We're still over 3 months away from the first preseason game. From this point forward though we have a good idea of who will be starting. Have to say just based on the division improvements I'm a little worried.
We picked up three quality starting players in the draft. Ansah should start and you would hope that with the 5th pick. Slay isn't a starting quality, but our CBs aren't very good so he might. Larry Warford should start day one at guard. I think Theo Riddick will get some snaps just as long as he can block in the NFL. He should line up in the slot every now and then, but you have to imagine Scheffler will get a lot of those snaps over him. He provides depth at WR, TE, and RB and different packages. He's obviously a RB, but you may see more two RB packages where a TE or WR is coming out. Sam Martin should start day one. Devin Taylor is a project, but the nice thing is he really just needs to bulk up. He should be in rotational snaps. He has high potential. Corey Fuller may not see a snap. He's extremely fast and raw like most of the draft picks. He needs to learn to put the ball away, route running, and improve his catching. Michael Williams is a guy that should be in on goal line situations. He probably won't get Heller playing time, because he doesn't have that speed. Hopefully we'll see a lot more goal line packages with Leshoure. The best teams have the ability to just hand it off down near the goal line.
Offensive line
Michael Williams will provide a nice addition to blocking. Raiola C, Sims G, Warford G, Fox RT, and Reiff LT is the potential starting lineup. We're going to see if the coaching staff has it. They either drafted a good project and coached him up right or the complete opposite. He was a guy that supposedly fell because of an injury in the draft. Well his time has come and it sounds like they have faith in him and Hillard. Fox has had injury problems so if you think Fox is the guy you have to have faith in Hillard too provide depth at about every position. Nagy will also provide much needed depth at interior. He'll push for the starting job against Warford, but may also push Railoa. Nagy might be taking over once Raiola is gone. If this line works out this will be an extremely young line. It really comes down to Fox and Nagy. It might be something that gets addressed next year. Once the first two tackles came off the board I think it was smart of the Lions to not taking a tackle. We didn't need another Jason Fox development project.
Running back
It's a full backfield. You have to like Bush in that shotgun set. Leshoure the power running back, Riddick the smaller versatile all around back that can go to the slot, and Joique Bell that is that all around bigger back.It comes down to if the Lions can run from the shotgun set. It's a difficult thing to do. I know everyone talks about less in the box. From the shotgun set you're not going downhill and lineman are in a farther back 2 point. It's more WR blocking. Realistically you're looking at one unblocked LB with not a lot of traffic to fight through.
Tight ends
You're looking at an impressive on paper group. Scheffler, Pettigrew, and Williams. Scheffler being you're slot WR, Pettigrew you're all around TE, and Williams being you're blocking TE. They signed Fauria who is an athletic TE that might be the understudy to Scheffler. I really like Fauria. You may not see him this year, but hopefully the future. My biggest concern is Scheffler has been dropping passes and Pettigrew has been dropping passes and losing the ball. Guys know and they'll be going after him. I hope he's made an adjustment this off season.
Quarterback
If you don't know Stafford is the starter. Shaun Hill is a quality backup and Kellen Moore hopefully never sees the field because he doesn't have it.
Wide receiver
You're looking at a lot of Calvin, Burleson, and Broyles. You're probably going to see a lot of 3 WR, 1 TE, and 1 RB sets. Nobody to really stretch the field opposite of CJ. Hopefully Burleson and Broyles stays healthy. Without a Young immature WR screwing things up. You look at and the WR should be better especially with Bush and Riddick. You have to realize without Fuller on the field a safety moves up and a safety slides towards CJ. Hopefully the running game will affect the defensive alignment opening up lanes for the WRs.
Defensive line
This is where things get interesting. Fairley will be starting and will hopefully have the conditioning to keep it up. The quality depth isn't quite there across the line. This is where the Lions is different from every other defense. The d line is supposed to penetrate up field and create havoc. This opens up running lanes and doesn't protect the LBs. Ansah, Suh, Fairley, and Jones. The subs will have to do the same thing. They need to collapse the pocket, get to the QB, and throw the RB off his route. Most importantly make plays back there. Can't continued to get trapped or whammed for 20 yards.
Linebackers
There's Tulloch and there's Levy and then ummm. There's no real starter strong side. Tulloch wasn't his reliable tackling self and as he's getting older I'm a little worried. Levy isn't exactly a stud and we're not going to be bringing in a stud. The LBs will need all the help they can get from CBs and D line in the running game. This is a very quick group that do well in the passing game and should continue to do so. This isn't a group that blitzes well. With the d line told to get to the quarterback they need too not the LBs. LBs need to come up make a good read and make good quality tackles in the hole. Keep the safeties from needing to come up opening up the back end of the defense.
Safeties
Delmas and Quin are great athletic guys. My biggest problem is there is no depth absolutely none. I don't trust Spievey. He's been picked on. Health is the biggest thing here. Delmas can cover up mistakes, but he need to be out there. Quin is a great safety. It's going to make a difference having two top tier safeties if their healthy.
Cornerbacks
Talk about an interesting group. Mayhew talks highly of every d back he drafted last year. I think this is another position area where we're at least a year away from being a contender. We have a lot of nickelbacks. I know I said last year Houston was a #2 CB, but he made me eat my words. I realize he sucked one game against the Falcons at primetime. He played extremely well every other game. Bentley, Greenwod, and Slay are nickle CBs. One of them is going to have to step up and make a big improvement. Greenwood we knew was a project so I don't expect him to see the field much. Jonte Green played well for a late round CB and showed he could do it. He got burnt too many times. He's a depth guy. Whose across from Houston, I'm not sure. I think Bentley is the leader. Hopefully we have a playmaker in this group. With having Greenwood and Bentley injured most the year we're not really sure what we have. Slay had a torn meniscus who even knows that he'll be ready at the start of the season.
The offense is really missing a guy to stretch the field vertical. It seemed like last year it was a team that needed a big play to score. Hopefully with Broyles and Burleson across the middle can be more of a chain moving group. Leshoure should be healthier to pound up the middle. The defense is shaky in pretty much every area. There's no depth anywhere on defense. Hopefully Ansah can be a playmaker.
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Saturday, April 27, 2013
Detroit Lions 2013 Draft
Like so many people predicted myself not included correctly had us taking the Ziggy.
Ziggy
With both tackles gone the Dolphins already moved up I think the Lions were in a tough spot. If you have seen or read anything you've heard everything. High risk high reward guy. Not a lot of experience. Strong, quick, and has long arms. There's really not a lot too say here. We need someone to get to the QB hopefully he can do that. I'm not in love with the pick, but I think they took on a chance they've been able to really get their hands on. He sounds like a high quality character good which is always good.
Darius Slay
Fastest CB at the combine. Great ball skills and good size. He's a little bit of a project. I don't think he's a plug in starter, but is a nickel package guy. On our current roster though who knows. Right coaching he could be a great CB. He's someone to be excited about. Got great hips. He has the ability just needs some coaching and experience. I think he was worth the pick. Otherwise you're looking at Warford, Armstead, or a WR here.
Larry Warford
I would have been happy for him at the second round pick. He's a big beast with good athleticism. We're picking up a starter here in the third round. Which is good value. I think he fell because so many teams had already picked a lineman. This fills a hole on the OL.
Devin Taylor
Interesting pick. I think the Lions clearly still want to get to the QB. I think this guy could start. The work that needs to be done with him is strength. He has some impressive moves. Has a nice swim move, which is hard to time and get it right. He has really long arm and bats down some balls which I'm excited about. He was a beast 2 years ago and then this past year didn't have quite the same year. I think we'll definitely see him on the field next year. Just needs to bulk up and could be a beast. I like the pick.
Sam Martin
Wasn't very familiar with him. I knew the Lions had brought him in. This guy has a leg. He also handled kickoffs. He can put the correct spin on the ball to down it inside the 10. This guy has an unreal leg though. Until you see it it's hard to believe the hang time and distance on the fly this guy has. I got a little worried about out kicking coverage, but his hang time is great. I didn't see him angle any punts which is a concern. He'll be a day one starter at a position that has killed us. I was advocating a punter and kicker. We got one of the too and looks like this is where they were going.
Corey Fuller
Interesting pick. This is a track guy that struggled catching the ball at the combine. He'll be a project. I"m curious to see him hand fight against a press. I didn't see any film. One thing that popped out is that he does not tuck the ball away. I'm curious how many fumbles he has. I thought he made some good catches and catches the ball well with his hands. Megatron, Fuller stretching the field vertically, and Broyles in the slot could be a great combination for years to come.
Theo Riddick
He is a system fit guy. He has a little shift can go in the slot. Played a lot in the shotgun sets. Catches the ball well. He is use to running from the shotgun set and it's his style. It is a hard thing to do as I've said several times. He can also help in the return game. I think we had needs fill out on the defensive side to help in the coverage teams. With RBs constantly hurt this isn't a terrible pick. More RBs might limit the hits of other RBs and increase the already short NFL careers. I still think the best player is going to be out there.
Michael Williams
What you see is what you get. I'm sure this was a targeted guy to replace Heller. He blocks well and has good recognition. A goal line TE. Can catch the ball, but he's not going to go out for too many passes. Can definitely help with some concerns at the tackle position protecting Stafford. He doesn't have quite the speed that Heller has. I think he has good hands though like Heller. I do think Reddick LB should have been the pick.
Brandon Hepburn
A guy that has special teams experience. He's an ILB that is 240 that definitely doesn't look 240. A guy that passes the eye ball test. Haven't seen any game film on him out of Florida A&M. Great footwork at the combine. I think he'll contribute. Think this was a great pick. He sounds like an extremely high character guy. Extremely smart guy.
The Lions need to go out and sign some defensive players. They should bring in some WRs, but defense needs to be their priority. They only got one seventh round LB. They'll still need special team guys. Their wasn't a kicker available late worth drafting with the FSU and UF kickers gone. With Sam Martin we'll need some flyers that can cover those punts. I wouldn't mind if they went out and got Da'Rick Rogers.
Ziggy
With both tackles gone the Dolphins already moved up I think the Lions were in a tough spot. If you have seen or read anything you've heard everything. High risk high reward guy. Not a lot of experience. Strong, quick, and has long arms. There's really not a lot too say here. We need someone to get to the QB hopefully he can do that. I'm not in love with the pick, but I think they took on a chance they've been able to really get their hands on. He sounds like a high quality character good which is always good.
Darius Slay
Fastest CB at the combine. Great ball skills and good size. He's a little bit of a project. I don't think he's a plug in starter, but is a nickel package guy. On our current roster though who knows. Right coaching he could be a great CB. He's someone to be excited about. Got great hips. He has the ability just needs some coaching and experience. I think he was worth the pick. Otherwise you're looking at Warford, Armstead, or a WR here.
Larry Warford
I would have been happy for him at the second round pick. He's a big beast with good athleticism. We're picking up a starter here in the third round. Which is good value. I think he fell because so many teams had already picked a lineman. This fills a hole on the OL.
Devin Taylor
Interesting pick. I think the Lions clearly still want to get to the QB. I think this guy could start. The work that needs to be done with him is strength. He has some impressive moves. Has a nice swim move, which is hard to time and get it right. He has really long arm and bats down some balls which I'm excited about. He was a beast 2 years ago and then this past year didn't have quite the same year. I think we'll definitely see him on the field next year. Just needs to bulk up and could be a beast. I like the pick.
Sam Martin
Wasn't very familiar with him. I knew the Lions had brought him in. This guy has a leg. He also handled kickoffs. He can put the correct spin on the ball to down it inside the 10. This guy has an unreal leg though. Until you see it it's hard to believe the hang time and distance on the fly this guy has. I got a little worried about out kicking coverage, but his hang time is great. I didn't see him angle any punts which is a concern. He'll be a day one starter at a position that has killed us. I was advocating a punter and kicker. We got one of the too and looks like this is where they were going.
Corey Fuller
Interesting pick. This is a track guy that struggled catching the ball at the combine. He'll be a project. I"m curious to see him hand fight against a press. I didn't see any film. One thing that popped out is that he does not tuck the ball away. I'm curious how many fumbles he has. I thought he made some good catches and catches the ball well with his hands. Megatron, Fuller stretching the field vertically, and Broyles in the slot could be a great combination for years to come.
Theo Riddick
He is a system fit guy. He has a little shift can go in the slot. Played a lot in the shotgun sets. Catches the ball well. He is use to running from the shotgun set and it's his style. It is a hard thing to do as I've said several times. He can also help in the return game. I think we had needs fill out on the defensive side to help in the coverage teams. With RBs constantly hurt this isn't a terrible pick. More RBs might limit the hits of other RBs and increase the already short NFL careers. I still think the best player is going to be out there.
Michael Williams
What you see is what you get. I'm sure this was a targeted guy to replace Heller. He blocks well and has good recognition. A goal line TE. Can catch the ball, but he's not going to go out for too many passes. Can definitely help with some concerns at the tackle position protecting Stafford. He doesn't have quite the speed that Heller has. I think he has good hands though like Heller. I do think Reddick LB should have been the pick.
