I'm going to make up for missing the last couple of days and getting some early posts in before the library opens. I give the NFL a lot of credit today. We know how stingy they are about streaming online games. If you don't it is absolutely ridiculous. They are currently allowing people to stream the combine for free. It is a win win. Not all of us get NFL network and they get more money off commercials. More channels could really learn from this. They are really making a lot of money by saying under armor and if you watch they say it a lot. Personally I am getting a kick out of it, because most the people watching this are not in competitive athletics anymore. They are allowing you to pick between two camera. If you want the link I have attached it directly below. I will try to mention UM and MSU players. They may not be at an area of need and may throw them into certain groups. Today is about TEs, OL, PK, and ST. Thus, we will really be concentrating on OL.
http://www.nfl.com/combine/live?campaign=Ext_Email_CombineLive_0225
OL
I think most of us will agree that the 40 time for OL aren't important. Trent Williams really got drafted last year 4th with the Redskins over Oklahoma State's Russel Okung based on his amazing 40 time. Now saying that nobody showed an overly impressive 40 time to say that guy is jumping way up. Both Carimi and Constanzo really helped themselves stabalize themselves. They both showed up and got the job done. You do not want to come out and be sloppy. It shows they were working hard and are ready for the combine.
Now Carimi did not look good at the first skill position (side to side, back and forth footwork). Now this drill is a great one for scouts, because it really exposes were your weight is at and how your footwork is. You want a good center of balance and short choppy steps. You want to try and duplicate Joe Thomas here and look like a dancer. James Carpenter out of Alabama showed that he is not a day one guy. He had his weight way to far upfront. Marcus Gilbert impressed both Mayock and myself. Mayock said, "You can tell he's a natural bender," a tremendous compliment for a lineman. Rodney Hudson is a guy out of FSU that really impressed me, he looked amazing in the first position drill and then went on to pull at the center position. Now snapping and pull doesn't impress me it all. He is trying to show he can play both guard and center, he has not done that yet and I am not going to account for that yet. Also, like to mention that Constanzo has fu manchu. Quick update TE Charlie Gantt tied for first in his position with 27 reps on the bench press. Brandon Fusco is a guy out of yes, Slippery Rock that looked good. Ran a decent 40 time and showed good footwork in the first position drill. Tyron Smith will only go through the medical exams and interviews. He is currently rehabbing a knee and will wait till his pro day to show off.
Slide step drill where people could really move up or down, surprisingly nobody moved.
I liked Marcus Cannon in the mirror drill. James Carpenter on the other hand looked bad and he hobbled off after the drill and is getting attention from medical staff. He is on his feet and walking fine, but clearly tweaked something. Brandon Fusco went up against Constanzo and just looked like he got beat. Which I think shows Constanzo is a guy that wants to beat you in practice and make you look bad. If he carries that attitude outside the combine, he will improve his team. Just to explain the mirror drill, you have between the hash marks to go side to side in your stance, while defender goes back and forth whenever he wants. If there is any questions about the drill please let me know, I probably will not explain every drill.
I don't see much of any significant in the broad jump and will take a break and pick it back up in about half an hour and watch position skills of group 2. I will post this now and edit it later and start a new heading for the late morning.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Plaxico Burress
We are all familiar with the MSU standout WR. What about Burress in Detroit? He would fill a need. Having WRs like Plaxico do help protect the QB in two different ways. One Megatron already does in that you can throw the ball up to him at anytime. Also, you need to roll coverage towards Plaxico's way. There is a couple things that need to be discussed first.
State of Plaxico
He is expected to be released from prison on June. He would have served according to NFL.com 20 months. The reason I use NFL.com's number is because I don't know the exact date he was put in jail and what exact date he is expected to be released (could be 22 months). Plaxico was sentenced to a two years in jail. Team interest will be a big factor in his payday. Tom Coughlin has already been quoted as saying this about Burress, "I don't know that there would be any interest."
The Michael Vick Project
We know how well Vick turned out for the Eagles, but I do not know how much we can compare these two. First off these two play different positions, but they do both heavily rely on athleticism. I think all we can know is that you can go to jail and still keep your athleticism. Vick is about 3 years younger than Burress. We do not know how hard Vick worked and how hard Burress is working out.
Bring Plaxico in?
I think you definitely bring him up and work him out. Ultimate it is going to come down to three things, his workout, teams interest, and his age. Two out of the three things I have no idea really about. Now if you can sign him to a small Vick like deal, you do not turn that away unless you believe he would be a cancer to the team. He is 33 though, he could possibly have a few years left in him. I think he would be happy in Detroit. He would be in a smaller market than New York and he would be around better people. I have to imagine that he would still be a deep threat and along with a huge red zone threat. Burress opposite of Megatron with Burleson in the slot would be dangerous. Now we would be through the draft and hopefully past free agency before we would make a decision on Burress. This is a decision that should be made very slowly. The slower you make it the more the opposite gets and a smaller number to the cap. I have faith in Mayhew that he will make the right decision here. If they don't even want to look at a 33 year old WR, I think that would be a mistake. They may consider Burress to be a gap player and will only want to get gap players if only absolutely necessary.
State of Plaxico
He is expected to be released from prison on June. He would have served according to NFL.com 20 months. The reason I use NFL.com's number is because I don't know the exact date he was put in jail and what exact date he is expected to be released (could be 22 months). Plaxico was sentenced to a two years in jail. Team interest will be a big factor in his payday. Tom Coughlin has already been quoted as saying this about Burress, "I don't know that there would be any interest."
The Michael Vick Project
We know how well Vick turned out for the Eagles, but I do not know how much we can compare these two. First off these two play different positions, but they do both heavily rely on athleticism. I think all we can know is that you can go to jail and still keep your athleticism. Vick is about 3 years younger than Burress. We do not know how hard Vick worked and how hard Burress is working out.
Bring Plaxico in?
I think you definitely bring him up and work him out. Ultimate it is going to come down to three things, his workout, teams interest, and his age. Two out of the three things I have no idea really about. Now if you can sign him to a small Vick like deal, you do not turn that away unless you believe he would be a cancer to the team. He is 33 though, he could possibly have a few years left in him. I think he would be happy in Detroit. He would be in a smaller market than New York and he would be around better people. I have to imagine that he would still be a deep threat and along with a huge red zone threat. Burress opposite of Megatron with Burleson in the slot would be dangerous. Now we would be through the draft and hopefully past free agency before we would make a decision on Burress. This is a decision that should be made very slowly. The slower you make it the more the opposite gets and a smaller number to the cap. I have faith in Mayhew that he will make the right decision here. If they don't even want to look at a 33 year old WR, I think that would be a mistake. They may consider Burress to be a gap player and will only want to get gap players if only absolutely necessary.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
The 12 picks ahead of us
On the eve of the combine I'm going to put who I think they're going to take, from most likely to least.
I won't make a full draft mock draft till sometime after the combine, but let me be an early person to say this name.
Cam Newton - I am yet to see his name here, but once the daft gets closer a QBs name will be there it always is. I almost back off this being a QB here though for two reasons. Carolina has some pretty boy from a school that plays for ties and not wins at QB. I kind of think they realized he probably is not going to pan out. The second reason I hesitate is because of the CBA (I know it always has to be mentioned). I thought a rookie wage scale would be a push over item for them but apparently it wasn't. There is going to be a rookie wage scale, how they handle it is really tough to say. It could release some pressure from the team picking one to draft a QB though. This is who I think they're going to pick for the same reason a QB goes first a high percentage of the time, the money.
Nick Fairley - Shockingly the Lions might be an example for another team. A DT like Suh really can make a massive difference for a team with several holes. Now lets face it, nobody will ever come close to Suh in our eyes. Lets just move on.
AJ Green - The Matt Millen sexy pick. He is second on my big board behind Peterson. This guy is not CJ, but he is going to be great in the NFL. He has amazing body control, great hands, speed, size, he has it all. He is about 25 pounds lighter and an inch shorter than CJ.
2. Denver Broncos
This is a really tough to say. When the draft gets closer it will probably be obvious.
Da'Quan Bowers - I think they will pass on the DT and go with the sexier defensive position pick.
Patrick Peterson - Still staying sexy on the defensive side with my second thought.
Nick Fairley - It will be interesting to see if Green is considered here. I don't think so, but Fox may want to build around Mr. yapper. I don't question Tebows work ethic, but he is kind of turned into Lebron his rookie year with the commercials. Champions outwork their opponents while nobody is watching. You know guys like Marvin Harrison are just constantly getting things right with Peyton instead of out shooting commercials. Enough with the Tebow talk. People are going to be high on Fairley and rightfully so. He just might not be play a big enough position for the Broncos
3. Buffalo Bills
Nick Fairley - This one is extremely close. If Fairley is here I think they are wondering how and take him.
