Football USA Today: Ranking the decision makers: Who is best at the NFL draft? - Page 2

**Tribal Warfare** · 04-30-2010, 04:31 PM

Ranking the decision makers: Who is best at the NFL draft?

Yahoo! Buzz
By Nate Davis, USA TODAY
So which franchise really stands the best chance to reap the most from its rookies now that the 2010 NFL draft has concluded? USA TODAY ranked the 20 league personnel executives who have been on the job for at least three years with their current team (the exception being Scott Pioli) to try and get a better idea as to who scores touchdowns in April, who settles for field goals and who coughs it up.

REPORT CARD: Grading the 2010 NFL draft class

1A. Bill Belichick, head coach/el jefe supremo, New England Patriots— Little point in arguing after he transformed a franchise that seemed to be in decline into a three-time Super Bowl champion virtually overnight. Clearly Belichick learned a lot after the five putrid drafts the Cleveland Browns produced during his tenure there in the 1990s. New England has become known for its deft ability to amass quality picks and find excellent players later in the process who won't come with the price tag of a top-10 pick. Belichick has made seven second-round picks over the last two drafts and picked up an extra Round 2 pick next year after extracting it from the Carolina Panthers for a low third-round pick last Saturday. Key contributors such as receiver Deion Branch, defensive end Jarvis Green, tackle Matt Light and cornerback Asante Samuel all came at pick 48 or later. But Belichick knows how to find first-round stars, too, including 2008 defensive rookie of the year Jerod Mayo and Pro Bowlers Logan Mankins, Richard Seymour and Vince Wilfork.

• Best pick: Tom Brady— The Patriots admit they got lucky finding him in the sixth round in 2000, but at least they were smarter than the 30 other teams that also passed on him multiple times. Probably the best value pick in the history of the NFL.

• Worst pick: Chad Jackson— The 36th pick of the 2006 draft only caught 13 passes for New England.

1B. Scott Pioli, GM, Kansas City Chiefs— He and Belichick are essentially inextricable when it comes to New England's ascendancy. It's too early to assess Pioli's tenure in K.C., though last weekend's haul looks to be among the best of the spring. But the Patriots' success on the personnel side is just as much a credit to Pioli's eye for talent as Belichick's. And the litany of players they plucked from college aside, Pioli and Belichick were masters of using picks as currency for established stars with depressed value (Corey Dillon, Randy Moss) and gems other teams didn't appreciate (Wes Welker). After a recent spotty draft record, the Chiefs were in desperate need of a draft craftsman like Pioli.

• Best pick: Matt Cassel— He barely played at USC, but Pioli took a flier on him in the seventh round of the 2005 draft anyway. Cassel proved in 2008 he can play at a Pro Bowl level, something Pioli is banking he will do for the Chiefs.

• Worst pick: Laurence Maroney— The 2006 first-rounder has never rushed for as many as 900 yards and probably never will for the Patriots, who have opted not to make him a featured back.

**DeezNutz** · 04-30-2010, 05:54 PM

Well, I'm convinced, and I'm curious how anyone could question this guy's opinion.

After all, is anyone else a writer for USA Today? Didn't think so.

ChiefsCountry · 04-30-2010, 05:55 PM

Well they did draft the best QB, or lucked into it. They still aren't as good overall as Newsome or Pollian.

Marcellus · 04-30-2010, 05:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tribal Warfare

It will be based on what the article stated was Pioli's "best pick" turns out. Some in the media believe that Cassel is the real deal because he had the luxury operating a championship caliber offense, while others have cited he's "Scott Mitchell 2.0". If Cassel turns out to be legit, and not a one year wonder Pioli will looked to be a brilliant GM. If he isn't correct, Scott will be viewed as a stubborn and egotistical by putting everything on a career QB that had one good year that he drafted.

The end result regardless of the QB is will determine the outcome of Pioli's perception.

If it takes 5 years or 7 years and we win a SB,even with another QB, nobody will give a real shit about what happened his 1st or 2nd year. except a few here.

Key thing is there needs to be continuous improvement and a SB eventually, at least a SB appearance.

If he makes no major improvement he will be justifiably be criticized.