Brandon Hepburn
A guy that has special teams experience. He's an ILB that is 240 that definitely doesn't look 240. A guy that passes the eye ball test. Haven't seen any game film on him out of Florida A&M. Great footwork at the combine. I think he'll contribute. Think this was a great pick. He sounds like an extremely high character guy. Extremely smart guy.
The Lions need to go out and sign some defensive players. They should bring in some WRs, but defense needs to be their priority. They only got one seventh round LB. They'll still need special team guys. Their wasn't a kicker available late worth drafting with the FSU and UF kickers gone. With Sam Martin we'll need some flyers that can cover those punts. I wouldn't mind if they went out and got Da'Rick Rogers.
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Lions Trading Down Options Mock Draft
First pick is who I think they'll draft and then who I think they should draft. Everything is based off of who I think they'll draft though.
1st Round
Chiefs
Luke Joeckel LT
Same
This isn't a lock yet.
Jaguars
Dion Jordan DE
Eric Fisher LT
A lot of picks just seem so much in the air. Dominoes fall at one and only continue at 2 affecting every other pick behind it. I think they're going to want a big fast flashy guy.
Raiders
Star Lotulelei DT
Same
I know people have Floyd here now because of the medical condition. Star is a rare prospect and fits their new scheme much better. He's also yet to stomp on a player's face and deny it.
Eagles
Eric Fisher LT
Same
They need help. With Star gone I think this becomes an easy pick.
Dolphins from the Lions
Dee Miliner CB
Same
I think the Lions try to trade down. I struggle thinking people are this in love with Johnson. People might love Miliner and you have to figure that's who the Lions take. If not the Lions the Browns. Lions get the 12th and the 42nd pick. Lions have several needs and will get help filling them. The Dolphins get a big physical CB that I don't think the Lions love. Lions would take Miliner here.
Browns
Ansah DE
Floyd DT
They might not see Floyd as a system fit. I think he is. I don't think he's the athlete at the same size that Star is and that is why I don't have him going before him. The Browns need someone to get to the QB. With Dee gone. I think this becomes one of the flashy DEs. If someone wants Lane they will look to move up here.
Cardinals
Floyd DT
Same
Maybe I'm in my own head here. Everyone seems to slate Lane Johnson here. Floyd is the better prospect. I'm leaning towards Lane being fabricated by the media. They see what he can do athletically and fall in love with him.
Chargers from Bills
Johnson LT
Warmack G
Chargers desparately need a LT. They don't have much ammo so they give up a 3rd rounder here to move up 3 spots mainly to get ahead of the Titans
Jets
Jones DE
Rhodes CB
Sounds like they're going to take the top DE at 9. Mingo would probably be the other guy. Jones fits their system and might seem like a good value to them.
Titans
Warmack G
Same
Titans would probably love to get Miliner which adds to the Lions trading down possibility. Part of me thinks they'll reach and take Fluker. They really need help on the offensive side. Chris Johnson didn't perform nor did Locker. Warmack will help the running game. Since they have a great RB leads me to believe they'll value the guard position.
Bills from Chargers
Austin WR
Vaccaro S
I think the Bills feel better about taking a WR here. I've changed my mind here several times about who'll they'll take. Here I do think Vaccaro is the right pick though. Mingo is another option. I think they need bigger receiver. Austin might be a rare almost Harvin like guy. He showed great hands at the combine and is why I think he goes earlier then I originally thought prior to the combine.
Cowboys from Lions
Vaccaro S
Same
I actually had the Lions taking Mingo here and then when I got to the Cowboys I don't think they're going to want to sit there and see their guys gone. They want a guard or Vaccaro. They love seeing Cooper still there, but I think they'll want Vaccaro bad. I had Vaccaro going to the Jets the next pick. Lions get another 2nd round pick. Lions should take Cooper, Mingo, or Vaccaro in that order in my opinion.
Jets
Cooper G
Same
Losing Landry and Bell the safety position is in shambles. I had Vaccaro here now I'm just not sure. I think it now comes down to Fluker or Cooper.
Panthers
Richardson DT
Same
This fills a huge need for them.
Saints
Mingo DE
Same
They need help on the line or a defensive playmaker.
Rams
Fluker LT
Same
I think the Rams are stoked he's there. They're going to be able to fill another need a little bit later.
Steelers
Ogletree OLB
Same
Possibly top ten talent here, but has issues. The type of athletes the Steelers like.
Jaguars from Lions
Smith QB
Same
Jaguars get big time guy Geno giving up a second and the third round pick might feel like they got two first rounders. Knowing the Lions are shopping it and willing to go to the second round. They might fear of someone else taking Geno.
The Lions get another 2nd round to get this pick. I think back here the Lions are targeting Hayden. Mayhew has this personality of go get your guy, but also get every little thing you can. It's going to take the teams a 2nd and a 3rd to get back into the first round. The Lions want to move back and are willing to give a discount and give them a higher pick. Pick would probably be Rhodes or Tank here.
Giants
Rhodes CB
Same
CB is a huge need and I think Rhodes is a good value here.
Bears
Eifert TE
Same
Can't believe I'm agreeing with this pick. I'm not sure they need a WR. I don't like any of the LBs. I wouldn't take Te'o here. Maybe take Reid at safety I'm not sure. Eifert will really provide help on the offense. There's really not a top guard or tackle here for the OL.
Bengals
Reid S
Same
this seems like a no brainer. I think they'd be willing to trade up for Vaccaro, but Dallas beat it to them.
Rams
Hunter WR
Same
Could turn out to be a star in the league and they have shied away from troublemakers.
Vikings
Hopkins WR
Williams DT
They need a DT bad. They also really like DT named Willaims. It's a no brainer right? I think they want to prove that Ponder can do it.
Colts
Jones DE/DT
Werner DE
I think they'll like Jones DT/DE guy. His ability to get to the QB and play the run.
Vikings
Williams DT
Same
Maybe I was wrong they still got their DT
Packers
Patterson WR
Werner DE
They like to feed Rogers Rodgers weapons. With Jennings gone and Jones a free agent. I'd be surprised if they don't take a WR.
Bills from Texans
Nassib QB
Barkley QB
Bills give up a second and third round to get Nassib. The Texans don't see their WR or OL here.
Broncos
Carradine DE
Werner DE
They want to fill that Dumervil spot
Patriots
Taylor CB
Hayden CB
I really think the Patriots will trade this for a first round next year. I'm just not sure who. Everyone loves that they give up a future player. Well the Patriots are going to sign someone and next year they get another first round pick probably earlier. I'm just not sure. The Patriots know how to stock pile though. Their two CBs are inked for 1 year deals. Taylor seems like a Patroit.
Falcons
Trufant CB
Werner DE
They're going to take a DE or a CB. They're hurting bad.
49ers
Cyprien S
Same
They'd run this pick up there. This will probably be a safety.
Ravens
Elam S
Minter LB
I think they need a to fill that void that is Ray with a stud. Maybe Te'o. With Reed gone and Pollard they're going to want a stud sure thing.
2nd Round
Lions
Hayden CB
Same
They sit patiently. They don't get Miliner. Miliner isn't an elite CB so they might not get a downgrade. Some people do believe Hayden is the top guy. There isn't too much of a drop down. CB check.
49ers
Banks CB
Same
Get a big physical CB. Could be the steal of the draft.
Eagles
Manuel QB
Same
They sit tight and they get who would be a good fit for Chip.
Lions
Werner DE
Same
I think Werner would be the top guy on the board and who they'll take. I had a few names going through my head. Warford, Long, Armstead, Pugh, Minter, Brown, and Allen. The WR Allen out of Cal really made a lot of sense to me.
Bengals
Long LT
Same
Sounds like they want to replace Andre Smith. Only they know that.
Cardinals
Warford G
Same
They're going to be stoked. They really need help on the interior line.
Jets
Ertz TE
Woods WR
They need to replace Keller. Woods would fit into the system very well. A guy that can run every route and has great hands.
Titans
Woods WR
Allen WR
This could be where Damontre goes. I'm just leaning towards them wanting to give locker weapons. If you put on the tape you have to like Woods I like Woods. Yes, Allen ran a 4.71. I just think him, Johnson, and Locker could be deadly. Woods probably does make more sense though because the ability to go across the middle.
Texans
Watson T/G
Armstead LT
I'm not a huge Watson fan. A lot of people are putting him in the first round. to me he has great potential, but sometimes he's just plain making bad mistakes. Lunges, doesn't recognizes stunts, and sometimes is just slow off the ball. He's very athletic though and gets to the second level well.
Lions
Armstead LT
Minter LB
I'm not 100% sold that Armstead is a LT. I don't like Reiff at LT. We might need to wait another year to complete our line. Minter would fill the LB position. Might be a steal.
Bucs
Moore DE
Okafor DE
They've taken falling DEs recently. Hard to believe they wouldn't do it again.
Panthers
Amerson CB
Pugh G
They need to help their line and Pugh can play tackle position.
Chargers
Pugh G/OT
Same
They are really trying to improve their OL.
Rams
Lacy RB
Minter LB
I just think Minter is becoming a great value at this point. Lacy would be a great pick, but I also like some other RBs.
Lions
Allen WR
Minter LB
I'm just thinking you can get a speedy WR later, but he does have great hands. He'd be a returner. I think he'd be the top guy on the board. I'm also starting to think Mayhew likes the heat, but he's not liking the hot seat. He knows he need to produce. Putting a fun offense out there would be a start. One WR to look for later would be Stedman Bailey. Allen's 40 time wasn't good which is why he's available. He's quick on tape and that's what counts. What you do on the field with pads on not in a tee and shorts. Not that I call those t shirts and shorts.
Steelers
Minter LB
Same
This pick makes a ton of sense.
Giants
Okafor DE
Same
Little surprised he's available. I'm not a huge fan though.
Bears
Brown LB
Same
They would probably consider him in the first round. So they'll snatch him up here.
Redskins
Alford CB
Same
Pretty much all CBs are FA next year.
Vikings
Quinton Patton WR
Dobson WR
I like Dobson. I'd put Dobson ahead of Patton too, but Patton next. This could also be a RB.
Bengals
Bernard
Same
They need a real RB. They have good run blocking.
Chiefs from Dolphins
Alonso ILB
Franklin RB
Sounds like the Chiefs are trading Albert. Should happen soon. So I'm giving them to the Dolphins losing Long. Get a proven tackle for this pick makes so much sense.
Packers
Franklin RB
Same
They may trade up to get Bernard, they may sit back till Lacy is gone and Bernard or Franklin. Since Bernard just went they'll sit tight I thifnk.
Seattle
Short DT
Same
Short drops because Panthers drafted Richardson.
Texans
Bostic LB
Wheaton WR
Just not sure what kind of buzz Te'o will bring. He's a 4-3 guy. I want to mock him here, but I just don't think he's a 3-4 system fit.
Broncos
Hankins NT
Same
You need NT. Need bodies.
Patriots
Wheaton WR
Same
Wheaton will stretch the field better then Dobson is why I have him here. Swope is another possibility.
Falcons
Hunt DE
Same
An early second round guy now late second round. This draft is deep in DEs and S.
49ers
Slayer
Trying to upgrade that secondary
Ravens
Poyer
Trying making over that defense.
This what the Lions can accomplish by trading down. They don't get a plug in LT. They do get a starting CB. They can take Jones to play guard and replace Dominic at center eventually. They get a play making WR.
1st Round
Chiefs
Luke Joeckel LT
Same
This isn't a lock yet.
Jaguars
Dion Jordan DE
Eric Fisher LT
A lot of picks just seem so much in the air. Dominoes fall at one and only continue at 2 affecting every other pick behind it. I think they're going to want a big fast flashy guy.
Raiders
Star Lotulelei DT
Same
I know people have Floyd here now because of the medical condition. Star is a rare prospect and fits their new scheme much better. He's also yet to stomp on a player's face and deny it.
Eagles
Eric Fisher LT
Same
They need help. With Star gone I think this becomes an easy pick.
Dolphins from the Lions
Dee Miliner CB
Same
I think the Lions try to trade down. I struggle thinking people are this in love with Johnson. People might love Miliner and you have to figure that's who the Lions take. If not the Lions the Browns. Lions get the 12th and the 42nd pick. Lions have several needs and will get help filling them. The Dolphins get a big physical CB that I don't think the Lions love. Lions would take Miliner here.
Browns
Ansah DE
Floyd DT
They might not see Floyd as a system fit. I think he is. I don't think he's the athlete at the same size that Star is and that is why I don't have him going before him. The Browns need someone to get to the QB. With Dee gone. I think this becomes one of the flashy DEs. If someone wants Lane they will look to move up here.