Patrick Peterson - I don't think they pass him up if Fairley and Newton are gone. They get the number one guy in the draft in my opinion.
Cam Newton - They would have hope with a QB.
4. Cincinnati Bengals
AJ Green - I feel like Peterson should go here, but I think they make the sexy pick. I am not in their front office (thank goodness) and don't exactly know what the deal is with TO, Johnson (soon to be formely known Ochocinco), and Palmer. This may make Palmer happy or if they bring in a new QB like Kolb.
Patrick Peterson - It really seems to be close between these two and even three. Peterson has a better chance at getting drafted earlier also.
Cam Newton - He is still lingering around.
5. Arizona Cardinals
Von Miller - I got them making one of the hugest mistakes in the drafts, but maybe not for them. Their new DC Horton, reigns from LeBeau. He may not place much emphasis on CB, and they could use a guy exactly like Miller to build their defense around.
Patrick Peterson - He would be tough to pass on here.
Blaine Gabbert - Yeah, Newton is gone. Actually he'd be next, but by me saying it here there's no need to put him down there.
6. Cleveland Browns
Patrick Peterson - I hope they are stupid enough to pass on him.
Robert Quinn - Really seems to be down to two guys at this point.
7. San Francisco
Robert Quinn - I could put Dareus next, but don't see it over Quinn. Everyone has Gabbert here, but I don't see it at all. Why not take a chance on Troy Smith who has looked good (that is tough for me to say), rather than taking a chance with the 7th pick on Gabbert. Personally I'd rather gamble on a guy that has looked good in the NFL than use the 7th pick and gamble on Gabbert.
8. Tennessee Titans
Blaine Gabbert - Dareus sadly falls because Titans need a QB. If he is here they take him.
Marcell Dareus - Gabbert is gone they will go with one of the DL.
9. Dallas Cowboys
Marcell Dareus - He may fall continue to fall. Jones is a proactive owner and is like a kid in the candy store. His opinion are based on the wow factor like most fans of the game. DT do not really give you the wow factor. I'm really tempted to put Prince here. Part of me believes that I didn't put Prince here so he could fall to us.
Prince Amukamara - Is there really another choice here? Blaine Gabbert to take over for Romo maybe, nah.
10. Washington Redskins
Prince Amukamara - With Jamarcus Russell, I mean Newton at one it seems like everyone falls down one spot and that team is surprised.
Blaine Gabbert - I think they would take him over Prince if he was here. Sometimes you have to keep the fans happy with the sexy pick, right Millen?
Marcell Dareus - He really falls here do you pass on him?
11. Houston Texans
Aldon Smith - When your changing to a 3-4 you need guys like this. I think this is going to be a DT or a DE/OLB. If any of the DT or DE/OLB are here they'll be taken over Aldon. I don't see anyone else really falling and I don't see them liking anyone better than Aldon
12. Minnesota Vikings
This is a tough one. I think the CBA will be a big factor in this pick. Depending on if the Vikings can trade for a Mcnabb, might truly decide if they go QB or not. Is it interesting to anyone else that both Mcnabb and Kolb are on the trade block.
Jake Locker - I think he will show up at the combine. This could be Mallet who really knows. These two QBs have a good chance of not being in the first round and I have one at 12. Sometimes you need to shut the fans up and make them happy with you got it a Millen pick. I think Locker is a great prospect and worthy of this pick, but I am pretty alone in that regard. Viking fans know that the owner can easily afford to build a new stadium out of his pocket, but why would he when he can have the tax payers do it. They are going to be a little upset and this could get them talking about good things. I doubt it though, I think they'll hate the pick.
Cameron Jordan - It all seems to be a guess at this point.
Julio Jones - Sidney Rice could be a free agent and might not be happy with the Vikings. This might be a fan favorite pick, if they get the pick in time.
That leaves about what we expected, even with the early preview of a QB going one.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Moves to turn the corner Part II
Jets have franchise tagged Harris and Vikes with Greenway. I don't think Greenway one of the top five linebackers in this league. So, if the Vikes want to spend that much money they can. I can understand why they would as they are going to be rebuilding and need to keep the young talent they do have. Now now matter what we're going to have to sign some LB and CB free agents. The Lions are in a interesting spot. They're turning the corner and they're young. We want our free agents to be guys (generally not gals) that are under 30 and that will play in the future.
LB
Levy is the only guy that should be a starter on this roster is you want to be a playoff caliber team. Now personally I'm not that big of a fan. You look at Vinny, Bobby, Ashlee, and Landon, I think these guys are decent to quality backups. An abundance amounts of LBs are going to be needed to be brought in to compete for the backup positions. I don't care if they try the water boy out at LB. There's some good LBs in the draft and also in free agency. Once free agency hits I hope we hear another story about Schwartz talking to Tulloch the second free agency starts. Probably the best inside backer in the FA. Personally I think Tulloch or Levy can play outside. Posluszny would be another MLB that would be a great young upgrade. He has had injury issues, but they may be a reason that the Bills will want to part ways. OLB group isn't like as well now with top two FA franchise tagged. Manny Lawson is a guy that is going to want to move to a 4-3 scheme. Davis and Anderson from Carolina would be two good OLB to look at. A big risk reward guy would be Justin Durant, it really matters how much it cost to sign him. A good number of LBs will be available in the draft. Ayers would be a good pickup later in the first round. Second to third round you looking for Mason Foster, 4th round Lawrence Wilson, 5th round Herzlich or Matthews.
CB
This is area may need to be addressed. Alphonso Smith is currently are best CB. It's tough to say which CBs are going to be available. Nnamdi is clearly the premier guy. Everyone is going to have their tie to him. I heard the other day Woodson was going to get him to Green Bay. It's going to come down to who offers him the most money, then the best situation. Now if you do sign him he really restricts you from getting a Tulloch. We would love for Houston to comeback. Right now we need two starting CBs. To sign one quality guy might be tough. There's only a handful of guys that would be a great pickup. Be best if we could sign a Cromartie or a Houston and then get a Harris or Smith in the second round. If we can get two first rounders from the Patriots this would greatly help us in getting a good CB.
S
You have a starter in Delmas and then a guy that's a work-in-process in Spievey. Spievey got picked on a lot when he came in last year. He seemed to make some plays, but eventually they beat him. John Wendling is a guy you hang on to tight. He is a special teams specialist. Let C.C. sign elsewhere. I think you have to look at a guy like Weddle. He'll probably get a big payday from the Chargers. You can't spend much more resources at this position anyway. Dashon Goldson would make a lot of logical sense. He should be relatively inexpensive and he would have a chance to start for us. Same with Tom Zbikowski. These guys won't get huge paydays, but they're quality backups. They should get a chance to start which will promote competition in camp. They may look to draft a safety in the later rounds, but probably won't pick up a Rahim Moore in the second round unless they have an extra pick.
K
There's been a lot of talk about this position. I would be absolutely disturb if this isn't Jason's job till he retires. He's a guy that has gone through so much as a Lion. There is not to many guys that can say they were a lifer for a team especially in this day in age. The big names that come to thought when you associate them with one team, they finished with another team, Brett Favre, Jerry Rice, and Joe Montana. There are guys that only play for one team their entire career, but my point is Jason deserves to be treated fairly. He gets to go out on his terms and I think we have to trust him until he proves otherwise. He has had some speculator years recently. He got snubbed of a pro bowl a few years ago because we were just bad. How big would it be if 90% of the time you could guarantee a touch back. That would be huge. I think we bring in a kickoff specialist that is a waiting in the wing kind of guy. I do not believe that is Dave Rayner.
P
Nick Harris is quality punter in this league. If your wanting to upgrade here, good luck. Kicker and punter have small numbers on the market and very rarely do they not re-sign or retire.
It would be nice to at least get a stud and good starter at CB and LB through the draft, but that is looking tough. We really need to focus on those two positions then the OL and the speed burner receiver. This the Detroit Roar over and out.
CB
This is area may need to be addressed. Alphonso Smith is currently are best CB. It's tough to say which CBs are going to be available. Nnamdi is clearly the premier guy. Everyone is going to have their tie to him. I heard the other day Woodson was going to get him to Green Bay. It's going to come down to who offers him the most money, then the best situation. Now if you do sign him he really restricts you from getting a Tulloch. We would love for Houston to comeback. Right now we need two starting CBs. To sign one quality guy might be tough. There's only a handful of guys that would be a great pickup. Be best if we could sign a Cromartie or a Houston and then get a Harris or Smith in the second round. If we can get two first rounders from the Patriots this would greatly help us in getting a good CB.