Marcellus · 04-30-2010, 05:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DeezNutz

Well, I'm convinced, and I'm curious how anyone could question this guy's opinion.

After all, is anyone else a writer for USA Today? Didn't think so.

Well, he nailed this one, I hope.

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/footb...-preview_N.htm

By Nate Davis, USA TODAY
USA TODAY kicks off its draft series by analyzing the defensive backs available in the April 22-24 NFL draft. Also in this article: Cream of the crop among defensive backs and teams in need.

Eric Berry doesn't want to be painted into a corner any more than he wants to be painting in a corner.

Asked where he hopes to play in the NFL, the former two-time All-American from Tennessee equivocates. "Really, I like playing safety," he says of his natural position. "(But) I enjoy playing nickel, too, because I can also come on blitzes and play bump-and-run."

It's that kind of versatility (he was also occasionally deployed at linebacker by the Vols) and willingness to play multiple roles that's made Berry a top prospect in the 2010 draft class.

"He may be the best all-around athlete in the draft," says ESPN draft analyst Todd McShay. And his value may be appreciating as the pro game evolves.

"I do think (safety) is becoming more important," says McShay, "as tight ends are becoming a bigger part of the offense and they're spreading out with three, four receivers. … You gotta find guys that can cover, period, whether you classify them as a corner or a safety.

"I wouldn't have a problem with Eric Berry going in the top five picks."

An outcome that seems a very real possibility.

Berry spoke to USA TODAY on Wednesday night after flying into Cleveland for a meeting with the Browns. He's also visited the Washington Redskins, Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles and still has an appointment with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Of those five teams, only the Eagles don't own a top-seven pick, though with five selections among the first 87, they could move up the board to get Berry if they choose.

"I've kind of been star struck," says Berry. "Meeting coaches and players like (Redskins defensive backs) DeAngelo Hall and LaRon Landry— it's been a great experience."

Berry's natural leadership is yet another attribute of a player who was elected a Tennessee captain as a sophomore and junior.

"Players gravitate towards him," says longtime NFL defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin, who reprised the same role for one year in Knoxville before following his son Lane, the Vols' former head coach, to USC. "He's a total package, a great leader."

Berry credits his father, James (a former Tennessee running back who was good enough to get a tryout with Tom Landry's Dallas Cowboys), with nurturing his leadership skills.

"I stepped up and started speaking my freshman season," says Eric. "I was credible, accountable and producing on the field."

He also says his father fueled his NFL aspirations by employing him as a painter during hot summers in their native Georgia.

"It was some of the hardest work I've ever done in my life," Berry laughs. "I said, 'I'm not doing this.' "

So he went to work honing his football skills instead.

"I used Ed Reed's tactics at free safety and (mimic) his ball instincts, and I used Troy Polamalu's aggressiveness — I love the way he brings players down," says Berry, who's drawn comparisons to both all-pros.

Monte Kiffin, who encouraged Berry, 21, to go pro early, utilized his star somewhat like Polamalu, moving him all over the field. But Berry also had production similar to Reed's, returning three of his 14 career thefts for touchdowns and falling 7 yards shy of matching Terrell Buckley's NCAA record 501 interception return yards.

Given his multi-faceted assignments, Kiffin believes Berry can be plugged into any NFL defense and start from Day 1.

"System won't matter," says Kiffin, an advocate of the Tampa 2 in the pros. "You can't go wrong taking the guy."

Kiffin also lauds Berry's studiousness and off-field dedication.

"The film room is my best friend," says Berry.

No surprise from a guy who'd rather brush up on his next opponent than have a paintbrush in his hand.

"I have to pinch myself," he says. "It's a lifelong dream. I have to ask myself, is this really happening?"

**Tribal Warfare** · 04-30-2010, 06:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Marcellus

The end result regardless of the QB is will determine the outcome of Pioli's perception.

If it takes 5 years or 7 years and we win a SB,even with another QB, nobody will give a real shit about what happened his 1st or 2nd year. except a few here.

Key thing is there needs to be continuous improvement and a SB eventually, at least a SB appearance.

If he makes no major improvement he will be justifiably be criticized.