Cardinals
Floyd DT
Same
Maybe I'm in my own head here. Everyone seems to slate Lane Johnson here. Floyd is the better prospect. I'm leaning towards Lane being fabricated by the media. They see what he can do athletically and fall in love with him.
Chargers from Bills
Johnson LT
Warmack G
Chargers desparately need a LT. They don't have much ammo so they give up a 3rd rounder here to move up 3 spots mainly to get ahead of the Titans
Jets
Jones DE
Rhodes CB
Sounds like they're going to take the top DE at 9. Mingo would probably be the other guy. Jones fits their system and might seem like a good value to them.
Titans
Warmack G
Same
Titans would probably love to get Miliner which adds to the Lions trading down possibility. Part of me thinks they'll reach and take Fluker. They really need help on the offensive side. Chris Johnson didn't perform nor did Locker. Warmack will help the running game. Since they have a great RB leads me to believe they'll value the guard position.
Bills from Chargers
Austin WR
Vaccaro S
I think the Bills feel better about taking a WR here. I've changed my mind here several times about who'll they'll take. Here I do think Vaccaro is the right pick though. Mingo is another option. I think they need bigger receiver. Austin might be a rare almost Harvin like guy. He showed great hands at the combine and is why I think he goes earlier then I originally thought prior to the combine.
Cowboys from Lions
Vaccaro S
Same
I actually had the Lions taking Mingo here and then when I got to the Cowboys I don't think they're going to want to sit there and see their guys gone. They want a guard or Vaccaro. They love seeing Cooper still there, but I think they'll want Vaccaro bad. I had Vaccaro going to the Jets the next pick. Lions get another 2nd round pick. Lions should take Cooper, Mingo, or Vaccaro in that order in my opinion.
Jets
Cooper G
Same
Losing Landry and Bell the safety position is in shambles. I had Vaccaro here now I'm just not sure. I think it now comes down to Fluker or Cooper.
Panthers
Richardson DT
Same
This fills a huge need for them.
Saints
Mingo DE
Same
They need help on the line or a defensive playmaker.
Rams
Fluker LT
Same
I think the Rams are stoked he's there. They're going to be able to fill another need a little bit later.
Steelers
Ogletree OLB
Same
Possibly top ten talent here, but has issues. The type of athletes the Steelers like.
Jaguars from Lions
Smith QB
Same
Jaguars get big time guy Geno giving up a second and the third round pick might feel like they got two first rounders. Knowing the Lions are shopping it and willing to go to the second round. They might fear of someone else taking Geno.
The Lions get another 2nd round to get this pick. I think back here the Lions are targeting Hayden. Mayhew has this personality of go get your guy, but also get every little thing you can. It's going to take the teams a 2nd and a 3rd to get back into the first round. The Lions want to move back and are willing to give a discount and give them a higher pick. Pick would probably be Rhodes or Tank here.
Giants
Rhodes CB
Same
CB is a huge need and I think Rhodes is a good value here.
Bears
Eifert TE
Same
Can't believe I'm agreeing with this pick. I'm not sure they need a WR. I don't like any of the LBs. I wouldn't take Te'o here. Maybe take Reid at safety I'm not sure. Eifert will really provide help on the offense. There's really not a top guard or tackle here for the OL.
Bengals
Reid S
Same
this seems like a no brainer. I think they'd be willing to trade up for Vaccaro, but Dallas beat it to them.
Rams
Hunter WR
Same
Could turn out to be a star in the league and they have shied away from troublemakers.
Vikings
Hopkins WR
Williams DT
They need a DT bad. They also really like DT named Willaims. It's a no brainer right? I think they want to prove that Ponder can do it.
Colts
Jones DE/DT
Werner DE
I think they'll like Jones DT/DE guy. His ability to get to the QB and play the run.
Vikings
Williams DT
Same
Maybe I was wrong they still got their DT
Packers
Patterson WR
Werner DE
They like to feed Rogers Rodgers weapons. With Jennings gone and Jones a free agent. I'd be surprised if they don't take a WR.
Bills from Texans
Nassib QB
Barkley QB
Bills give up a second and third round to get Nassib. The Texans don't see their WR or OL here.
Broncos
Carradine DE
Werner DE
They want to fill that Dumervil spot
Patriots
Taylor CB
Hayden CB
I really think the Patriots will trade this for a first round next year. I'm just not sure who. Everyone loves that they give up a future player. Well the Patriots are going to sign someone and next year they get another first round pick probably earlier. I'm just not sure. The Patriots know how to stock pile though. Their two CBs are inked for 1 year deals. Taylor seems like a Patroit.
Falcons
Trufant CB
Werner DE
They're going to take a DE or a CB. They're hurting bad.
49ers
Cyprien S
Same
They'd run this pick up there. This will probably be a safety.
Ravens
Elam S
Minter LB
I think they need a to fill that void that is Ray with a stud. Maybe Te'o. With Reed gone and Pollard they're going to want a stud sure thing.
2nd Round
Lions
Hayden CB
Same
They sit patiently. They don't get Miliner. Miliner isn't an elite CB so they might not get a downgrade. Some people do believe Hayden is the top guy. There isn't too much of a drop down. CB check.
49ers
Banks CB
Same
Get a big physical CB. Could be the steal of the draft.
Eagles
Manuel QB
Same
They sit tight and they get who would be a good fit for Chip.
Lions
Werner DE
Same
I think Werner would be the top guy on the board and who they'll take. I had a few names going through my head. Warford, Long, Armstead, Pugh, Minter, Brown, and Allen. The WR Allen out of Cal really made a lot of sense to me.
Bengals
Long LT
Same
Sounds like they want to replace Andre Smith. Only they know that.
Cardinals
Warford G
Same
They're going to be stoked. They really need help on the interior line.
Jets
Ertz TE
Woods WR
They need to replace Keller. Woods would fit into the system very well. A guy that can run every route and has great hands.
Titans
Woods WR
Allen WR
This could be where Damontre goes. I'm just leaning towards them wanting to give locker weapons. If you put on the tape you have to like Woods I like Woods. Yes, Allen ran a 4.71. I just think him, Johnson, and Locker could be deadly. Woods probably does make more sense though because the ability to go across the middle.
Texans
Watson T/G
Armstead LT
I'm not a huge Watson fan. A lot of people are putting him in the first round. to me he has great potential, but sometimes he's just plain making bad mistakes. Lunges, doesn't recognizes stunts, and sometimes is just slow off the ball. He's very athletic though and gets to the second level well.
Lions
Armstead LT
Minter LB
I'm not 100% sold that Armstead is a LT. I don't like Reiff at LT. We might need to wait another year to complete our line. Minter would fill the LB position. Might be a steal.
Bucs
Moore DE
Okafor DE
They've taken falling DEs recently. Hard to believe they wouldn't do it again.
Panthers
Amerson CB
Pugh G
They need to help their line and Pugh can play tackle position.
Chargers
Pugh G/OT
Same
They are really trying to improve their OL.
Rams
Lacy RB
Minter LB
I just think Minter is becoming a great value at this point. Lacy would be a great pick, but I also like some other RBs.
Lions
Allen WR
Minter LB
I'm just thinking you can get a speedy WR later, but he does have great hands. He'd be a returner. I think he'd be the top guy on the board. I'm also starting to think Mayhew likes the heat, but he's not liking the hot seat. He knows he need to produce. Putting a fun offense out there would be a start. One WR to look for later would be Stedman Bailey. Allen's 40 time wasn't good which is why he's available. He's quick on tape and that's what counts. What you do on the field with pads on not in a tee and shorts. Not that I call those t shirts and shorts.
Steelers
Minter LB
Same
This pick makes a ton of sense.
Giants
Okafor DE
Same
Little surprised he's available. I'm not a huge fan though.
Bears
Brown LB
Same
They would probably consider him in the first round. So they'll snatch him up here.
Redskins
Alford CB
Same
Pretty much all CBs are FA next year.
Vikings
Quinton Patton WR
Dobson WR
I like Dobson. I'd put Dobson ahead of Patton too, but Patton next. This could also be a RB.
Bengals
Bernard
Same
They need a real RB. They have good run blocking.
Chiefs from Dolphins
Alonso ILB
Franklin RB
Sounds like the Chiefs are trading Albert. Should happen soon. So I'm giving them to the Dolphins losing Long. Get a proven tackle for this pick makes so much sense.
Packers
Franklin RB
Same
They may trade up to get Bernard, they may sit back till Lacy is gone and Bernard or Franklin. Since Bernard just went they'll sit tight I thifnk.
Seattle
Short DT
Same
Short drops because Panthers drafted Richardson.
Texans
Bostic LB
Wheaton WR
Just not sure what kind of buzz Te'o will bring. He's a 4-3 guy. I want to mock him here, but I just don't think he's a 3-4 system fit.
Broncos
Hankins NT
Same
You need NT. Need bodies.
Patriots
Wheaton WR
Same
Wheaton will stretch the field better then Dobson is why I have him here. Swope is another possibility.
Falcons
Hunt DE
Same
An early second round guy now late second round. This draft is deep in DEs and S.
49ers
Slayer
Trying to upgrade that secondary
Ravens
Poyer
Trying making over that defense.
This what the Lions can accomplish by trading down. They don't get a plug in LT. They do get a starting CB. They can take Jones to play guard and replace Dominic at center eventually. They get a play making WR.
Saturday, April 20, 2013
Lions 7 Round Draft
1st Round
I think Joeckel is gone, but Milliner and Fisher are there. I'm hoping at least one is there.
-Eric Fisher
Keeping Fisher in Michigan. Fisher and Reiff. Hillard and Fox quality backups. Sims being 29 is still young. Nagy the believed starter at 25. Could be a center away from not needing to worry about the OL for years and years to come. There's no stud center, but there's some good ones.
2nd Round
This is a tough one. There's going to be a CB here, but I am not sure there is a starter here. Apparently Rhodes in now a consensus first rounder. Personally I agree with it. I just wasn't seeing him getting the love I was giving him. If Jonathan Banks is there I think he's the pick.
-Bjoern Werner
Really trending down. I don't think Banks or Rhodes will be there. Damontre Moore just isn't a strong player and takes poor angles. Werner is a high motor guy that plays the run game well. I think in the second round your getting a get deal. You're not getting a high ceiling guy like Ansah, but I think there's a less of a risk.
3rd Round
You should still be able to get a good DE. I really think the interior lineman will still be there as well. We still haven't taken a CB yet. If there's a guy that can start we should take him. Frederick makes a lot of sense here though. We still have a major need at LB as well.
-Terrence Williams
I think we can get Schwenke late next round which will fill the interior line need. We should probably take the top CB or DE here if we haven't taken one. Either way we need more then one. Taking another 3rd CB might be just a waste though. A bunch of high ceiling guys that don't pan out or stay at the same level of mediocre won't do us much good. Either way were only putting a few CBs on the field at one time. We need a starting CB not another nickel CB. Amerson might be that guy. He's going to need some coaching though. I'm saying we're not getting a starting CB why waste a pick. Williams would be a great addition to the offense. Make a good vertical threat. Willaims can be a little bit lazy, but he'll block and would be a good big threat in the redzone with CJ. Really be a great fit. Aaron Dobson is a smaller name that I absolutely love. Coverage got rolled his way a lot playing at Marshall. I've never seen a guy make CBs just shake their heads. You should see some of his catches. He plays hard.
4th Round
-Brian Schwenke
I think he'll be here. I think Frederick and Barrett Jones will be gone. I think speedster WR like Goodwin and Swope will be gone. We've already take Williams so we should fine. Unless we take a CB in the first three rounds we're not drafting someone we already don't have. We can hear how great they are and don't step on the field. Listen like I said I don't think we're getting a starter in the third round. We might be able to get one in the 2nd round. With Schwenke our OL will hopefully never be worried about for a very long time. If Aaron Dobson is here especially if we haven't take a WR he needs to be taken. Great hands and could be a big time playmaker in the 4th round that doesn't happen often. He's got great hands. I think he'll be gone though. He's rated as a 4th round guy. Personally I think he's much better then that. Youtube him and you'll see why.
5th Round
I think there could be some intriguing options. Lattimore being one. If he's here I think it would be a great pick. I think he'll be gone though. Sam Montgomery here I think he's the pick regardless of if we've drafted a DE. I don't think he will be. Kenny Stills makes a lot of sense here. Since we already have Williams we'll pass.
-T.J. McDonald
I've had a little change of heart. I had Klein just ahead of Riddick. Klein just has a nose for the ball. Riddick really has stoned some people in the middle behind of the line of scrimmage. He gets off blocks better then Klein and has better skills. I think if McDonald is here this is too much of steal. Otherwise it'd be Riddick. McDonald is starting safety caliber. He's a type of guy that I think we could have some interesting packages. I would put him in the box as a 3rd safety a lot in nickel and dime situations. He'd really provide great depth. This pick would be an absolute steal, but it's where people are projecting him. In fact I'm tempted to say take him and then Schwenke, but that's a more immediate need. Not that that comes in to play.