S
You have a starter in Delmas and then a guy that's a work-in-process in Spievey. Spievey got picked on a lot when he came in last year. He seemed to make some plays, but eventually they beat him. John Wendling is a guy you hang on to tight. He is a special teams specialist. Let C.C. sign elsewhere. I think you have to look at a guy like Weddle. He'll probably get a big payday from the Chargers. You can't spend much more resources at this position anyway. Dashon Goldson would make a lot of logical sense. He should be relatively inexpensive and he would have a chance to start for us. Same with Tom Zbikowski. These guys won't get huge paydays, but they're quality backups. They should get a chance to start which will promote competition in camp. They may look to draft a safety in the later rounds, but probably won't pick up a Rahim Moore in the second round unless they have an extra pick.
K
There's been a lot of talk about this position. I would be absolutely disturb if this isn't Jason's job till he retires. He's a guy that has gone through so much as a Lion. There is not to many guys that can say they were a lifer for a team especially in this day in age. The big names that come to thought when you associate them with one team, they finished with another team, Brett Favre, Jerry Rice, and Joe Montana. There are guys that only play for one team their entire career, but my point is Jason deserves to be treated fairly. He gets to go out on his terms and I think we have to trust him until he proves otherwise. He has had some speculator years recently. He got snubbed of a pro bowl a few years ago because we were just bad. How big would it be if 90% of the time you could guarantee a touch back. That would be huge. I think we bring in a kickoff specialist that is a waiting in the wing kind of guy. I do not believe that is Dave Rayner.
P
Nick Harris is quality punter in this league. If your wanting to upgrade here, good luck. Kicker and punter have small numbers on the market and very rarely do they not re-sign or retire.
It would be nice to at least get a stud and good starter at CB and LB through the draft, but that is looking tough. We really need to focus on those two positions then the OL and the speed burner receiver. This the Detroit Roar over and out.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Moves to turn the corner
Lets keep in mind that Chris Houston is not a Lion. I'm going to assume we signed Coleman to compete with Spievey and one of them will get the job. Now there's some good free agents whenever free agency hits. With the success in Detroit we need to hope free agents are wanting to come. I think one reason we enjoy the draft so much is because we know we get that player and also because of the potential. I'm going to address every position below:
QB
We have our franchise doll and a quality backup qb. I don't see how we can keep Stanton around. If we get to our third string QB I don't think we're getting to the playoffs and that's the goal. Nothing needs to be addressed
RB
Best is not a workhorse type guy. He's an amazing RB when healthy and even when not at times. Before the injury we all loved Kevin Smith and he would be a great match with best. Morris played well late in the season and would be a great third string RB. Aaron Brown should be cut. Now we can keep Ian Johnson on the practice squad to provide backup. I don't think much needs to change here. We just need a healthy Kevin Smith.
FB
Nothing needs to be said. Felton kind of a hybrid FB, great fit for our offense.
WR
Megatron and Burleson are a great duo. Burleson stepped in and was a quality one at times, but he excels in the slot. Megatron would greatly improve if there was a vertical threat opposite side of him. That would be a tough defensive match-up for every team in the league. A Sidney Rice would be nice, but there's going to be a cap and may not be the best move. Steve Breaston is a guy that is probably going to want out of Arizona and has ties to Michigan. Ever since his final season at PSU Derrick Williams just hasn't produced. He's been a huge disappointment in my opinion. Stefan Logan is flat and simply a stud. I like the idea of working him into the offense, but not as a full time starter. Just as a guy you put in and put a wrinkle on the play. Special teams are undervalued in this league. I'll take first downs on one play. You go 3 and out from the 35 and gain 7 yards, isn't a terrible situation. Go 3 and out from the 20 and gain 7 yards and your going to lose field position fast. Now besides the select three guys, everyone really can be cut. It pains me to say it, because I always thinks D Williams is going to explode. He just hasn't produced and the guy in front of him is doing nothing (Bryant Johnson), there's just no excuse. Obviously you need depth at this position and for that reason guys will be kept, but this is an area that needs to be improved through free agency. I have to imagine we can get one guy better than Bryant Johnson.
TE
Kind of an interesting situation. Scheffler, Pettigrew, and Heller, all good TEs in this league. Heller is more of a blocking TE, but most certainly can catch. Scheffler is the complete opposite, but can block. In the middle is Pettigrew who can do it all. Nothing needs to be addressed with these three guys.
C
Raiola is a good center and will probably be with us for a few more years. Pouncey and Wisnieswki are great talents. Wisnieswki can obviously play guard as well. These guys would probably have to play guard till Raiola retires anyways. I'd like to see them pick up someone who is young that they can groom. They have kid out of Ball State, but he's doubtful. Area that can't really be addressed this year.
G
We have one glaring hole that needs to be addressed. I think it needs to be addressed with Backus. Moving Backus to guard should extend his carrier. I don't think you can move Cherilus to guard because he's 6-7. That'd be tough. There's definitely some decent guards in the draft that can be taken. Most free agent OL will stay where they're at making it difficult to get an improvement through free agency. Drafting a LT would definitely help the OL out a lot, but I don't think it should be a high need in the draft.
OT
Cherilus needs to improve at Rt and Hilliard has shown he's an excellent backup. Backus will be adequate for another year at LT. He had a good year and deserves recognition. Getting an elite LT would improve the whole line. I like one of our guards and with Backus one, it would be a strong position for us. Cherilus shows in signs, OL could be a strength for us. Jason Fox is a smart work in process and didn't look bad.
DE
Don't make this any harder than it needs to be. Resign Avril, Jared Devries sadly needs to go, and probably one other needs to go. That looks like Willie Parker right now.
DT
Corey Williams is offsides to much. I'm not sure Fluellen has come around enough to get a new contract. Sammie Hill provides great depth at the position. More depth needs to be added through free agency.
Now that I've gotten to the seven of our defense and special teams. That's where the most moves will need to be made and I'll save that for tomorrow. The Detroit Roar roaring out.
QB
We have our franchise doll and a quality backup qb. I don't see how we can keep Stanton around. If we get to our third string QB I don't think we're getting to the playoffs and that's the goal. Nothing needs to be addressed
RB
Best is not a workhorse type guy. He's an amazing RB when healthy and even when not at times. Before the injury we all loved Kevin Smith and he would be a great match with best. Morris played well late in the season and would be a great third string RB. Aaron Brown should be cut. Now we can keep Ian Johnson on the practice squad to provide backup. I don't think much needs to change here. We just need a healthy Kevin Smith.
FB
Nothing needs to be said. Felton kind of a hybrid FB, great fit for our offense.
WR
Megatron and Burleson are a great duo. Burleson stepped in and was a quality one at times, but he excels in the slot. Megatron would greatly improve if there was a vertical threat opposite side of him. That would be a tough defensive match-up for every team in the league. A Sidney Rice would be nice, but there's going to be a cap and may not be the best move. Steve Breaston is a guy that is probably going to want out of Arizona and has ties to Michigan. Ever since his final season at PSU Derrick Williams just hasn't produced. He's been a huge disappointment in my opinion. Stefan Logan is flat and simply a stud. I like the idea of working him into the offense, but not as a full time starter. Just as a guy you put in and put a wrinkle on the play. Special teams are undervalued in this league. I'll take first downs on one play. You go 3 and out from the 35 and gain 7 yards, isn't a terrible situation. Go 3 and out from the 20 and gain 7 yards and your going to lose field position fast. Now besides the select three guys, everyone really can be cut. It pains me to say it, because I always thinks D Williams is going to explode. He just hasn't produced and the guy in front of him is doing nothing (Bryant Johnson), there's just no excuse. Obviously you need depth at this position and for that reason guys will be kept, but this is an area that needs to be improved through free agency. I have to imagine we can get one guy better than Bryant Johnson.
TE
Kind of an interesting situation. Scheffler, Pettigrew, and Heller, all good TEs in this league. Heller is more of a blocking TE, but most certainly can catch. Scheffler is the complete opposite, but can block. In the middle is Pettigrew who can do it all. Nothing needs to be addressed with these three guys.
C
Raiola is a good center and will probably be with us for a few more years. Pouncey and Wisnieswki are great talents. Wisnieswki can obviously play guard as well. These guys would probably have to play guard till Raiola retires anyways. I'd like to see them pick up someone who is young that they can groom. They have kid out of Ball State, but he's doubtful. Area that can't really be addressed this year.
G
We have one glaring hole that needs to be addressed. I think it needs to be addressed with Backus. Moving Backus to guard should extend his carrier. I don't think you can move Cherilus to guard because he's 6-7. That'd be tough. There's definitely some decent guards in the draft that can be taken. Most free agent OL will stay where they're at making it difficult to get an improvement through free agency. Drafting a LT would definitely help the OL out a lot, but I don't think it should be a high need in the draft.