It's all additive because the QB situation with Cassel/Pioli will determine their fates concerning the franchise's chances to the SB. With the 5 to 7 years to an SB talk? It's quite fitting that someone on the BB, has anointed Pioli as the new Carl Peterson. this is year 2 next year KC should make a serious push in the playoffs.If they are not then it is Pioli fault for not having the tools necessary for the team to succeed.

Marcellus · 04-30-2010, 06:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tribal Warfare

It's all additive because the QB situation with Cassel/Pioli will determine their fates concerning the franchise's chances to the SB. With the 5 to 7 years to an SB talk? It's quite fitting that someone on the BB, has anointed Pioli as the new Carl Peterson. this is year 2 next year KC should make a serious push in the playoffs.If they are not then it is Pioli fault for not having the tools necessary for the team to succeed.

Who anointed Pioli the next Carl? Not me. We need a playoff contending team soon. I dint say 5 years to the playoffs. I am just being realistic.

Yea you can catch fire in a bottle like Miami did (Playoffs)or like AZ did (SB) 2 years ago but that's just not likely.Miami went backwards after that as did AZ. Now that Warner has retired they are screwed. I want consistency.
When you are where we are, it will take a lot of time to get the talent level to where it needs to be to be an annual contender even if you draft extremely well.

**Tribal Warfare** · 04-30-2010, 06:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Marcellus

Who anointed Pioli the next Carl? Not me. We need a playoff contending team soon. I dint say 5 years to the playoffs. I am just being realistic.

Dude, you are suffering "maybe next year syndrome". If results don't occur in a concise time period it won' happen. We shouldn't have to wait half a ****ing decade to expect results.

Marcellus · 04-30-2010, 06:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tribal Warfare

Dude, you are suffering "maybe next year syndrome". If results don't occur in a concise time period it won' happen. We shouldn't have to wait half a ****ing decade to expect results.

READ AGAIN. I never said we shouldn't expect to see immediate results but if you expect a SB next year or the year after that is NUTS.

What concise time period do you have in your mind to make this team a real SB contender?

**Tribal Warfare** · 04-30-2010, 06:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Marcellus

READ AGAIN. I never said we shouldn't expect to see immediate results but if you expect a SB next year or the year after that is NUTS.

What concise time period do you have in your mind to make this team a real SB contender?

3 years, just like the average NFL player's career. That's when the players drafted have matured, the veterans the team signed are in place, and have the coaching staff they prefer.

Marcellus · 04-30-2010, 06:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tribal Warfare

3 years, just like the average NFL player's career. That's when the players drafted have matured, the veterans the team signed are in place, and have the coaching staff they prefer.

I hope you are right but lets say it takes until year 3 to get to the AFC Championship and we lose a close game. We play well in year 4 but come up short, year 5 e go to the SB and lose.

Considering where we are right now is that failure? Keep in mind I am not asking for this scenario. If we go to a SB and lose I will be as pissed as anybody.

philfree · 04-30-2010, 06:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tribal Warfare

Dude, you are suffering "maybe next year syndrome". If results don't occur in a concise time period it won' happen. We shouldn't have to wait half a ****ing decade to expect results.

I always hate the concept of a 5 year rebuild. We should be a .500 team this year and a playoff team next. If Cassel isn't getting it done this year I think we'll look else where for a QB. If he's playing like he did when he threw the nine picks in three games or whatever it was Croyle will get a shot. Haley and Wies aren't scared to go with the other guy.

PhilFree

Mecca · 04-30-2010, 06:29 PM

Even if you love Pioli, Belichick the Chiefs or Pats, does anyone really think New England is the best drafting team?

Marcellus · 04-30-2010, 06:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by philfree

I always hate the concept of a 5 year rebuild. We should be a .500 team this year and a playoff team next. If Cassel isn't getting it done this year I think we'll look else where for a QB. If he's playing like he did when he threw the nine picks in three games or whatever it was Croyle will get a shot. Haley and Wies aren't scared to go with the other guy.

PhilFree

I never said 5 years to the playoffs. I said 5 years for a SB which really isn't outlandish.

To do that we need to be a SB contender by year 3.

Marcellus · 04-30-2010, 06:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mecca

Even if you love Pioli, Belichick the Chiefs or Pats, does anyone really think New England is the best drafting team?

Valid question. I would say Indy.