6th Round
-Caleb Sturgis
We need a kicker. Dustin Hopkins or Quinn Sharp would be the other kickers. Sharp also punted and lead the nation in touchbacks. Sturgis hit some big kicks.
7th Round
-Ryan Allen
Do you you take the punter Ryan Allen or Quinn Sharp. Allen did a great job of pinning people inside the 20 and 10 and that's why I think he's the guy. I think the Lions need to try and bring Quinn in as competition and prove that Sturgis can prevent the return like Sharp has. The special teams start with the kicker and punter. Hopefully we can prevent issues thanks to a new punter and kicker. As someone that wanted Jason Hanson to retire a Lion more then anything his kickoffs were starting to lack. Hopefully we have the next Jason Hanson in a kicker and punter from this draft. Kicker is the position the Lions draft well.
-Wes Horton
I think we need to take a DE here. We loaded up in LBs last year. Giving up a 4th rounder this year to get one. This needs to be on the defensive side. The LB position wouldn't change much here. The CB position wouldn't change. With McDonald we have great safety depth. Horton is a guy that could make the team and provide quality depth. The reason I don't take Sharp is because I think you have to decide what you want. If you think Sharp is your kicker or punter take him. Freeing up a roster spot helps, but I think you need the best kicker and punter you can have. More important then a guy that sees a handful of plays. You draft 2 kickers and/or punters your guaranteeing one won't make the roster.
I think Joeckel is gone, but Milliner and Fisher are there. I'm hoping at least one is there.
-Eric Fisher
Keeping Fisher in Michigan. Fisher and Reiff. Hillard and Fox quality backups. Sims being 29 is still young. Nagy the believed starter at 25. Could be a center away from not needing to worry about the OL for years and years to come. There's no stud center, but there's some good ones.
2nd Round
This is a tough one. There's going to be a CB here, but I am not sure there is a starter here. Apparently Rhodes in now a consensus first rounder. Personally I agree with it. I just wasn't seeing him getting the love I was giving him. If Jonathan Banks is there I think he's the pick.
-Bjoern Werner
Really trending down. I don't think Banks or Rhodes will be there. Damontre Moore just isn't a strong player and takes poor angles. Werner is a high motor guy that plays the run game well. I think in the second round your getting a get deal. You're not getting a high ceiling guy like Ansah, but I think there's a less of a risk.
3rd Round
You should still be able to get a good DE. I really think the interior lineman will still be there as well. We still haven't taken a CB yet. If there's a guy that can start we should take him. Frederick makes a lot of sense here though. We still have a major need at LB as well.
-Terrence Williams
I think we can get Schwenke late next round which will fill the interior line need. We should probably take the top CB or DE here if we haven't taken one. Either way we need more then one. Taking another 3rd CB might be just a waste though. A bunch of high ceiling guys that don't pan out or stay at the same level of mediocre won't do us much good. Either way were only putting a few CBs on the field at one time. We need a starting CB not another nickel CB. Amerson might be that guy. He's going to need some coaching though. I'm saying we're not getting a starting CB why waste a pick. Williams would be a great addition to the offense. Make a good vertical threat. Willaims can be a little bit lazy, but he'll block and would be a good big threat in the redzone with CJ. Really be a great fit. Aaron Dobson is a smaller name that I absolutely love. Coverage got rolled his way a lot playing at Marshall. I've never seen a guy make CBs just shake their heads. You should see some of his catches. He plays hard.
4th Round
-Brian Schwenke
I think he'll be here. I think Frederick and Barrett Jones will be gone. I think speedster WR like Goodwin and Swope will be gone. We've already take Williams so we should fine. Unless we take a CB in the first three rounds we're not drafting someone we already don't have. We can hear how great they are and don't step on the field. Listen like I said I don't think we're getting a starter in the third round. We might be able to get one in the 2nd round. With Schwenke our OL will hopefully never be worried about for a very long time. If Aaron Dobson is here especially if we haven't take a WR he needs to be taken. Great hands and could be a big time playmaker in the 4th round that doesn't happen often. He's got great hands. I think he'll be gone though. He's rated as a 4th round guy. Personally I think he's much better then that. Youtube him and you'll see why.
5th Round
I think there could be some intriguing options. Lattimore being one. If he's here I think it would be a great pick. I think he'll be gone though. Sam Montgomery here I think he's the pick regardless of if we've drafted a DE. I don't think he will be. Kenny Stills makes a lot of sense here. Since we already have Williams we'll pass.
-T.J. McDonald
I've had a little change of heart. I had Klein just ahead of Riddick. Klein just has a nose for the ball. Riddick really has stoned some people in the middle behind of the line of scrimmage. He gets off blocks better then Klein and has better skills. I think if McDonald is here this is too much of steal. Otherwise it'd be Riddick. McDonald is starting safety caliber. He's a type of guy that I think we could have some interesting packages. I would put him in the box as a 3rd safety a lot in nickel and dime situations. He'd really provide great depth. This pick would be an absolute steal, but it's where people are projecting him. In fact I'm tempted to say take him and then Schwenke, but that's a more immediate need. Not that that comes in to play.
6th Round
-Caleb Sturgis
We need a kicker. Dustin Hopkins or Quinn Sharp would be the other kickers. Sharp also punted and lead the nation in touchbacks. Sturgis hit some big kicks.
7th Round
-Ryan Allen
Do you you take the punter Ryan Allen or Quinn Sharp. Allen did a great job of pinning people inside the 20 and 10 and that's why I think he's the guy. I think the Lions need to try and bring Quinn in as competition and prove that Sturgis can prevent the return like Sharp has. The special teams start with the kicker and punter. Hopefully we can prevent issues thanks to a new punter and kicker. As someone that wanted Jason Hanson to retire a Lion more then anything his kickoffs were starting to lack. Hopefully we have the next Jason Hanson in a kicker and punter from this draft. Kicker is the position the Lions draft well.
-Wes Horton
I think we need to take a DE here. We loaded up in LBs last year. Giving up a 4th rounder this year to get one. This needs to be on the defensive side. The LB position wouldn't change much here. The CB position wouldn't change. With McDonald we have great safety depth. Horton is a guy that could make the team and provide quality depth. The reason I don't take Sharp is because I think you have to decide what you want. If you think Sharp is your kicker or punter take him. Freeing up a roster spot helps, but I think you need the best kicker and punter you can have. More important then a guy that sees a handful of plays. You draft 2 kickers and/or punters your guaranteeing one won't make the roster.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Change of Heart - David Amerson
David Amerson is a CB out of NC State. I haven't been very high on him. Include that we have a terrible track record with mid round CBs. In 2011 he was the top CB in his class after accumulating 13 interceptions. Regressing to 5 interceptions this year.
He has very tight hips and may turn into more of a safety. At 6'1" he possesses rare size. A playmakers are rare. Can do one thing our CBs and even a lot of our WRs can't do and that's catch the ball. 13 interceptions in a year is a lot. 5 is still a good year in my book.
This past year he got beat deep on a lot of double moves. That's something that can be taught. Just need to get those hips loosened up so he can turn and run. I think he'll do great in a zone though. He seems to read the QB and bait him extremely well.
Rare size, rare playmaking possibilities, and great hands make him a sensible pick in the third round. He's a junior and is still young. He's not a plug in and play guy yet. After a couple of years coaching he could be a great CB or even safety. I am not going to be stoked if the Lions take him, but I'm no longer against it. My concerns being the double move, hips, and run integrity. He needs to learn to stick his head in there and make some tackles. He's probably never going to be a guy that loves to tackle, but these things can be changed and that's why I am changing my mind on Amerson.
He has very tight hips and may turn into more of a safety. At 6'1" he possesses rare size. A playmakers are rare. Can do one thing our CBs and even a lot of our WRs can't do and that's catch the ball. 13 interceptions in a year is a lot. 5 is still a good year in my book.
This past year he got beat deep on a lot of double moves. That's something that can be taught. Just need to get those hips loosened up so he can turn and run. I think he'll do great in a zone though. He seems to read the QB and bait him extremely well.
Rare size, rare playmaking possibilities, and great hands make him a sensible pick in the third round. He's a junior and is still young. He's not a plug in and play guy yet. After a couple of years coaching he could be a great CB or even safety. I am not going to be stoked if the Lions take him, but I'm no longer against it. My concerns being the double move, hips, and run integrity. He needs to learn to stick his head in there and make some tackles. He's probably never going to be a guy that loves to tackle, but these things can be changed and that's why I am changing my mind on Amerson.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Ideal/Realistic/Likely
I am going to go through draft of ideal meaning it could happen and if we could have anyone it'd be him. Realistic being this person is probably more realistic to be available. Likely being this person is very likely to be available.
1st Round
Ideal - Luke Joeckel. He's a great pass blocking LT. Fisher has quite a bit more nasty in him. I think we could very well finish our OL for years to come. Hillard and Fox being young backups as well. Joeckel is a very smooth and polished LT.
Realistic - Eric Fisher. Nasty running blocking LT. Reiff is a great running back tackle as well. This will help our running game. Reiff is a much better fit at RT.
Likely - Dee Milliner. There very could well be two LTs gone. I am not that high on Lane Johnson. I surely don't like him nearly this early. I wouldn't take him in the single digits. I would take Warmack over Johnson. Yes, I liked DeCastro over Reiff even though I mocked it differently last year. I hope I continue to be wrong there. Milliner isn't an elite CB, but he's a day one starting CB for the Lions and that's important.
There's really nobody outside of these three that I like at 5. If these three are gone we really need to move down. A lot of people have been having Miami, Bills, and 49ers move up.
2nd Round
Ideal - Xavier Rhodes. I think Rhodes is also realistic. Great size, speed, and ball skills. I think he's realistic too. There's a chance that there's a run on CBs. Banks is a huge CB that is very raw that would be my next CB. I think it's realistic one of them is there. I'm not going to talk about two CBs so I'll save the next slot for.
Realistic - A top guy dropping. Damontre Moore, Manti Te'o, Arthur Brown, Werner, Jarvis Jones, Jonathon Cooper, or Alec Ogeltree. Alec has issues and don't think he's worth the risk. I know people are saying Te'o is a lock 1st rounder, but no late first round pick is. Here's the thing there's not a lot of teams that need that guy. Bears don't take Te'o who knows where he could drop. I'd really like Werner here. I'd be stoked. I'm not saying all these guys are realistic, but I believe multiple peopel out of this list to drop. I think Brown is undersized and is injury proned, but he's a quality OLB and a position of need.
Likely - Kevin Minter. Get ourself a nice ILB. Margus Hunt DE, Alex Okafor DE, Kyle Long OT/G, Larry Warford G, Terron Armstead OT, or Robert Alford CB. I have to say I'm not high any too many people from this list other then Minter and Hunt. Warford wouldn't be a bad pick. Other then that I don't like Okafor.
3rd Round
Ideal - WR that stretches the field. Talk about Keenan Allen, Terrence Williams, Robert Woods, Quinton Patton, Markus Wheaton, or Stedman Bailey. There's so many. Allen isn't likely at all. I think Woods is underrated but isn't the deep threat were looking for, but I don't think you pass on him for that reason. I think he's the second best receiver in this group. Keep in mind Burleson doesn't have too many years left. Allen showed great hands at the draft he very well could go in the first round. I do think Williams and Stedman will be available.
Realistic - Interior lineman. Travis Frederick. He should be available here. He'd be a great fit. Can play guard or center.
Likely - Trade back. There's likely to be a run on QBs. We're a pick before the run should begin if it already hasn't. I do think that teams will fall in love with Manuel and Smith and they could go early starting the dominos for Bray, Glennon, Barkley, and more early. If there's still a handful of QB we should be able to trade down. Look at Kiko Alnso ILB, David Bakhtiari OT/G, David Amerson CB, Blidi CB, Khaseem Greene LB, or Baccari Rambo S. I think out of this group Greene makes the most sense and I like him the best.
Trading back and getting Frederick really makes the most sense to me. Rambo is probably the most talented, but has issues.
4th Round
Ideal - Getting a WR or interior lineman here instead of the 3rd round. There's a chance someone falls. Now I think Frederick is gone, but there are other options. I think you could look at Swope here at WR now. Also, look at Goodwin, and Aaron Dobson. Dobson is I guy that I love. The interior ideal lineman would be Barrett Jones.
Realistic - Brian Schwenke. Another interior lineman that should be there. This guy is nasty. The ideal nasty for a center.
Likely - Really opening a can of worms this late in the draft here. Two risky guys I'm going to put here. Since this is a late 4th round I don't know that I can say they are likely. Lattimore and Mathieu would be interesting and not stupid picks in my opinion. Mathieu is a honey badger. We are actually in a situation to allow Lattimore to heal similar to Broyles last year. This in my mind would be a steal getting Lattimore. With Mathieu's issues I don't see him going earlier then the 4th round. He's undersized, not really that athletic. He could be a playmaker though.