OT
Cherilus needs to improve at Rt and Hilliard has shown he's an excellent backup. Backus will be adequate for another year at LT. He had a good year and deserves recognition. Getting an elite LT would improve the whole line. I like one of our guards and with Backus one, it would be a strong position for us. Cherilus shows in signs, OL could be a strength for us. Jason Fox is a smart work in process and didn't look bad.
DE
Don't make this any harder than it needs to be. Resign Avril, Jared Devries sadly needs to go, and probably one other needs to go. That looks like Willie Parker right now.
DT
Corey Williams is offsides to much. I'm not sure Fluellen has come around enough to get a new contract. Sammie Hill provides great depth at the position. More depth needs to be added through free agency.
Now that I've gotten to the seven of our defense and special teams. That's where the most moves will need to be made and I'll save that for tomorrow. The Detroit Roar roaring out.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
My Lions draft
This is what I'd like to see happen and I'm trying to be as realistic as possible. Now that we have a safety signed. I think it will give Spievey more time to get experience and learn. It also fills a need for us and I'm going to take that off the board. I also don't have high priority on offensive tackle as a need but it is a need.
I don't see Peterson slipping past 6 and Prince past 9. These are the only two guys I'm trading up for. Give up a second round for Peterson and a third for Prince would be moves that would be great. I'm going to pass on this. For the simple reason I know how this is going to play out in my head. Unfortunately there's 31 other teams in real life able to decide for themselves what to do.
The 13th comes up I'm going to trade with the Patriots. These are just a couple of ways to do it:
Scenario 1: We get the 17th and 28th and give up 13th pick and our second round pick
Scenario 2: We get the 28th and 33rd and give up the 13th, 4th rounder, and swap fifth round picks
Now with scenario one I'm looking at drafting Ayers and Harris/Smith
With Scenario two there are several options. In this scenario you have basically two late first round picks and a mid third round pick. With the 28th and 33rd pick I'm keying Pouncey, Houston, Smith, Harris, and a tackle. I'd like to go 28-Houston, 33-Harris/Smith, 42-Wisniewski. I don't know how realistic this is, but it sure does look good. Wisniewski is a versatile player and play G or C.
I think the trade in both scenarios is a win win. The Patriots can get a playmaker in both scenarios. In scenario one they can get a OT and a DE/OLB at 33 and 42. In scenario two they get a top tier playmaker and OT. The also have a late second round pick to get that DE/OLB. This makes a lot of sense for both parties both ways.
Scenario 2 has a lot of risk, so I'm going to lean right now towards scenario one.
17th pick arrives and we get to our first pick - Akeem Ayers
28th pick arrives and I see either Harris or Smith being there - Brandon Harris
Other considerations here - Pouncey, Carimi (any OT), and Houston
75th (3rd round) pick arrives - Mason Foster
Other considerations - Sands, Jake Kirkpatrick, Clint Boling, Greg Jones, Cannon, and Watkins
106 (4th round) - Vincent Brown WR
Reasoning - I think all OL here will be a work in process. We already have a work in process and why waste this pick when we'll end up taking a OL higher next year.
Other considerations - Austin Pettis, Casey Matthews, Lawrence Wilson, Lee Ziemba, Dontay Moch, Nate Irving, and Joseph Barksdale (Barksdale is unlikely in my opinion to be there)
151 (5th round) the last pick is here for the Lions - Casey Matthews
Reasoning - He can play inside or outside and it's a position we need depth. If he's here, he'll probably be the best available player.
Other considerations - Herzlich, Joe Lefeged, Jalil Brown, anyother CB or S, and Dion Lewis
What we walk away with
Two starters at the OLB position. One that can rush the passer and drop into coverage and a sure tackler.
A work in process LB that will provide depth and be GREAT on special teams and in practice.
A top tier CB. There's going to be some risk here, but he'll start for us.
A WR to go opposite of Megatron and let Burleson go in the slot if he's good enough.
I don't see Peterson slipping past 6 and Prince past 9. These are the only two guys I'm trading up for. Give up a second round for Peterson and a third for Prince would be moves that would be great. I'm going to pass on this. For the simple reason I know how this is going to play out in my head. Unfortunately there's 31 other teams in real life able to decide for themselves what to do.
The 13th comes up I'm going to trade with the Patriots. These are just a couple of ways to do it:
Scenario 1: We get the 17th and 28th and give up 13th pick and our second round pick
Scenario 2: We get the 28th and 33rd and give up the 13th, 4th rounder, and swap fifth round picks
Now with scenario one I'm looking at drafting Ayers and Harris/Smith
With Scenario two there are several options. In this scenario you have basically two late first round picks and a mid third round pick. With the 28th and 33rd pick I'm keying Pouncey, Houston, Smith, Harris, and a tackle. I'd like to go 28-Houston, 33-Harris/Smith, 42-Wisniewski. I don't know how realistic this is, but it sure does look good. Wisniewski is a versatile player and play G or C.
I think the trade in both scenarios is a win win. The Patriots can get a playmaker in both scenarios. In scenario one they can get a OT and a DE/OLB at 33 and 42. In scenario two they get a top tier playmaker and OT. The also have a late second round pick to get that DE/OLB. This makes a lot of sense for both parties both ways.
Scenario 2 has a lot of risk, so I'm going to lean right now towards scenario one.
17th pick arrives and we get to our first pick - Akeem Ayers
28th pick arrives and I see either Harris or Smith being there - Brandon Harris
Other considerations here - Pouncey, Carimi (any OT), and Houston
75th (3rd round) pick arrives - Mason Foster
Other considerations - Sands, Jake Kirkpatrick, Clint Boling, Greg Jones, Cannon, and Watkins
106 (4th round) - Vincent Brown WR
Reasoning - I think all OL here will be a work in process. We already have a work in process and why waste this pick when we'll end up taking a OL higher next year.
Other considerations - Austin Pettis, Casey Matthews, Lawrence Wilson, Lee Ziemba, Dontay Moch, Nate Irving, and Joseph Barksdale (Barksdale is unlikely in my opinion to be there)
151 (5th round) the last pick is here for the Lions - Casey Matthews
Reasoning - He can play inside or outside and it's a position we need depth. If he's here, he'll probably be the best available player.
Other considerations - Herzlich, Joe Lefeged, Jalil Brown, anyother CB or S, and Dion Lewis
What we walk away with
Two starters at the OLB position. One that can rush the passer and drop into coverage and a sure tackler.
A work in process LB that will provide depth and be GREAT on special teams and in practice.
A top tier CB. There's going to be some risk here, but he'll start for us.
A WR to go opposite of Megatron and let Burleson go in the slot if he's good enough.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
2011 Detroit NFL draft 4th round
If you haven't heard, the Lions have lost their 7th round pick and will move back 14 spots in the fifth round. Not to big of a deal. We also don't have a 6th round pick. So we are down to 5 picks in this years draft. It would have been nice to take a chance on a speedy receiver that can stretch the field, but they rarely turn out to anything anyways (Tim Toone). The Lions can appeal this but not much is going to change. Below is my list of targets for the fourth and fifth round.
4th Round
LBS
Casey Matthews
Greg Jones
Lawrence Wilson
S
DeAndre McDaniel
CB
Richard Sherman
OT
James Carpenter
Jason Pinkston
Joseph Barksdale
5th Round
LBS
Casey Matthews
Mark Herzlich
Tank Carder
CB
Marcus Van Dyke
Davon House
S
Ahmad Black
Jeron Johnson
Jaiqwan Jarrett
WR
Vincent Brown
Greg Salas
OT
Will Rackley
Derek Hall
I will be doing at least one complete draft for the Lions tomorrow.
2011 Detroit NFL draft 3rd round
The later rounds are where you have quality drafts and it starts in the third round. It's hard to say what areas we've drafted in the first two round. You don't want to draft on need as much in the ladder rounds or you end up drafting a guy that isn't going to play. I think you guys will start to see, if we can trade down in the first round we get more players that can actually start for us.
CBs
Ras-I-Dowling - This guy is projected as a 2-3 round pick. Several teams would have drafted a CB, so it's possible that this guy does fall to the third round. It's to bad for him because he has second round talent. His biggest problems are his speed and his footwork. You can say these two go hand and hand. If you can coach him up you can get a quality starter, maybe a decent starter in his first year. He loves do hit people, good when the ball is in the air, and he's 6-2. What I like best about him as that he doesn't play selfish football. He understands when he has to keep his outside shoulder free in the running game. He understands that batting the ball away is a win.