Mecca · 04-30-2010, 06:36 PM

I mean that article basically reads 'NE is the supreme team and because of that I'll list both their guys as the top GM".

NE might be the best drafting team if you cut off after the year 2005 or 2006, after that they went in the shitter and became more interested in trading picks than making good selections.

04-30-2010, 04:31 PM
Tribal Warfare Man of Culture Join Date: Aug 2000 Location: Far Beyond Comprehension Casino cash: $-3027187	USA Today: Ranking the decision makers: Who is best at the NFL draft? Ranking the decision makers: Who is best at the NFL draft? Yahoo! Buzz By Nate Davis, USA TODAY So which franchise really stands the best chance to reap the most from its rookies now that the 2010 NFL draft has concluded? USA TODAY ranked the 20 league personnel executives who have been on the job for at least three years with their current team (the exception being Scott Pioli) to try and get a better idea as to who scores touchdowns in April, who settles for field goals and who coughs it up. REPORT CARD: Grading the 2010 NFL draft class 1A. Bill Belichick, head coach/el jefe supremo, New England Patriots— Little point in arguing after he transformed a franchise that seemed to be in decline into a three-time Super Bowl champion virtually overnight. Clearly Belichick learned a lot after the five putrid drafts the Cleveland Browns produced during his tenure there in the 1990s. New England has become known for its deft ability to amass quality picks and find excellent players later in the process who won't come with the price tag of a top-10 pick. Belichick has made seven second-round picks over the last two drafts and picked up an extra Round 2 pick next year after extracting it from the Carolina Panthers for a low third-round pick last Saturday. Key contributors such as receiver Deion Branch, defensive end Jarvis Green, tackle Matt Light and cornerback Asante Samuel all came at pick 48 or later. But Belichick knows how to find first-round stars, too, including 2008 defensive rookie of the year Jerod Mayo and Pro Bowlers Logan Mankins, Richard Seymour and Vince Wilfork. • Best pick: Tom Brady— The Patriots admit they got lucky finding him in the sixth round in 2000, but at least they were smarter than the 30 other teams that also passed on him multiple times. Probably the best value pick in the history of the NFL. • Worst pick: Chad Jackson— The 36th pick of the 2006 draft only caught 13 passes for New England. 1B. Scott Pioli, GM, Kansas City Chiefs— He and Belichick are essentially inextricable when it comes to New England's ascendancy. It's too early to assess Pioli's tenure in K.C., though last weekend's haul looks to be among the best of the spring. But the Patriots' success on the personnel side is just as much a credit to Pioli's eye for talent as Belichick's. And the litany of players they plucked from college aside, Pioli and Belichick were masters of using picks as currency for established stars with depressed value (Corey Dillon, Randy Moss) and gems other teams didn't appreciate (Wes Welker). After a recent spotty draft record, the Chiefs were in desperate need of a draft craftsman like Pioli. • Best pick: Matt Cassel— He barely played at USC, but Pioli took a flier on him in the seventh round of the 2005 draft anyway. Cassel proved in 2008 he can play at a Pro Bowl level, something Pioli is banking he will do for the Chiefs. • Worst pick: Laurence Maroney— The 2006 first-rounder has never rushed for as many as 900 yards and probably never will for the Patriots, who have opted not to make him a featured back.
Posts: 43,455

04-30-2010, 05:55 PM	#17
ChiefsCountry The Insider Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Lake of the Ozarks Casino cash: $-1621248	Well they did draft the best QB, or lucked into it. They still aren't as good overall as Newsome or Pollian.
Posts: 52,171

04-30-2010, 06:29 PM	#27
Mecca Hockey Town Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Kansas City, Missouri Casino cash: $-732950	Even if you love Pioli, Belichick the Chiefs or Pats, does anyone really think New England is the best drafting team?
Posts: 115,382

04-30-2010, 06:36 PM	#30
Mecca Hockey Town Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Kansas City, Missouri Casino cash: $-732950	I mean that article basically reads 'NE is the supreme team and because of that I'll list both their guys as the top GM". NE might be the best drafting team if you cut off after the year 2005 or 2006, after that they went in the shitter and became more interested in trading picks than making good selections.
Posts: 115,382