I really think Schwenke makes the most sense here.
Quick recap. If I'm mocking this draft and being realistic. Have them taking Fisher, Rhodes, Frederick, and then Schwenke. I know what you're thinking that is a lot of lineman. We get a replacement for Dominic. Schwenke could start day one, but he's not a stud and that's why he'll probably be available. I'm going forward based on that.
5th Round
I think these people are realistic and likely. I am going to kind of go based on who I'm saying we've drafted.
Ideal - Kenny Stills. WR in the 5th round that will stretch the field. Got good hands and can run. We don't spend on a 2nd round pick on a guy that just needs to run fast. This works out well
Realistic/Likely - This is a deep DE draft and haven't had them with any. Sam Montgomery would in mind mind be a great pick. I love LBs Klein or Reddick here though. TJ McDonald could be a steal at safety at well in my opinion here.
6th and 7th Round
I'll be wanting Stugis in the 6th and then Ryan Allen in the 7th round. Top kicker and the punter. Then draft a DE with the last pick or possibly a LB. Probably biased again if Jake Knott is there I think you take him. Cameron Meredith DE out of Nebraska. He's very strong against the run which apparently the Lions forget teams can still runt the ball.
1st Round
Ideal - Luke Joeckel. He's a great pass blocking LT. Fisher has quite a bit more nasty in him. I think we could very well finish our OL for years to come. Hillard and Fox being young backups as well. Joeckel is a very smooth and polished LT.
Realistic - Eric Fisher. Nasty running blocking LT. Reiff is a great running back tackle as well. This will help our running game. Reiff is a much better fit at RT.
Likely - Dee Milliner. There very could well be two LTs gone. I am not that high on Lane Johnson. I surely don't like him nearly this early. I wouldn't take him in the single digits. I would take Warmack over Johnson. Yes, I liked DeCastro over Reiff even though I mocked it differently last year. I hope I continue to be wrong there. Milliner isn't an elite CB, but he's a day one starting CB for the Lions and that's important.
There's really nobody outside of these three that I like at 5. If these three are gone we really need to move down. A lot of people have been having Miami, Bills, and 49ers move up.
2nd Round
Ideal - Xavier Rhodes. I think Rhodes is also realistic. Great size, speed, and ball skills. I think he's realistic too. There's a chance that there's a run on CBs. Banks is a huge CB that is very raw that would be my next CB. I think it's realistic one of them is there. I'm not going to talk about two CBs so I'll save the next slot for.
Realistic - A top guy dropping. Damontre Moore, Manti Te'o, Arthur Brown, Werner, Jarvis Jones, Jonathon Cooper, or Alec Ogeltree. Alec has issues and don't think he's worth the risk. I know people are saying Te'o is a lock 1st rounder, but no late first round pick is. Here's the thing there's not a lot of teams that need that guy. Bears don't take Te'o who knows where he could drop. I'd really like Werner here. I'd be stoked. I'm not saying all these guys are realistic, but I believe multiple peopel out of this list to drop. I think Brown is undersized and is injury proned, but he's a quality OLB and a position of need.
Likely - Kevin Minter. Get ourself a nice ILB. Margus Hunt DE, Alex Okafor DE, Kyle Long OT/G, Larry Warford G, Terron Armstead OT, or Robert Alford CB. I have to say I'm not high any too many people from this list other then Minter and Hunt. Warford wouldn't be a bad pick. Other then that I don't like Okafor.
3rd Round
Ideal - WR that stretches the field. Talk about Keenan Allen, Terrence Williams, Robert Woods, Quinton Patton, Markus Wheaton, or Stedman Bailey. There's so many. Allen isn't likely at all. I think Woods is underrated but isn't the deep threat were looking for, but I don't think you pass on him for that reason. I think he's the second best receiver in this group. Keep in mind Burleson doesn't have too many years left. Allen showed great hands at the draft he very well could go in the first round. I do think Williams and Stedman will be available.
Realistic - Interior lineman. Travis Frederick. He should be available here. He'd be a great fit. Can play guard or center.
Likely - Trade back. There's likely to be a run on QBs. We're a pick before the run should begin if it already hasn't. I do think that teams will fall in love with Manuel and Smith and they could go early starting the dominos for Bray, Glennon, Barkley, and more early. If there's still a handful of QB we should be able to trade down. Look at Kiko Alnso ILB, David Bakhtiari OT/G, David Amerson CB, Blidi CB, Khaseem Greene LB, or Baccari Rambo S. I think out of this group Greene makes the most sense and I like him the best.
Trading back and getting Frederick really makes the most sense to me. Rambo is probably the most talented, but has issues.
4th Round
Ideal - Getting a WR or interior lineman here instead of the 3rd round. There's a chance someone falls. Now I think Frederick is gone, but there are other options. I think you could look at Swope here at WR now. Also, look at Goodwin, and Aaron Dobson. Dobson is I guy that I love. The interior ideal lineman would be Barrett Jones.
Realistic - Brian Schwenke. Another interior lineman that should be there. This guy is nasty. The ideal nasty for a center.
Likely - Really opening a can of worms this late in the draft here. Two risky guys I'm going to put here. Since this is a late 4th round I don't know that I can say they are likely. Lattimore and Mathieu would be interesting and not stupid picks in my opinion. Mathieu is a honey badger. We are actually in a situation to allow Lattimore to heal similar to Broyles last year. This in my mind would be a steal getting Lattimore. With Mathieu's issues I don't see him going earlier then the 4th round. He's undersized, not really that athletic. He could be a playmaker though.
I really think Schwenke makes the most sense here.
Quick recap. If I'm mocking this draft and being realistic. Have them taking Fisher, Rhodes, Frederick, and then Schwenke. I know what you're thinking that is a lot of lineman. We get a replacement for Dominic. Schwenke could start day one, but he's not a stud and that's why he'll probably be available. I'm going forward based on that.
5th Round
I think these people are realistic and likely. I am going to kind of go based on who I'm saying we've drafted.
Ideal - Kenny Stills. WR in the 5th round that will stretch the field. Got good hands and can run. We don't spend on a 2nd round pick on a guy that just needs to run fast. This works out well
Realistic/Likely - This is a deep DE draft and haven't had them with any. Sam Montgomery would in mind mind be a great pick. I love LBs Klein or Reddick here though. TJ McDonald could be a steal at safety at well in my opinion here.
6th and 7th Round
I'll be wanting Stugis in the 6th and then Ryan Allen in the 7th round. Top kicker and the punter. Then draft a DE with the last pick or possibly a LB. Probably biased again if Jake Knott is there I think you take him. Cameron Meredith DE out of Nebraska. He's very strong against the run which apparently the Lions forget teams can still runt the ball.
Saturday, April 13, 2013
Lions 7 Round Draft
Now we don't know who is going to be gone. This a draft where I think anything could happen. I think there's a possibility there's a run on QBs early in the first round. It's definitely not expected to happen.
1st Round
I really think this pick has 4 options. One being trade down. I would hope 3 of the picks I would want would be gone. I am on a no DE mode right now. This is a deep DE draft. They're all high risk DEs too. I just think This pick needs to be Joeckel, Fisher, or Milliner. I can't imagine both tackles there, so I'd pick them in that order. Fisher is a better run blocker I believe. Joeckel has a great kick back and like him in pass blocking. Now you trade down, which may or may not be realistic. I think if Geno is there, there might be teams that want to trade up. Bills might be one of them to make sure nobody else comes up and gets him. I think you can still get Milliner there. You could also start considering Chance Warmack even more the lower you go. With signing two safeties I don't think you take Vaccaro off the board. I think Quin possibly Vaccaro could play CB. Now if it was me I think you could make some interesting packages with the three. Vaccaro is great in the run game. He loves to tackle. DE are always on the board at some point when you move down. Who knows which ones are available, but one of the top ten guys is likely to go in the twenties. Talk about Bowers and Clayborn both Bucs in past years were considered top guys and didn't go to the second round. I think that is likely. I guy like Werner, Moore, and Jones could be second round picks. I honestly think Moore is a 2nd round guy. Now I think the other two won't be available in the 2nd round, but those are those guys Jones with the injury and Werner because he's no the sexy pick like Ansah or Jordan. I think Fisher is gone, I'd take Fisher.
2nd Round
Unless there is a run on CBs in the first round there is likely to be some good ones here. I like Xavier Rhodes by high on him for a long time. He's my second best CB. I've been saying it for a long time. Now Banks is the high potential guy. There's going to be a DE here whether it's Moore or someone else. I think LB is also a good pick to look at. A lot of people have Brown in the first round. I don't think he's a good fit for a Lions. I like him not love him. He's smaller then Ernie, but quick and loves to hit. Now our DL doesn't protect their LBs like every other team. I think it's a stupid scheme, but it's reality. A big guard gets his hands on Brown it's probably not going to be the best. Minter could be there. Khaseem Greene will be there more then likely. OL is a good possible even if you've already taken one. Cooper, Pugh, Long, Armstead, and Warford. Safety would be Matt Elam. I'd take Rhodes. If he's gone I take one of those CBs unless there is a big name there. Minter is there he'd be my two and then Banks or Trufant.
3rd Round
Someone had Moore still available here. If he is take him. I don't know that he's slid this far. We haven't had much luck with CB here. At this point your probably not getting a starter. We have projects. Pass on CBs here. I think you now look at those positions that are deeper and little differences. Like RB and WR. Eddie Lacy might be available. Robert Woods would make a good pick. If Barkley is still on the board I don't have a problem with it. You might end up with a good 3rd string qb. Hill is at the end of his career. You might end up with a good trading chip though. Only downfall is he couldn't play against Lions secondary to get Flynn like recognition and value. I once heard someone say they always drafted a QB becasue of the value and I think that is smart to the point where your stupid not too. Bernard I think possibly Lattimore. Then you're not relying on Bush. You have depth and Lattimore can recover healthy. I don't think Lattimore would be a bad pick, but he might be in play later. The safety Rambo or Shamarko Thomas. You do need depth at safety. Even if you don't have someone that is injury proned. Bailey or Williams are other WR possibilities. Start really looking at guards and centers. Travis Frederick really makes sense. Sam Montgomery is a good DE possibility. I think in the end DE, G, or C should be the pick here. Even if you've take a DE it's not a bad to add depth.
4th Round
I think you're looking at possibility of a lot of those 4th round guys. Wilcox at safety here. A lot of linebackers Bostic or Vince Williams. Bell or Gholston out of MSU. Barrett Jones would be a solid pick if he's available. Kenny Stills is your likely WR. Marquise Goodwin is my 4th round guy. I hope the Lions hold out on WR and take him in the 4th round. Am I picking him on his 40 time. Yes, we need someone to get vertical. We need a returner. Schwenke would be the other center. Now our 4th round pick is compensatory so it's late. I don't know that Lattimore, Jones, Schwenke, or Goodwin will be here. Alvin Bailey a Guard out of Arkansas is a likely and good pick.
5th Round
Now we're really getting down there. Heller is gone Sims out of MSU is a good pick here. Guard Hugh Thornton, speedy back Mike Gillislee, safety T.J. McDonald, or LB Kevin Reddick. I really like A.J. Klein or Devin Taylor. Possibly a punter or kicker.
6th and 2 7ths
We have 1 6th round pick and 2 7ths. I'm going to combine them. I think if the best punter and kicker are available you take them. You have Wolff S, Sanders WR, Johnson Purdue CB, Wagner OT, Lester S, or Barner RB. I don't know that there is a kicker like there was last year in Henry. I think you take Sturgis the kicker out of Florida if he's here and then you take Ryan Allen the punter. Behind him at punter would be Wing and Hopkins at kicker. You'd think with an early 6th and 7th we'd be able to get 2 out of the four.
1st Round
I really think this pick has 4 options. One being trade down. I would hope 3 of the picks I would want would be gone. I am on a no DE mode right now. This is a deep DE draft. They're all high risk DEs too. I just think This pick needs to be Joeckel, Fisher, or Milliner. I can't imagine both tackles there, so I'd pick them in that order. Fisher is a better run blocker I believe. Joeckel has a great kick back and like him in pass blocking. Now you trade down, which may or may not be realistic. I think if Geno is there, there might be teams that want to trade up. Bills might be one of them to make sure nobody else comes up and gets him. I think you can still get Milliner there. You could also start considering Chance Warmack even more the lower you go. With signing two safeties I don't think you take Vaccaro off the board. I think Quin possibly Vaccaro could play CB. Now if it was me I think you could make some interesting packages with the three. Vaccaro is great in the run game. He loves to tackle. DE are always on the board at some point when you move down. Who knows which ones are available, but one of the top ten guys is likely to go in the twenties. Talk about Bowers and Clayborn both Bucs in past years were considered top guys and didn't go to the second round. I think that is likely. I guy like Werner, Moore, and Jones could be second round picks. I honestly think Moore is a 2nd round guy. Now I think the other two won't be available in the 2nd round, but those are those guys Jones with the injury and Werner because he's no the sexy pick like Ansah or Jordan. I think Fisher is gone, I'd take Fisher.