Brandon Burton - Is a third round pick guy. Nothing really to special of him. He has good footwork, good closing speed, and good ball skills. If he is in position he usually makes a play on the ball. He doesn't get off blocks well and not always understand what is going on. Frustrated me most is at the goal line allowing underneath route. Doesn't always understand when there's help over the top or not. Good routes will beat him, a straight fly won't. If he's in position he usually makes a play on the ball.
Guards
Danny Watkins and Marcus Cannon - Both guys can come in and start at G. Watkins is better in the pass game where Cannon is better in the running game. They both continue to block through the whistle. Their opponent always seems to be upset. Cannon will go ahead of Watkins because of his upside.
Safeties
Deunta Williams - He can catch the ball, so you won't say that's why he plays defense to many times. Can come up and make a play in the running game. He's a step up over Spievey. Nothing overly impressive over him. He's a guy that can sit in his zone, has decent instincts, and good at the tip drill.
Robert Sands - I absolutely love this guy in the third round. He's got great ball skills, very athletic, good form tackler, and great instincts. Has trouble catching the ball for the big play (not that he can't) and extremely aggressive. He'd be a great fit for this team and a very likely option in the third round.
Linebackers
Greg Jones - I don't think I need to say to much here. Very athletic, loves to tackle, and greatly improved in the passing game. Lions have a late third round pick or if he falls to the fourth round, I think it would be a mistake to pass him up. It is going to take time for him to reach his potential and he is going to have to be coached up. You expect that later in the draft, but he could eventually be a good starter.
Casey Matthews - I think he's going to be over drafted because of his family. He's a good football player with a high motor. I've heard he has an absolutely great work ethic. He's an athletic guy that should need sometime to transition into OLB, but could possibly start for this team. Your still looking for starters in the first four rounds, but worst case scenario he's a special teams all-star. I think he is worth a mid fourth round pick, but not anywhere in the third. To me he projects to be a fifth round pick, but I have him here because I think someone will reach for him. Also, if we do have several picks and a late third rounder and several lbs are off the board, you are going to have to consider this guy here.
Jeremy Beal - He's 6-3 and 267 pounds. I find him to be extremely athletic for his size. He definitely projects to be a 3-4 stand up DE. I think he'd be a great third round pick. Standing up and with his hand in the dirt he can get to the QB. Tight hips and won't be that great on pass defensive. You probably won't be running the ball to many times on his side of the field in a 4-3 with him at OLB. You would like him to trim down to gain some speed.
CBs
Ras-I-Dowling - This guy is projected as a 2-3 round pick. Several teams would have drafted a CB, so it's possible that this guy does fall to the third round. It's to bad for him because he has second round talent. His biggest problems are his speed and his footwork. You can say these two go hand and hand. If you can coach him up you can get a quality starter, maybe a decent starter in his first year. He loves do hit people, good when the ball is in the air, and he's 6-2. What I like best about him as that he doesn't play selfish football. He understands when he has to keep his outside shoulder free in the running game. He understands that batting the ball away is a win.
Brandon Burton - Is a third round pick guy. Nothing really to special of him. He has good footwork, good closing speed, and good ball skills. If he is in position he usually makes a play on the ball. He doesn't get off blocks well and not always understand what is going on. Frustrated me most is at the goal line allowing underneath route. Doesn't always understand when there's help over the top or not. Good routes will beat him, a straight fly won't. If he's in position he usually makes a play on the ball.
Guards
Danny Watkins and Marcus Cannon - Both guys can come in and start at G. Watkins is better in the pass game where Cannon is better in the running game. They both continue to block through the whistle. Their opponent always seems to be upset. Cannon will go ahead of Watkins because of his upside.
Safeties
Deunta Williams - He can catch the ball, so you won't say that's why he plays defense to many times. Can come up and make a play in the running game. He's a step up over Spievey. Nothing overly impressive over him. He's a guy that can sit in his zone, has decent instincts, and good at the tip drill.
Robert Sands - I absolutely love this guy in the third round. He's got great ball skills, very athletic, good form tackler, and great instincts. Has trouble catching the ball for the big play (not that he can't) and extremely aggressive. He'd be a great fit for this team and a very likely option in the third round.
Linebackers
Greg Jones - I don't think I need to say to much here. Very athletic, loves to tackle, and greatly improved in the passing game. Lions have a late third round pick or if he falls to the fourth round, I think it would be a mistake to pass him up. It is going to take time for him to reach his potential and he is going to have to be coached up. You expect that later in the draft, but he could eventually be a good starter.
Casey Matthews - I think he's going to be over drafted because of his family. He's a good football player with a high motor. I've heard he has an absolutely great work ethic. He's an athletic guy that should need sometime to transition into OLB, but could possibly start for this team. Your still looking for starters in the first four rounds, but worst case scenario he's a special teams all-star. I think he is worth a mid fourth round pick, but not anywhere in the third. To me he projects to be a fifth round pick, but I have him here because I think someone will reach for him. Also, if we do have several picks and a late third rounder and several lbs are off the board, you are going to have to consider this guy here.
Jeremy Beal - He's 6-3 and 267 pounds. I find him to be extremely athletic for his size. He definitely projects to be a 3-4 stand up DE. I think he'd be a great third round pick. Standing up and with his hand in the dirt he can get to the QB. Tight hips and won't be that great on pass defensive. You probably won't be running the ball to many times on his side of the field in a 4-3 with him at OLB. You would like him to trim down to gain some speed.
Friday, February 18, 2011
2011 Detroit NFL draft 2nd round
It's definitely tough to say who will be available in the second round for the Lions. I want to look at about everyone available, because I think the Lions will not be afraid of move up or down if there's a guy they really like. Several of these guys I've talked about in the first round that could possibly be day two kind of guys. I truly believe that there's going to be a slew of tackles taken in the late second round.
Second Round prospects:
Tackles
Gabe Carimi - He's not going to overpower anyone in the NFL and seems to lack that power punch. I love his footwork and it looks completely natural to him. Several of the bigger tackles you can seem them having good footwork, but because it isn't natural they tend to take to many steps and to much room for athletic DEs. I don't see him blowing anyone five yards back, but he always seems to have his head in the right place. He engages second level guys and stays attached very well. I think he's going to be taken in the first round, but I believe he's an early second round kind of guy.
Benjamin Ijalana - He's a big tackle that I think that come in and play but lacks athleticism. He has trouble getting on second level guys. He should be given some leeway there because part of the problem was the offensive scheme. I first saw him, I thought they were passing on every play which was wrong. He does a good job of setting up the same way every time, but because they were a shotgun team he head very little pressure on his down hand. He seemed to gulf up DEs in the passing and running game and had his way with them in D1 AA. I'd say he's a little raw in the passing game. He tends to let people into him and then engulfs them instead of throwing his big old bear claws at them.
Centers
Mike Pouncey - Doubt he'll be a day two guy, but if he is he's just as good as his brother. His brother has only been in the league for the year, but I truly believe that this is the kind of guy you draft in the second round and he's with you for the next 15 years as a pro bowl caliber center. A Jason Hanson at the center position. High reward minimal risk kind of guy. You'll probably hear that he might have trouble with QBs under center, I highly doubt that.
Stefen Wisniewski - This guy his flat out going to be a stud in this league, which translates into his name won't be mentioned. He's an intelligent guy. He has a 4.0, but lets put that in context. He's a secondary education major. He's a guy that looks like he loves playing the game. Pouncey is a little more athletic, but that's not a knock on him by any means. I got to imagine coming form Joe Pa he'll have that old school mentality like his LBs do.
Safeties
Rahim Moore - I absolutely love this guy. He's not an athletic enough to be a top ten pick, but man he seems to have a high football IQ. I'll say this you really can't see a guys football IQ by watching him on film. I've never really seen a safety that wasn't keying in the backfield, but when I asked myself why his he missing stepping there and sure enough the Guard and center gave him that look. I don't know their scheme and probably shouldn't guess, but they way it looked to me is he's reading center or guard depending on alignment to the backfield. UCLA's defense just looked like an atrocity. He made way to many tackles in the running game, too many blockers were allowed to get to him, but yet he made just about every tackle. This guy is a sure tackler. He comes into the lane and hits RBs before they even get going sometimes. I was really impressed with his speed. He seemed to be 15 yards back and on a WR screen he was there in a heart beat to make the solo tackle for a very minimal gain on 2nd and 3. He's good in the pass game as well, good hips, decent balls skills, great instincts, good athleticism, and seems to be where he needs to be. Would be a fantastic addition to the Lions.
