven in the past that they look for skill-position players with great 40 times. Percy Harvin would qualify for that. Arizona Cardinals: LeSean McCoy, RB, Pittsburgh The Cardinals were somehow able to run the ball during their unexpected playoff surge, but that doesn't change the fact that they need an upgrade in the backfield. Edgerrin James' days in Arizona are numbered, while Tim Hightower does too much dancing around. Pittsburgh Steelers: Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU With tons of talented offensive linemen off the board, the Steelers may choose to add the best available player to their defensive line. That would be Tyson Jackson, who will eventually take Aaron Smith's spot in the lineup. Smith turns 33 in April.
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