2nd Round
Unless there is a run on CBs in the first round there is likely to be some good ones here. I like Xavier Rhodes by high on him for a long time. He's my second best CB. I've been saying it for a long time. Now Banks is the high potential guy. There's going to be a DE here whether it's Moore or someone else. I think LB is also a good pick to look at. A lot of people have Brown in the first round. I don't think he's a good fit for a Lions. I like him not love him. He's smaller then Ernie, but quick and loves to hit. Now our DL doesn't protect their LBs like every other team. I think it's a stupid scheme, but it's reality. A big guard gets his hands on Brown it's probably not going to be the best. Minter could be there. Khaseem Greene will be there more then likely. OL is a good possible even if you've already taken one. Cooper, Pugh, Long, Armstead, and Warford. Safety would be Matt Elam. I'd take Rhodes. If he's gone I take one of those CBs unless there is a big name there. Minter is there he'd be my two and then Banks or Trufant.
3rd Round
Someone had Moore still available here. If he is take him. I don't know that he's slid this far. We haven't had much luck with CB here. At this point your probably not getting a starter. We have projects. Pass on CBs here. I think you now look at those positions that are deeper and little differences. Like RB and WR. Eddie Lacy might be available. Robert Woods would make a good pick. If Barkley is still on the board I don't have a problem with it. You might end up with a good 3rd string qb. Hill is at the end of his career. You might end up with a good trading chip though. Only downfall is he couldn't play against Lions secondary to get Flynn like recognition and value. I once heard someone say they always drafted a QB becasue of the value and I think that is smart to the point where your stupid not too. Bernard I think possibly Lattimore. Then you're not relying on Bush. You have depth and Lattimore can recover healthy. I don't think Lattimore would be a bad pick, but he might be in play later. The safety Rambo or Shamarko Thomas. You do need depth at safety. Even if you don't have someone that is injury proned. Bailey or Williams are other WR possibilities. Start really looking at guards and centers. Travis Frederick really makes sense. Sam Montgomery is a good DE possibility. I think in the end DE, G, or C should be the pick here. Even if you've take a DE it's not a bad to add depth.
4th Round
I think you're looking at possibility of a lot of those 4th round guys. Wilcox at safety here. A lot of linebackers Bostic or Vince Williams. Bell or Gholston out of MSU. Barrett Jones would be a solid pick if he's available. Kenny Stills is your likely WR. Marquise Goodwin is my 4th round guy. I hope the Lions hold out on WR and take him in the 4th round. Am I picking him on his 40 time. Yes, we need someone to get vertical. We need a returner. Schwenke would be the other center. Now our 4th round pick is compensatory so it's late. I don't know that Lattimore, Jones, Schwenke, or Goodwin will be here. Alvin Bailey a Guard out of Arkansas is a likely and good pick.
5th Round
Now we're really getting down there. Heller is gone Sims out of MSU is a good pick here. Guard Hugh Thornton, speedy back Mike Gillislee, safety T.J. McDonald, or LB Kevin Reddick. I really like A.J. Klein or Devin Taylor. Possibly a punter or kicker.
6th and 2 7ths
We have 1 6th round pick and 2 7ths. I'm going to combine them. I think if the best punter and kicker are available you take them. You have Wolff S, Sanders WR, Johnson Purdue CB, Wagner OT, Lester S, or Barner RB. I don't know that there is a kicker like there was last year in Henry. I think you take Sturgis the kicker out of Florida if he's here and then you take Ryan Allen the punter. Behind him at punter would be Wing and Hopkins at kicker. You'd think with an early 6th and 7th we'd be able to get 2 out of the four.
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Day 2 Combine
Not too much to talk about for Lions fans.
I don't think we need to worry too much about QBs. We're one WRs 40 and Tavon Austin just ran an unofficial 4.25. He'd be tough to pass up in the second round. Marquise Goodwin also ran a 4.25 unofficially.
Austin ran a 4.34 and Goodwin 4.27 now official.
This is clearly a deep WR and RB class with no stars. I will say I see why Patterson is the top WR in the class. He's a big guy and ran like a 4.37 unofficially. The guy is a freak athlete. He's not in our consideration at all.
Knile Davis 4.3 his draft stock dropped when John L came in this year. He could be a great late round pick. Le'avon Bell 4.52 mike gillislee 4.5. Bell is faster then people expected, but had such a workload he'll still probably be available in the 5th round. Guy is an athlete. These times are still unofficial, but hopefully aren't to far off.
This is a deep WR and runningback group. I don't know that there is a star player. I think you'll get great value late in the round. I think someone like Marcus Lattimore 4th round. Marquise Goodwin a 4th round WR. Someone like Andre Ellington and Ryan Swope are 4th rounders. Probably a mistake giving up a 4th rounder last year on Tahir. I think rounds 1-3 Lions need to stick to OL and defense. The 5-6 there will be people there. Le'veon Bell maybe. WR and RB shouldn't be picked till the 4th round which we don't have one and we better not continue to give up a future pick. We have a lot of needs. We need to continue to build over the years and not waste the future.
I don't think we need to worry too much about QBs. We're one WRs 40 and Tavon Austin just ran an unofficial 4.25. He'd be tough to pass up in the second round. Marquise Goodwin also ran a 4.25 unofficially.
Austin ran a 4.34 and Goodwin 4.27 now official.
This is clearly a deep WR and RB class with no stars. I will say I see why Patterson is the top WR in the class. He's a big guy and ran like a 4.37 unofficially. The guy is a freak athlete. He's not in our consideration at all.
Knile Davis 4.3 his draft stock dropped when John L came in this year. He could be a great late round pick. Le'avon Bell 4.52 mike gillislee 4.5. Bell is faster then people expected, but had such a workload he'll still probably be available in the 5th round. Guy is an athlete. These times are still unofficial, but hopefully aren't to far off.
This is a deep WR and runningback group. I don't know that there is a star player. I think you'll get great value late in the round. I think someone like Marcus Lattimore 4th round. Marquise Goodwin a 4th round WR. Someone like Andre Ellington and Ryan Swope are 4th rounders. Probably a mistake giving up a 4th rounder last year on Tahir. I think rounds 1-3 Lions need to stick to OL and defense. The 5-6 there will be people there. Le'veon Bell maybe. WR and RB shouldn't be picked till the 4th round which we don't have one and we better not continue to give up a future pick. We have a lot of needs. We need to continue to build over the years and not waste the future.
Saturday, February 23, 2013
The Ideal Lions Draft
It's part of day 1 in the combine and watched Joeckel, Fisher, Frederick, and more intently. My hopes are really high right now. GM Buddy Nix of the Bills has blatantly said that they want to draft a franchise QB and will trade up to do so. Maybe he knows they don't like anyone and trying to make a market. In a draft year where there seems to be very few prize possessions there might become a huge market for the 5th spot and here's why. If you want to trade up to draft you'll want to leapfrog the Browns and the Cardinals if you want a QB. Now keep in mind the Chiefs get who they want. Now in an ideal world maybe the Chiefs want Geno and the Bills want Barkley. I think that might be a stretch from what people are saying.
Now I think Joeckel is a prize possession and will be tough to pass up. Especially considering i consider Reiff a great fit at RT. People really fell in love with Fisher from CMU today. I still see him as a early to mid first round guy. Now this isn't the greatest draft. I just think you get the same value lower. In fact Chance Warmack looked like a beast.
If the Lions can trade down with the Bills. This would be great if they could and pick up a 2nd rounder. There are so many people the Lions can target lower and I believe they get better value and getting that 2nd round pick can really help do wonders similar to the Rams last year.
In the first round I think Joeckel and Fisher are definitely gone at 8. Warmack is a maybe. The Cardinals could very well pick him if Fisher and Joeckel are gone and they are likely to be. Werner is likely still available. Milliner likely available. Possibly Lane Johnson who has really moved up today. Kenny Vaccaro should be available. I really think you're choosing between Milliner, Warmack, Werner, and Vaccaro. Very well could trade down again and get better value. These 4 guys are looking like great players. There is also Jonathon Banks. Some people like Desmond Trufant more because of how raw Banks is.
Now the second round pick. There is a couple of guys I really like. Jonathon Cooper the guard out of UNC is getting good reviews. I'm not that high on him, but I do think he would have good value mid 2nd round. early second wouldn't be a reach. Part of me thinks Jarvis Jones might be a Bowers and completely fall down. Possibly Mingo. That's probably a stretch. There's a chance Banks or Trufant is there. Talk about really any WR might be there. I really do like Tavon Austin, but I just simply don't want to throw a second round pick on a speedy receiver. I think you can get a speedy receiver later and the Vikings proved that with their WR out of Arkansas I guy I said the Lions should target.
Three guys that I really like that are in Lions must fill spots. Arthur Brown, Matt Elam, and Xavier Rhodes. I've said I think Rhodes is highly underrated. I think Brown and Elam are chance guys. I don't think the Lions can take a chance on Elam though because of his run in with the law.
Elam is a very instinctive guy. Little undersized then you would like. He loves hitting. I hate that I have to say this but I do. He loves hitting too much in a league with payer safety you can't lead with your head. He doesn't wrap up like he should. In coverage he tends to face guard and he very well could be a nickel guy. He can do a lot of things. He does do a great job of swiping at the hands when it does get there. I don't think his interceptions where where whoa ballhawk maybe one or two. Now at least he does catch the ball. I don't think the Lions can take a chance on him.
Arthur Brown is an undersized ILB. Great spead. He needs to bulk up. I am interested to see his measurables at the combine. He really does a good job of really using his body to fill gaps. He's more of a pass coverage LB. I think he'd be a little bit of a liability in the running game. Very similar to Levy. What I like about Brown is that he gives us a LB that can blitz of the edge which is something we don't have. One of that reasoning being we play a wide 9 which apparently isn't going anywhere. In a wide 9 I think we need big stout run stuffing guys. Unblocked weakside Brown did a great job. He's supposedly a playmaker. I don't put him in that category. His turnovers were on tip balls that floated there for him.
Xavier Rhodes he's there in round 2 I'll be yelling at the tv to take him. This guy is athletic, big guy, and he's a playmaker. He's a no brainer.
Lions trade down they can fill their immediate need on the offense of line with Warmack. They could possibly help out the DBs with Vaccaro or Milliner. In the second round they could make significant help with pass coverage with Brown and Rhodes. Very realistic that Warmack, Brown, and Rhodes.
Lions Free Agency
Value is always the key when it comes to a league with a salary cap. Your looking at about $120 million for the cap. You're supposed to setup contracts to increase with the cap so they take up about the same percentage wise. Now the Lions have needed help on the cap and moved salary issues from one year to the next. Just delaying the issue. Now 51 players count towards that cap. You average $2.35 mill per player. Any player over that mark needs to be worth that many more players. That's where I'm talking about value.
Stafford is over $20 million currently. Everyone is speculating that Stafford's restructure will free cap space, but if he's going to have a bigger contract that's a huge mistake. He should probably count more against the cap this year. Now over 1/5 of the cap space is tied up in quarterbacks alone and there are more then 5 positions total. Stafford makes right around Tom Brady. Best is a killer because he makes just under $2 mill and it's a guaranteed rookie contract and there's little that can be done. It's huge if Best plays. Lions cannot keep investing in RBs and WRs. Titus Young will count just under $1 mill just pure debt weight. Now Megatron makes $12.2 mill. In a league where WRs and RBs are a dime a dozen this kills the Lions, but Megatron is a special player and is worth the money. Suh costs over $18 mill. That's a huge issue. Drafting early pre rookie salary cap is a killer. I cannot say that Suh is with $18 mill, but he was the second overall draft pick. For someone that doesn't play the run, I'll be happy when his salary has expired. If someone wants to pay him $15 mill a year that's fine, but I just hope it's not Detroit.
On the safe end the Lions have $12 million of free cap space. Keep in mind there are a ton of players to sign. Lions need too not continue to dig themselves in a deeper hole. Tulloch is the only starting LB under contract. On the entire DL there are only 2 names that I even recognize. Suh and Fairley. There are a few restricted free agents on that list, but of that $12 they will need some of it. Talking at least 4 DEs and 2 DTs.
As much as I'd like to see the Lions draft Tavon Austin and Marcus Lattimore I worry about dead money down the road on the same position where the position is a dime a dozen. Lions need safeties and CBs badly. Their offense should be high powered enough with all the money there. You can't put more money in the offense and improve the CBs unless you get some diamond in the roughs which the Lions have on the DL. I wouldn't mind seeing if they can step up this year.
Lets take a look at the Lions big free agents.