Quinton Carter - He's a guy that loves to hit. My personal opinion is that this guy is a early to mid second round guy, but doesn't fit the Lions need. This guy is very similar to Delmas likes to really smack someone. Good in the running game and rushing the QB. I'd prefer more of a ball hawk at FS. He'd be an upgrade. He's a guy that was mentioned has having extremely high character. Donates his time and started his own Non-profit company. To some people that might not sound like to big of a deal, but the time commitment is unbelievable. A high percentage of these guys struggle with time management with playing football and academics and honestly it's a tough thing to do. To have time to start a company and run it and then on top of that voluntary his time, really is amazing and should get praise for that. As far as football he's an athletic guy, with great speed, and tacklers like Ed Reed. The difference between the Lions trying to lay the boom on someone and this guy, is that this guy wraps up while he hits you. The downsides are while the balls in the air. He doesn't always look to separate his man and the ball with his hands. He uses his shoulder pads, which isn't going to work as much as it did in college.
CBs
Aaron Williams - Cunningham says he doesn't like to draft CBs but we'll see. Here's a guy that can be physical. I just don't know if he's a sure tackler in the NFL, I think you can certainly coach him up to be one. He made the tackles in college, so it's hard to knock him on that. He'd be a good second round pick if he's there. He really does everything well. He does a fantastic job of reading the WR while the balls in the air. He looks like a safe pick to me, with minimal potential. I really like this guy, it's hard to find a knock on him. I can list everything a CB needs and it's going to be good. He has an arrogance about him on the field I think you need as a CB. He doesn't look nearly as raw as a lot of the other CBs. Him and Houston would be great duo and alphonso at nickel.
Rashad Carmichael - Extremely athletic really sums him up well. He can make mistakes and make up for it with his speed. Doesn't like to wrap up when he tackles. He's good when the balls in the air. Less polished than Aaron Williams, but has much more upside.
Kendric Burney - The last CB I'll be mentioning, because I think at least one of the previous mentioned CBs will be available and I think you go with on of them. Loves to hit people, loves sticking his nose in the run game, and good speed. Seems to has tight hips, but makes up for in balls skills. He needs to learn how to turn around though in the NFL. Needs to learn how to close in better while the balls in the air on underneath routes.
LBs
Bruce Carter - It sounds like several LBs are turning into third round selections, so I will mention most of them there. Here's a guy with great footwork in both running and passing. He seems to be keying in on the backfield instead of his read. Doesn't look like a big play guy, but he has the ability to. He's athletic and a big guy. I thinks he's absolutely phenomenal in the passing game. He seems to understand his responsibility is to make tackles and to turn the RB inside to the MLB. He just seems to lack the wow factor. Projecting to be a mid-late second round guy.
Mason Foster - Boy do I love this guy. He's projected to be a second to third round pick. If he's there in the third round you take him. He's everything the Lions haven't been at defense. He's a sure tackler. Who would hate the idea of having a guy that's going to make the tackle when he puts himself in the right situation. Seems to have trouble shedding blocks. He has great instincts and seems to get the concept of a team. Every time it seems like he plugged the gap when he was play-side and kept his outside should free. I truly believe he's reading his keys, because he just seems to get to the right spot in a hurry. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZJ69c8Wcj4&feature=related go to 1:49 and play it and let me know if you like his tackling technique. He's not bad in zone or man coverage but not great. When I watched the tape on Stanford it seemed like he was a patient pass rusher and seemed to get the QB. If can get him in the third round or get two second round picks and get him, I'll be ecstatic. Just watching the Stanford game I fell in love with him. He's not going to be a big contributor in the passing game and that's why he's projected to be this low in the draft.
Round three guys coming to you later and there's going to be a few LBs including one from MSU. The Detroit Roar over and out.
Second Round prospects:
Tackles
Gabe Carimi - He's not going to overpower anyone in the NFL and seems to lack that power punch. I love his footwork and it looks completely natural to him. Several of the bigger tackles you can seem them having good footwork, but because it isn't natural they tend to take to many steps and to much room for athletic DEs. I don't see him blowing anyone five yards back, but he always seems to have his head in the right place. He engages second level guys and stays attached very well. I think he's going to be taken in the first round, but I believe he's an early second round kind of guy.
Benjamin Ijalana - He's a big tackle that I think that come in and play but lacks athleticism. He has trouble getting on second level guys. He should be given some leeway there because part of the problem was the offensive scheme. I first saw him, I thought they were passing on every play which was wrong. He does a good job of setting up the same way every time, but because they were a shotgun team he head very little pressure on his down hand. He seemed to gulf up DEs in the passing and running game and had his way with them in D1 AA. I'd say he's a little raw in the passing game. He tends to let people into him and then engulfs them instead of throwing his big old bear claws at them.
Centers
Mike Pouncey - Doubt he'll be a day two guy, but if he is he's just as good as his brother. His brother has only been in the league for the year, but I truly believe that this is the kind of guy you draft in the second round and he's with you for the next 15 years as a pro bowl caliber center. A Jason Hanson at the center position. High reward minimal risk kind of guy. You'll probably hear that he might have trouble with QBs under center, I highly doubt that.
Stefen Wisniewski - This guy his flat out going to be a stud in this league, which translates into his name won't be mentioned. He's an intelligent guy. He has a 4.0, but lets put that in context. He's a secondary education major. He's a guy that looks like he loves playing the game. Pouncey is a little more athletic, but that's not a knock on him by any means. I got to imagine coming form Joe Pa he'll have that old school mentality like his LBs do.
Safeties
Rahim Moore - I absolutely love this guy. He's not an athletic enough to be a top ten pick, but man he seems to have a high football IQ. I'll say this you really can't see a guys football IQ by watching him on film. I've never really seen a safety that wasn't keying in the backfield, but when I asked myself why his he missing stepping there and sure enough the Guard and center gave him that look. I don't know their scheme and probably shouldn't guess, but they way it looked to me is he's reading center or guard depending on alignment to the backfield. UCLA's defense just looked like an atrocity. He made way to many tackles in the running game, too many blockers were allowed to get to him, but yet he made just about every tackle. This guy is a sure tackler. He comes into the lane and hits RBs before they even get going sometimes. I was really impressed with his speed. He seemed to be 15 yards back and on a WR screen he was there in a heart beat to make the solo tackle for a very minimal gain on 2nd and 3. He's good in the pass game as well, good hips, decent balls skills, great instincts, good athleticism, and seems to be where he needs to be. Would be a fantastic addition to the Lions.
Quinton Carter - He's a guy that loves to hit. My personal opinion is that this guy is a early to mid second round guy, but doesn't fit the Lions need. This guy is very similar to Delmas likes to really smack someone. Good in the running game and rushing the QB. I'd prefer more of a ball hawk at FS. He'd be an upgrade. He's a guy that was mentioned has having extremely high character. Donates his time and started his own Non-profit company. To some people that might not sound like to big of a deal, but the time commitment is unbelievable. A high percentage of these guys struggle with time management with playing football and academics and honestly it's a tough thing to do. To have time to start a company and run it and then on top of that voluntary his time, really is amazing and should get praise for that. As far as football he's an athletic guy, with great speed, and tacklers like Ed Reed. The difference between the Lions trying to lay the boom on someone and this guy, is that this guy wraps up while he hits you. The downsides are while the balls in the air. He doesn't always look to separate his man and the ball with his hands. He uses his shoulder pads, which isn't going to work as much as it did in college.
CBs
Aaron Williams - Cunningham says he doesn't like to draft CBs but we'll see. Here's a guy that can be physical. I just don't know if he's a sure tackler in the NFL, I think you can certainly coach him up to be one. He made the tackles in college, so it's hard to knock him on that. He'd be a good second round pick if he's there. He really does everything well. He does a fantastic job of reading the WR while the balls in the air. He looks like a safe pick to me, with minimal potential. I really like this guy, it's hard to find a knock on him. I can list everything a CB needs and it's going to be good. He has an arrogance about him on the field I think you need as a CB. He doesn't look nearly as raw as a lot of the other CBs. Him and Houston would be great duo and alphonso at nickel.
Rashad Carmichael - Extremely athletic really sums him up well. He can make mistakes and make up for it with his speed. Doesn't like to wrap up when he tackles. He's good when the balls in the air. Less polished than Aaron Williams, but has much more upside.
Kendric Burney - The last CB I'll be mentioning, because I think at least one of the previous mentioned CBs will be available and I think you go with on of them. Loves to hit people, loves sticking his nose in the run game, and good speed. Seems to has tight hips, but makes up for in balls skills. He needs to learn how to turn around though in the NFL. Needs to learn how to close in better while the balls in the air on underneath routes.
LBs
Bruce Carter - It sounds like several LBs are turning into third round selections, so I will mention most of them there. Here's a guy with great footwork in both running and passing. He seems to be keying in on the backfield instead of his read. Doesn't look like a big play guy, but he has the ability to. He's athletic and a big guy. I thinks he's absolutely phenomenal in the passing game. He seems to understand his responsibility is to make tackles and to turn the RB inside to the MLB. He just seems to lack the wow factor. Projecting to be a mid-late second round guy.
Mason Foster - Boy do I love this guy. He's projected to be a second to third round pick. If he's there in the third round you take him. He's everything the Lions haven't been at defense. He's a sure tackler. Who would hate the idea of having a guy that's going to make the tackle when he puts himself in the right situation. Seems to have trouble shedding blocks. He has great instincts and seems to get the concept of a team. Every time it seems like he plugged the gap when he was play-side and kept his outside should free. I truly believe he's reading his keys, because he just seems to get to the right spot in a hurry. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZJ69c8Wcj4&feature=related go to 1:49 and play it and let me know if you like his tackling technique. He's not bad in zone or man coverage but not great. When I watched the tape on Stanford it seemed like he was a patient pass rusher and seemed to get the QB. If can get him in the third round or get two second round picks and get him, I'll be ecstatic. Just watching the Stanford game I fell in love with him. He's not going to be a big contributor in the passing game and that's why he's projected to be this low in the draft.
Round three guys coming to you later and there's going to be a few LBs including one from MSU. The Detroit Roar over and out.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
2011 Detroit NFL draft 1st round trading down scenarios
I was told I met the CPA standards to sit for the CPA exam, so there's something to celebrate for. Anyways, I seem year after year minus last year want to trade down.
Possible trade partners:
St. Louis (14) - They're a pick behind us and want a skill position (boy I hate saying skill position, please someone come up with something better and let me know). We're not a threat at taking Julio, but St. Louis should be worried about someone else moving up to get Julio here, like the Patriots. I remember a year when I believe the Browns traded up one spot to take Kellen Winslow and we moved one spot back to get Big catch big drop Roy Williams. That would get us a fifth and a sixth round pick and we could possible move back again.
Miami (15) - They want the same thing except it sounds li0ke they want Ingram. They know St. Louis isn't interested in Ingram with Steven Jackson. Like the Rams they might want to guarantee themselves the guy they want. Trust me when I say the Patriots have ammo of trading up. Personally I think the Patriots are going to reload and give up a first round pick to the Raiders. This is worth a fourth and a fifth and the two taken off the board are Julio Jones and Mark Ingram. The only person disagreeing and wondering what the Lions are doing is Matt Millen.
Patriots (17) - They also have the 28th pick and could want to finally make a splash in the draft instead of moving down. Like I said I think they're going to continue to reload, if I had guess they'll trade a first round pick to the Raiders for a future and probably like a second rounder. Now for the above mentioned the Patriots might want to move up ahead of the two to get their skilled player. This would get us a third and a sixth rounder.
Saints (24) - If they want to be an actual dual threat on offense they need a RB like Ingram. There could honestly be five tackles off the board by this pick. Ayers and Harris could be gone. Possibilities here are from most likely to least likely are: Castonzo, Jimmy Smith, Justin Houston, Sherrod, Carimi, Brandon Harris and Ayers. We'd get a second, fourth, and a sixth. I actually like Justin Houston, he's got good footwork, a noise for the ball, and seems to make good reads. He can sit in his zone. He's not nearly as athletic or as good in pass coverage as Ayers and keep in mind he's another DE/OLB.
Prospects of moving down (not yet talked about):
Jimmy Smith - This is a guy that can play the game. My biggest concern is can he handle some of the big WR in the NFL. He's faster and has better ball skills than Prince. Not to get into Prince, but Prince is better because he's more polished (footwork, hips, hands, and instincts). He really struggles tackling and getting goff blocks, doesn't look comfortable sitting and reading the qb in a zone. He'll probably never wow you or be an elite talent in the league, but I could see him being in the league for a while because he's a consistent player that seems to be able to bat every ball away when he's in the area.
Brandon Harris - Appropriate to go straight to Harris after Smith. Harris doesn't have the ball skills Smith has incredible speed. This is a guy that has the wow factor and he doesn't mind hitting someone. He kind of reminds me of Ernie, doesn't have the instincts, but he makes up for in speed. Thankfully for him he plays a different position. I never was a fan of Ernie I believe he get all the hype because nobody watched the Lions and saw how many tackles he had ever though they were all from behind 10 yards down the field.
Constonzo - Everyone seems to say he's a high IQ guy. I don't see him being a starter anytime soon. He's a leaner and can never seem to get his weight directly underneath himself. Good run blocker, he gets to the second level.
Possible trade partners:
St. Louis (14) - They're a pick behind us and want a skill position (boy I hate saying skill position, please someone come up with something better and let me know). We're not a threat at taking Julio, but St. Louis should be worried about someone else moving up to get Julio here, like the Patriots. I remember a year when I believe the Browns traded up one spot to take Kellen Winslow and we moved one spot back to get Big catch big drop Roy Williams. That would get us a fifth and a sixth round pick and we could possible move back again.
Miami (15) - They want the same thing except it sounds li0ke they want Ingram. They know St. Louis isn't interested in Ingram with Steven Jackson. Like the Rams they might want to guarantee themselves the guy they want. Trust me when I say the Patriots have ammo of trading up. Personally I think the Patriots are going to reload and give up a first round pick to the Raiders. This is worth a fourth and a fifth and the two taken off the board are Julio Jones and Mark Ingram. The only person disagreeing and wondering what the Lions are doing is Matt Millen.
Patriots (17) - They also have the 28th pick and could want to finally make a splash in the draft instead of moving down. Like I said I think they're going to continue to reload, if I had guess they'll trade a first round pick to the Raiders for a future and probably like a second rounder. Now for the above mentioned the Patriots might want to move up ahead of the two to get their skilled player. This would get us a third and a sixth rounder.
Saints (24) - If they want to be an actual dual threat on offense they need a RB like Ingram. There could honestly be five tackles off the board by this pick. Ayers and Harris could be gone. Possibilities here are from most likely to least likely are: Castonzo, Jimmy Smith, Justin Houston, Sherrod, Carimi, Brandon Harris and Ayers. We'd get a second, fourth, and a sixth. I actually like Justin Houston, he's got good footwork, a noise for the ball, and seems to make good reads. He can sit in his zone. He's not nearly as athletic or as good in pass coverage as Ayers and keep in mind he's another DE/OLB.
Prospects of moving down (not yet talked about):
Jimmy Smith - This is a guy that can play the game. My biggest concern is can he handle some of the big WR in the NFL. He's faster and has better ball skills than Prince. Not to get into Prince, but Prince is better because he's more polished (footwork, hips, hands, and instincts). He really struggles tackling and getting goff blocks, doesn't look comfortable sitting and reading the qb in a zone. He'll probably never wow you or be an elite talent in the league, but I could see him being in the league for a while because he's a consistent player that seems to be able to bat every ball away when he's in the area.
Brandon Harris - Appropriate to go straight to Harris after Smith. Harris doesn't have the ball skills Smith has incredible speed. This is a guy that has the wow factor and he doesn't mind hitting someone. He kind of reminds me of Ernie, doesn't have the instincts, but he makes up for in speed. Thankfully for him he plays a different position. I never was a fan of Ernie I believe he get all the hype because nobody watched the Lions and saw how many tackles he had ever though they were all from behind 10 yards down the field.
Constonzo - Everyone seems to say he's a high IQ guy. I don't see him being a starter anytime soon. He's a leaner and can never seem to get his weight directly underneath himself. Good run blocker, he gets to the second level.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
2011 Detroit NFL draft 1st round trading up scenarios
I'm going to use ESPN's pick value chart to try and exclude biases. I think a big question we have to ask ourself is how many of these elite tackles are going to be available in the 2nd round for us. I believe it was 2008 when offensive lineman just ran of the board and some were reaches. I've seen almost all of the top 5 tackles taken at 13.
Trading up
I think trading up is only worth 3 players, those being Peterson, Prince, and Miller. These are kind of best case scenarios that are realistic.
I'm not that high on Miller and this still pre-combine. Everyones stock can easily go up and down. To me Miller is just speed rush DE, but I know a lot of you are really high on him. Lets say he's available at 8. 8 is worth 1400 and 13 is worth 1150. Which means your giving up your 1st, 3rd, 5th, and 7th round pick for Miller. I'd rather go Brandon Harris at 13, T in the 2nd round, and a LB in the third round. I think there's going to be a couple of decent LB in the third round a Greg Jones, Casey Matthews, Strudivant, or Hightower. If prince and Miller are still on the board do we really move up to take Miller, No. Prince is off the board for Miller, I'll give up a 4th round pick. A 4th round pick sounds extremely unrealistic.