Avril
What Avril is looking for will take up the majority of the cap and have a back logged issue. The Lions cannot sign him anywhere near what he wants. Personally I don't think there's room for half of what he wants and he'll get that on the market. The Lions didn't get to the QB last year. The DL was also horrible against the run. Avril is probably valued on the high end of $7.5 mill. Which most people will over pay. Someone is worth what someone is willing to pay. Lions just can't afford sadly it's a business and Avril needs to play for someone else next season for the first time in his career. Side note it's understood that it is a business. People like Revis holding out saying it's a business and he wants a new contract. Then when it isn't on his end it's no longer a business. If you haven't heard he's complaining about getting traded and not told anything. It's tough Avril needs to do what is best for himself and he can get more money elsewhere and we can't blame him. We also can't blame organizations for cutting players
There are actually a few DEs on the market. That are around Avril's age. I think that's what entices the Lions the most they drafted him and he's only 27. One player that might be undervalued is William Hayes of the Rams. They have Chris Long and Robert Quinn. He's a great DE, but he's just not better then those two. Signing Hayes, Jackson, and Young and makes a lot more sense then Avril. Hayes is 28 years old.
Delmas
Delmas will hopefully be retained right around the 51 man average. He's so fast and covers so much ground, but when he only plays a couple of games it's hard to play a player. This one is tough. Limited cap space and a star player that has been injured. The Lions need two safeties. I think this one should workout. Hopefully he has a healthy season.
It helps that similar to Avril Delmas isn't the bell of the ball this year. Some years both of them could possibly be, but not this year. Byrd is probably the prize possession this year. Same age as Delmas at 26. Goldson and Reed are also free agents. 49ers have the cap space to offer Goldson a big contract.
Durant and Levy
It will be tough to retain both of them. It seems to me that the league is turning into a 3-4 league. Personally I think retaining Durant and Levy are free agent priority 1. I say that because I'd rather have consistent players money tied up then injury proned Delmas. Delmas should be the next priority then Young and Jackson. Why Durant and Levy 1 though? They compliment each other and a cohesive LB group is important. The more Levy, Durant, and Tulloch play together the better they should be. Knowing strengths and weaknesses around you are important. Now realistically Levy lacks run support and Durant lacks pass coverage skills meaning the OLB compliment one another. On paper each LB is only a two down back. Letting Levy play weakside helps him play the run support role. With Levy that helps Durant take a breather in nickel and dime situations. They're both young and have a lot to learn. If they can progress this could be a great trio.
Stafford is over $20 million currently. Everyone is speculating that Stafford's restructure will free cap space, but if he's going to have a bigger contract that's a huge mistake. He should probably count more against the cap this year. Now over 1/5 of the cap space is tied up in quarterbacks alone and there are more then 5 positions total. Stafford makes right around Tom Brady. Best is a killer because he makes just under $2 mill and it's a guaranteed rookie contract and there's little that can be done. It's huge if Best plays. Lions cannot keep investing in RBs and WRs. Titus Young will count just under $1 mill just pure debt weight. Now Megatron makes $12.2 mill. In a league where WRs and RBs are a dime a dozen this kills the Lions, but Megatron is a special player and is worth the money. Suh costs over $18 mill. That's a huge issue. Drafting early pre rookie salary cap is a killer. I cannot say that Suh is with $18 mill, but he was the second overall draft pick. For someone that doesn't play the run, I'll be happy when his salary has expired. If someone wants to pay him $15 mill a year that's fine, but I just hope it's not Detroit.
On the safe end the Lions have $12 million of free cap space. Keep in mind there are a ton of players to sign. Lions need too not continue to dig themselves in a deeper hole. Tulloch is the only starting LB under contract. On the entire DL there are only 2 names that I even recognize. Suh and Fairley. There are a few restricted free agents on that list, but of that $12 they will need some of it. Talking at least 4 DEs and 2 DTs.
As much as I'd like to see the Lions draft Tavon Austin and Marcus Lattimore I worry about dead money down the road on the same position where the position is a dime a dozen. Lions need safeties and CBs badly. Their offense should be high powered enough with all the money there. You can't put more money in the offense and improve the CBs unless you get some diamond in the roughs which the Lions have on the DL. I wouldn't mind seeing if they can step up this year.
Lets take a look at the Lions big free agents.
Avril
What Avril is looking for will take up the majority of the cap and have a back logged issue. The Lions cannot sign him anywhere near what he wants. Personally I don't think there's room for half of what he wants and he'll get that on the market. The Lions didn't get to the QB last year. The DL was also horrible against the run. Avril is probably valued on the high end of $7.5 mill. Which most people will over pay. Someone is worth what someone is willing to pay. Lions just can't afford sadly it's a business and Avril needs to play for someone else next season for the first time in his career. Side note it's understood that it is a business. People like Revis holding out saying it's a business and he wants a new contract. Then when it isn't on his end it's no longer a business. If you haven't heard he's complaining about getting traded and not told anything. It's tough Avril needs to do what is best for himself and he can get more money elsewhere and we can't blame him. We also can't blame organizations for cutting players
There are actually a few DEs on the market. That are around Avril's age. I think that's what entices the Lions the most they drafted him and he's only 27. One player that might be undervalued is William Hayes of the Rams. They have Chris Long and Robert Quinn. He's a great DE, but he's just not better then those two. Signing Hayes, Jackson, and Young and makes a lot more sense then Avril. Hayes is 28 years old.
Delmas
Delmas will hopefully be retained right around the 51 man average. He's so fast and covers so much ground, but when he only plays a couple of games it's hard to play a player. This one is tough. Limited cap space and a star player that has been injured. The Lions need two safeties. I think this one should workout. Hopefully he has a healthy season.
It helps that similar to Avril Delmas isn't the bell of the ball this year. Some years both of them could possibly be, but not this year. Byrd is probably the prize possession this year. Same age as Delmas at 26. Goldson and Reed are also free agents. 49ers have the cap space to offer Goldson a big contract.
Durant and Levy
It will be tough to retain both of them. It seems to me that the league is turning into a 3-4 league. Personally I think retaining Durant and Levy are free agent priority 1. I say that because I'd rather have consistent players money tied up then injury proned Delmas. Delmas should be the next priority then Young and Jackson. Why Durant and Levy 1 though? They compliment each other and a cohesive LB group is important. The more Levy, Durant, and Tulloch play together the better they should be. Knowing strengths and weaknesses around you are important. Now realistically Levy lacks run support and Durant lacks pass coverage skills meaning the OLB compliment one another. On paper each LB is only a two down back. Letting Levy play weakside helps him play the run support role. With Levy that helps Durant take a breather in nickel and dime situations. They're both young and have a lot to learn. If they can progress this could be a great trio.
Sunday, January 20, 2013
2013 Mock Draft 1.0
I'm rolling out my first mock draft. Only the last four spots are yet to be determined. As always when you have a QB your hoping several QBs are taken early. All QBs are wildcards. I honestly think there's a small chance no QB gets taken in the first round. That's never the case. Usually someone supposedly "reaches" for a QB. Jake Lock and Christian Ponder draft is a great example.
KC Chiefs
Do the Chiefs think Geno Smith is their franchise QB? They actually have a decent team, but they desperately need a QB. I'll be shocked if they don't take a QB here. Whether their convinced they have an all prowl QB.
The Pick
-Geno Smith
Possibilities
-Luke Joeckel
-QB
I don't think there are a lot of choices.If they like a QB better then Smith then obviously he'll be the pick. Smith made some great throws and is multidimensional. Jarvis Jones is supposedly too much of a risk. I truly think this pick is either Luke or Geno.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars want a QB. When teams want a QB they tend to draft their choice as early as they can. When it comes to these picks you just can't think logically. Well I'm going to think logically for now. Maybe the Jags try to get a QB out on the market. They still need someone that can be flashy.
The Pick
-Jarvis Jones
Possibilities
-DE
-Luke Joeckel
-QB
I think Luke is the right pick, but I don't think that's whose name will be called. In fact I don't think he'll be considered too much. A lot of people have Jarvis falling down. I think he's someone who is going to kill it at the combine. When people stop chattering and put on the game film teams are going to fall in love with him. Now if teams find something wrong with his mental state they will stay away. I have Bjoern Werner as the next best DE.
Oakland Raiders
Pick
-Star Lotulelei
This really should be a no brainer. They may consider a QB or Luke Joeckel, but Star is a stud and they need him. He's not a sexy pick. I think this guy can be one of the greats. These guys win more games then people realize just because they don't get on the stat sheet as much doesn't mean anything.
Philadelphia Eagles
I want to pick another QB here. This is such a toss a pick. Especially with a new head coach coming in. If Geno Smith is here I'd be shocked if he wasn't the pick. What kind of Guy does Chip Kelley want? Luke Joeckel makes sense here. Coaches are just as biased as any human being.
Pick
-Matt Barkley
I know it doesn't make sense. Eagles need a QB. Chip is going to want his guy. He's seen Matt for years and might be biased towards him. He had one bad year. I think most people have Mike Glennon and probably Tyler Wilson ahead of Barkley. Otherwise this pick will be a DE, QB, or Luke.
Detroit Lions
Pick
-Luke Joeckel
If this is the case which it probably won't be this is a no brainer. I struggle thinking how Joeckel could drop this far. Last year I said the same thing about DeCastro and the Lions passed on him. For those of you wondering we already have a LT. Reiff is better at RT. Be nice to have 3 tackles. This would make the Cherilus decision easier. This is an ideal situation and actually realistic if they get Luke. Reiff wasn't better then Backus, Luke is. Luke LT and Reiff RT would be pillars for years to come. Backus would kick out Peterman and play LG. None of the CBs in this drafts are deserving of a top five pick. Lions need to not reach. Now I don't agree with the best player available model. If there was a top 5 CB I'd probably want him over Luke. I think Luke is the best guy in this draft. If Luke isn't here which is likely. It's going to be a DE.
Browns
I think they really want to build their offense.
Pick
Bjoern Werner
Most people have Werner and Damontre Moore interchangeable. There's just not many offense of players you can draft over the DEs unless you need a QB.
Arizona Cardinals
They desperately want a Trent Richardson. I think they like their defense a pass rusher is a possibility. Most poeple have Moore gone. If he's a available I think they'll struggle passing on him. If they like a QB they'll take him though.
Pick
-Mike Glennon
Buffalo Bills
Pick
-Tyler Wilson
They signed several free agents last year. They expected more.If they want a QB they're going to take one.
NY Jet
Pick
Damonte Moore
They'll draft on the defensive side. Moore is a top five pick possibly. They'd be happy with him. Jarvis Jones would be their ideal guy. Dion Jordan is also a possibility. Barkevious Mingo is a better fit for them so he could also be the picked.
Tennessee Titans
Pick
DeMarcus Milliner
They wanted a CB last year. Gilmore and Kirkpatrick were gone. You have Milliner who is more refined and then you have Banks who has size but is very raw.
San Diego Chargers
Pick
Barkevious Mingo
I think they'll look at this as a steal. He fits their team. They could use Banks or Jonathan Hankins is a possibility. If they like Eric Fisher they'll take him.
Miami Dolphins
They are going to retain Jake Long. Everyone thinks with a bad draft class they're going to take a chance on a WR. Keenan Allen should be the guy if that's the case. Cordarrelle Patterson is an option, but I don't see it. Personally I think they try to get a TE and move down. Someone is going to want someone and move up. This is a good spot to do it. I just struggle seeing it.
Pick
Keenan Allen
Tampa Bay Bucs
Pick
Johnthan Banks
They need a CB. They passed on Morris Claiborne last year by trading out. Now Talib has been traded.
Carolina Panthers
Pick
Ezekial Ansah
This guy is a freak more of a 3/4 guy. He's expected to wow at the combine.
New Orleans Saints
Pick
Xavier Rhodes
Not getting much love, but I really like him. Fast good ball skills CB. I think his ball skills are underrated.
St. Louis Rams
Pick
Eric Fisher
They need to get Bradford some help. All the Junior LTs staying in school this pick is easier.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Pick
Manti Te'o
Manti doesn't have the physical attributes that you love, but he's a leader and that projects him as a mid first rounder. I don't think #catfish is going to affect him.
Dallas Cowboys
Sheldon Richards
I think with them moving to a 4-3 DT is a very likely pick.
NY Giants
Kenny Vaccaro
They like their safeties, but they don't have a stud. DE makes sense. There's Dion Jordan and Sam Montgomery. Osi is a free agent and Tuck had a down year. DE made sense. I think they'll retain Osi and like Tuck. They don't want to draft someone they don't see on the field much. They're not the Lions.
Chicago Bears
Chance Warmack
Tackles tend to go before guards. Warmack and Barrett from Bama have projected as a mid first rounder, but their position tends to move them down. Lane Johnson the tackle out of Oklahoma is a likely pick, but OL is probably it.
Cincinnati Bengals
Dion Jordan
Likely to be on the defensive side. Kenny Vaccaro is a likely pick. They might like Sam Montgomery more also.