Prince is so highly touted. Numerous mock drafts have him going at 9, so that's were I'm going to have us trade up. Your giving up a 1st and a 3rd round pick for Prince according to the chart. If someone says you give us the 13th pick and your 3rd round pick and you get prince, I'm taking that in a heartbeat. A 1st and a 2nd is worth contemplating. Let me know what you guys think. With a rookie scale coming in, higher draft picks don't hurt you nearly as much. The big question is will we still have the complex rookie contracts? I think giving up a 2nd round for Prince is worth it. We get that elite talent at CB, but we lose a LB or a T in the second round.
Peterson, I'm calling him this years Suh. He's that elite talent that you insert and he's a top talent in the league. I've seen him at 7 with everyone apparently moving up. Personally on my big board he's one and Green is two. Him falling to 7 actually is realistic. We would give up a 1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th. We don't have a 7th round pick and besides teams tend to over pay when moving up for a guy anyways. Lets just say we give up a 1st and 2nd. This is ridiculously good. Any you won't take this in a heartbeat, your going to have to enlighten me.
Monday, February 14, 2011
The 2011 Detroit Lions draft needs - Day 1 guys
It's 2/14/11 and I'd hate to waste the main topic that's on all our minds without any followers as this is my first real post, but it's a topic that can be brought back up several different times as we are still pre-combine dates. Lets face it the NFL draft has been out Super Bowl as long as I can remember. I think the first thing that needs to be addressed is the needs. We all know what they are, but what we prioritize is up for debate. So I'd love to hear from you. This is my list:
1. CB
2. LB
3. G
4. WR
5. S
1 and 2, 4 and 5 for me were tough calls. I believe in starting a defense from the inside out. The LBs are the main group of guys on any defense. At 4 and 5 it's just a matter how much you believe in Spievey. Maybe you don't believe a safety is a need I can see that. I can hear some of you saying why isn't tackle up there and I'd love to hear from you with your reasoning, but the reason i don't is that if you get a tackle your going to kick in one of those tackles in at guard and we still have a good backup tackle. Now we all know the sexy names we all want cough Peterson cough, and I'm not going to waste your time talking about why we would want them. Maybe tomorrow I'll post up trading up and down. Here are guys below that I think we can realistically get and that meet a need.
First Round
There's nobody I really like here at 13, but assuming no trades here we go
Nate Solder - Everyone has a taking him. It's not sexy, but he kicks either Cherilus or Backus inside to play guard. He's a very raw player, but as everyone always says with raw players the potential with this kid is through the roof. He has good footwork it's just not quick enough, his balance is off in pass blocking, doesn't delivery a good first blow, and really struggles with the speed rush. Love him in the running game, gets to the second level and plays through the whistle. I don't know that he protects Stafford that much better early in his career.
Brandon Harris - This just seems to early for him, but we'll see how he runs. Probably best CB available (maybe Jimmy Smith). He's fast and has good ball skills. He can come in and be a starter on this team. I think he'd have his up and downs. Not as many picks as Alphonso had this year, but considerably less big plays. I think most importantly he's a guy that could be a good CB in this league eventually just not right away.
Akeem Ayers - In Cunningham's scheme the DL rush the QB and tackle the RB if they're on their path. I don't know if I explained that very well, but the main message is the LBs in his scheme are crucial to the running game. I look at Ayers and go that's the kind of guy I want playing outside LB for me, then I turn on the tape and he plays on his heels. He really is on the balls of his feet, but I feel like he plays pass first run second. He doesn't get in the gap and lay a hurt on someone. This last year at least I didn't get sick of seeing 3 LBs in the same gap. In a 4-3 scheme I believe the MLB makes nearly every tackle on a running play. Play side LB, is one gap ahead, MLB runs with, and backside is a gap behind the RB. Ayers has great speed and truly believe he has the speed to get to a lot of spots. I feel like he has great hips in the pass and run game. He's a good pass rusher. I feel he lacks instinct, the first step as I like to call it. I feel like I'm calling a Teddy Lehman (third down specialist). I just feel like you should get more at the 13 pick. Ayers can be I great player if he comes into the league with an outstanding work ethic and passion. I see him being average and average is a huge step up for us. He would play immediately, play great in the passing game, and help in the running.
I just don't love anyone at 13, I'd love these guys in the 20's. I think this year QBs running good 40 times helps us tremendously. Combine could really hurt or improve all of the QBs and any of the QBs taken inside of 13 helps us out. You look at all the big time QBs and 1 out of 4 is a pocket passer. I think 40s for the stupidest reason is really going to effect every single one of them including Mallet. Gabbert, Newton, and Locker can really help themselves out by running a good 40 time.
Let me hear your comments, questions, or who else you want me to talk about in the first round or anything else. This is our blog. The Detroit Roar over and out.
1. CB
2. LB
3. G
4. WR
5. S
1 and 2, 4 and 5 for me were tough calls. I believe in starting a defense from the inside out. The LBs are the main group of guys on any defense. At 4 and 5 it's just a matter how much you believe in Spievey. Maybe you don't believe a safety is a need I can see that. I can hear some of you saying why isn't tackle up there and I'd love to hear from you with your reasoning, but the reason i don't is that if you get a tackle your going to kick in one of those tackles in at guard and we still have a good backup tackle. Now we all know the sexy names we all want cough Peterson cough, and I'm not going to waste your time talking about why we would want them. Maybe tomorrow I'll post up trading up and down. Here are guys below that I think we can realistically get and that meet a need.
First Round
There's nobody I really like here at 13, but assuming no trades here we go
Nate Solder - Everyone has a taking him. It's not sexy, but he kicks either Cherilus or Backus inside to play guard. He's a very raw player, but as everyone always says with raw players the potential with this kid is through the roof. He has good footwork it's just not quick enough, his balance is off in pass blocking, doesn't delivery a good first blow, and really struggles with the speed rush. Love him in the running game, gets to the second level and plays through the whistle. I don't know that he protects Stafford that much better early in his career.
Brandon Harris - This just seems to early for him, but we'll see how he runs. Probably best CB available (maybe Jimmy Smith). He's fast and has good ball skills. He can come in and be a starter on this team. I think he'd have his up and downs. Not as many picks as Alphonso had this year, but considerably less big plays. I think most importantly he's a guy that could be a good CB in this league eventually just not right away.
Akeem Ayers - In Cunningham's scheme the DL rush the QB and tackle the RB if they're on their path. I don't know if I explained that very well, but the main message is the LBs in his scheme are crucial to the running game. I look at Ayers and go that's the kind of guy I want playing outside LB for me, then I turn on the tape and he plays on his heels. He really is on the balls of his feet, but I feel like he plays pass first run second. He doesn't get in the gap and lay a hurt on someone. This last year at least I didn't get sick of seeing 3 LBs in the same gap. In a 4-3 scheme I believe the MLB makes nearly every tackle on a running play. Play side LB, is one gap ahead, MLB runs with, and backside is a gap behind the RB. Ayers has great speed and truly believe he has the speed to get to a lot of spots. I feel like he has great hips in the pass and run game. He's a good pass rusher. I feel he lacks instinct, the first step as I like to call it. I feel like I'm calling a Teddy Lehman (third down specialist). I just feel like you should get more at the 13 pick. Ayers can be I great player if he comes into the league with an outstanding work ethic and passion. I see him being average and average is a huge step up for us. He would play immediately, play great in the passing game, and help in the running.
I just don't love anyone at 13, I'd love these guys in the 20's. I think this year QBs running good 40 times helps us tremendously. Combine could really hurt or improve all of the QBs and any of the QBs taken inside of 13 helps us out. You look at all the big time QBs and 1 out of 4 is a pocket passer. I think 40s for the stupidest reason is really going to effect every single one of them including Mallet. Gabbert, Newton, and Locker can really help themselves out by running a good 40 time.
Let me hear your comments, questions, or who else you want me to talk about in the first round or anything else. This is our blog. The Detroit Roar over and out.
About me and our blog
I am currently in my last semester in college studying for my CPA. It will be tough for me to get that many posts till June, as I spend several hours a day on campus studying. I am a life long Detroit fan and sadly traveled to Lambeau field to see the Lions cap off a year that was heartbreaking in 2008. Thats all I want to say about that, because I think we're closing to turning the corner. The reason I started this blog is because I got sick and tired of the blogs on the Lions. Lets face it ESPNs NFC blogger Kevin is terrible. I want this blog to be about you guys and gals. I am going to blog on topics I receive from you and post your comments as much as I can. This is The Detroit Roar. This blog will probably be heavily concentrated on the Detroit Lions, but we can certainly talk about the Tigers, Red Wings, UM, and MSU. The Detroit Roar over and out.
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