St. Louis Rams
Tyler Eifert
More help for Bradford. Give him the best TE supposedly in the draft. The rams have drafted very well lately. Which means we tend to agree. I think they know they can get one of these WRs later
Minnesota Vikings
Jesse Williams
They need a DT. They're more likely to draft a WR, but I think the obviousness of Kevin Williams' age at 33 and they don't have anyone next to him right now as it is. Who knows who they like best. Johnathan Jenkins is another DT. The WR would probably be Patterson.
Indianapolis Colts
Johnathan Hankins
I think this pick has to be on the defensive side pretty much anywhere
Seattle Seahawks
John Jenkins
They need a DT. They may want to give Russell another weapon as well. Zach Ertz at TE is a possibility too.
Green Bay Packers
Zach Ertz
They're going to need to replace Finley who is 90% gone.
Houston Texans
Kevin Minter
They could use a stud ILB. Otherwise I think it would be a WR.
Denver Broncos
Sharrif Floyd
They could use help on the interior defensive side. They didn't get who they wanted. A team relying on Manning may give him more weapons.
New England Patriots
Tavon Austin
This guy had a great year. I don't think they'll go for Patterson. Safety like Matt Elam is a possibility.
Atlanta Falcons
Bennie Logan
Keep in mind this isn't a great draft class. There is some good DEs. The Falcons need a DT desperately.
San Francisco 49ers
Corey Patterson
I like Terrance Williams more, but Patterson is supposedly the guy. I think if it's not a WR they'll draft a rush OLB
Baltimore Ravens
Matt Elam
Ed Reed is getting up in age. They pick 32 I think he'll retire. There is somethign about going out on top. Especially with Ray gone.
Crazy illogical run on QBs. Lions drafting a position back to back years in a row. Probably draft another WR in the second round, they need one.
Lions Second Round Possibilities
-Barrett Jones Center
-Tony Jefferson Safety
-Xavier Rhodes CB (he could fall anywhere)
-Stedman Bailey WR - if you have to draft a WR this is the guy. He could be a 3rd rounder
3rd Round
-William Gholston De
-Jamar Taylor CB
-Bacarri Rambo S
-Tyrann Mathieu CB
The Lions don't have a 4th rounder.
KC Chiefs
Do the Chiefs think Geno Smith is their franchise QB? They actually have a decent team, but they desperately need a QB. I'll be shocked if they don't take a QB here. Whether their convinced they have an all prowl QB.
The Pick
-Geno Smith
Possibilities
-Luke Joeckel
-QB
I don't think there are a lot of choices.If they like a QB better then Smith then obviously he'll be the pick. Smith made some great throws and is multidimensional. Jarvis Jones is supposedly too much of a risk. I truly think this pick is either Luke or Geno.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars want a QB. When teams want a QB they tend to draft their choice as early as they can. When it comes to these picks you just can't think logically. Well I'm going to think logically for now. Maybe the Jags try to get a QB out on the market. They still need someone that can be flashy.
The Pick
-Jarvis Jones
Possibilities
-DE
-Luke Joeckel
-QB
I think Luke is the right pick, but I don't think that's whose name will be called. In fact I don't think he'll be considered too much. A lot of people have Jarvis falling down. I think he's someone who is going to kill it at the combine. When people stop chattering and put on the game film teams are going to fall in love with him. Now if teams find something wrong with his mental state they will stay away. I have Bjoern Werner as the next best DE.
Oakland Raiders
Pick
-Star Lotulelei
This really should be a no brainer. They may consider a QB or Luke Joeckel, but Star is a stud and they need him. He's not a sexy pick. I think this guy can be one of the greats. These guys win more games then people realize just because they don't get on the stat sheet as much doesn't mean anything.
Philadelphia Eagles
I want to pick another QB here. This is such a toss a pick. Especially with a new head coach coming in. If Geno Smith is here I'd be shocked if he wasn't the pick. What kind of Guy does Chip Kelley want? Luke Joeckel makes sense here. Coaches are just as biased as any human being.
Pick
-Matt Barkley
I know it doesn't make sense. Eagles need a QB. Chip is going to want his guy. He's seen Matt for years and might be biased towards him. He had one bad year. I think most people have Mike Glennon and probably Tyler Wilson ahead of Barkley. Otherwise this pick will be a DE, QB, or Luke.
Detroit Lions
Pick
-Luke Joeckel
If this is the case which it probably won't be this is a no brainer. I struggle thinking how Joeckel could drop this far. Last year I said the same thing about DeCastro and the Lions passed on him. For those of you wondering we already have a LT. Reiff is better at RT. Be nice to have 3 tackles. This would make the Cherilus decision easier. This is an ideal situation and actually realistic if they get Luke. Reiff wasn't better then Backus, Luke is. Luke LT and Reiff RT would be pillars for years to come. Backus would kick out Peterman and play LG. None of the CBs in this drafts are deserving of a top five pick. Lions need to not reach. Now I don't agree with the best player available model. If there was a top 5 CB I'd probably want him over Luke. I think Luke is the best guy in this draft. If Luke isn't here which is likely. It's going to be a DE.
Browns
I think they really want to build their offense.
Pick
Bjoern Werner
Most people have Werner and Damontre Moore interchangeable. There's just not many offense of players you can draft over the DEs unless you need a QB.
Arizona Cardinals
They desperately want a Trent Richardson. I think they like their defense a pass rusher is a possibility. Most poeple have Moore gone. If he's a available I think they'll struggle passing on him. If they like a QB they'll take him though.
Pick
-Mike Glennon
Buffalo Bills
Pick
-Tyler Wilson
They signed several free agents last year. They expected more.If they want a QB they're going to take one.
NY Jet
Pick
Damonte Moore
They'll draft on the defensive side. Moore is a top five pick possibly. They'd be happy with him. Jarvis Jones would be their ideal guy. Dion Jordan is also a possibility. Barkevious Mingo is a better fit for them so he could also be the picked.
Tennessee Titans
Pick
DeMarcus Milliner
They wanted a CB last year. Gilmore and Kirkpatrick were gone. You have Milliner who is more refined and then you have Banks who has size but is very raw.
San Diego Chargers
Pick
Barkevious Mingo
I think they'll look at this as a steal. He fits their team. They could use Banks or Jonathan Hankins is a possibility. If they like Eric Fisher they'll take him.
Miami Dolphins
They are going to retain Jake Long. Everyone thinks with a bad draft class they're going to take a chance on a WR. Keenan Allen should be the guy if that's the case. Cordarrelle Patterson is an option, but I don't see it. Personally I think they try to get a TE and move down. Someone is going to want someone and move up. This is a good spot to do it. I just struggle seeing it.
Pick
Keenan Allen
Tampa Bay Bucs
Pick
Johnthan Banks
They need a CB. They passed on Morris Claiborne last year by trading out. Now Talib has been traded.
Carolina Panthers
Pick
Ezekial Ansah
This guy is a freak more of a 3/4 guy. He's expected to wow at the combine.
New Orleans Saints
Pick
Xavier Rhodes
Not getting much love, but I really like him. Fast good ball skills CB. I think his ball skills are underrated.
St. Louis Rams
Pick
Eric Fisher
They need to get Bradford some help. All the Junior LTs staying in school this pick is easier.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Pick
Manti Te'o
Manti doesn't have the physical attributes that you love, but he's a leader and that projects him as a mid first rounder. I don't think #catfish is going to affect him.
Dallas Cowboys
Sheldon Richards
I think with them moving to a 4-3 DT is a very likely pick.
NY Giants
Kenny Vaccaro
They like their safeties, but they don't have a stud. DE makes sense. There's Dion Jordan and Sam Montgomery. Osi is a free agent and Tuck had a down year. DE made sense. I think they'll retain Osi and like Tuck. They don't want to draft someone they don't see on the field much. They're not the Lions.
Chicago Bears
Chance Warmack
Tackles tend to go before guards. Warmack and Barrett from Bama have projected as a mid first rounder, but their position tends to move them down. Lane Johnson the tackle out of Oklahoma is a likely pick, but OL is probably it.
Cincinnati Bengals
Dion Jordan
Likely to be on the defensive side. Kenny Vaccaro is a likely pick. They might like Sam Montgomery more also.
St. Louis Rams
Tyler Eifert
More help for Bradford. Give him the best TE supposedly in the draft. The rams have drafted very well lately. Which means we tend to agree. I think they know they can get one of these WRs later
Minnesota Vikings
Jesse Williams
They need a DT. They're more likely to draft a WR, but I think the obviousness of Kevin Williams' age at 33 and they don't have anyone next to him right now as it is. Who knows who they like best. Johnathan Jenkins is another DT. The WR would probably be Patterson.
Indianapolis Colts
Johnathan Hankins
I think this pick has to be on the defensive side pretty much anywhere
Seattle Seahawks
John Jenkins
They need a DT. They may want to give Russell another weapon as well. Zach Ertz at TE is a possibility too.
Green Bay Packers
Zach Ertz
They're going to need to replace Finley who is 90% gone.
Houston Texans
Kevin Minter
They could use a stud ILB. Otherwise I think it would be a WR.
Denver Broncos
Sharrif Floyd
They could use help on the interior defensive side. They didn't get who they wanted. A team relying on Manning may give him more weapons.
New England Patriots
Tavon Austin
This guy had a great year. I don't think they'll go for Patterson. Safety like Matt Elam is a possibility.
Atlanta Falcons
Bennie Logan
Keep in mind this isn't a great draft class. There is some good DEs. The Falcons need a DT desperately.
San Francisco 49ers
Corey Patterson
I like Terrance Williams more, but Patterson is supposedly the guy. I think if it's not a WR they'll draft a rush OLB
Baltimore Ravens
Matt Elam
Ed Reed is getting up in age. They pick 32 I think he'll retire. There is somethign about going out on top. Especially with Ray gone.
Crazy illogical run on QBs. Lions drafting a position back to back years in a row. Probably draft another WR in the second round, they need one.
Lions Second Round Possibilities
-Barrett Jones Center
-Tony Jefferson Safety
-Xavier Rhodes CB (he could fall anywhere)
-Stedman Bailey WR - if you have to draft a WR this is the guy. He could be a 3rd rounder
3rd Round
-William Gholston De
-Jamar Taylor CB
-Bacarri Rambo S
-Tyrann Mathieu CB
The Lions don't have a 4th rounder.
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
What Happened?
The Lions are one year removed from the playoffs. This year we won a whopping 4 games. A long ways from the playoffs. This is what I think happened this year.
Schedule
Almost 3 teams in the division went to the playoffs and two did. 9/16 were games against playoff teams. I'm not sold on the Vikings. The teams that aren't in the playoffs aren't very good teams minus the Bears. Clearly something with the Eagles wasn't working. Lost to two rookie qbs. The schedule wasn't easy, but it wasn't extreme. It certainly wasn't the reason for the collapse.
Offense
Our offense was a major factor to our losses. We were supposed to be a sub par defense and high potent offense. First of all the offense of line played fantastic. Ranked first in adjust sack rating and just above middle of the pack 15th in adjusted line yards (run blocking). The Lions passed the ball more then anyone in history and ranked only behind the Saints in pass yards. Now the Lions use the passing game as an extension of the running game which worked well. Clearly running out of the shotgun did not. Offense clearly did not wake up till the 4th quarter too many times. I don't know how to explain that. I do know what I watched. I watched several 3rd and shorts that weren't converted for simple reasons. So many games lost because of dropped balls. Calvin had too many. Pettigrew was the contributor of too many drops and too many fumbles. Good thing about Pettigrew in todays game it is rare to have a guy like Scheffler who is a pass catching TE and Heller who is a run blocking TE. Now to the running game. We were missing out on our home threat RB. We averaged 100.8 yards per game. For a team that throws the ball a lot I don't think that's bad. Mikel Leshoure is a good powerful back. Bell was a home run. Which unless it's an Adrian Petersen or a Calvin Johnson I think WR and RBs really are a dime of a dozen. It's just position I think it's a waste to draft early like we do every year. Our other 3rd down problem after two runs of a total of five yards, Stafford misses a wide open WR by a mile. For you that watched every game you know what I'm talking about. Good pocket wide open WR for the first and it was usually an air mail. I think that Stafford has to be lazy in practice and is lackadaisical in his throwing motion. I hate talking about throwing motions, but there are superior ways to throw the ball. Stafford made some great throws under pressure on the run, but he missed throws a third string QB in the NFL shouldn't miss. Stafford also threw 17 interceptions. I hate the TD to interception ratio. A team that can pound the ball in it really isn't fair. The Lions ran the ball better down in the redzone. Stafford clearly threw too many interceptions.
To sum things up. Turnovers, lack of third down conversions, and lack of consistency.
Defense
I thought the defense played well. Maybe it's expectations. I do think the anointed best front four played mediocre. 20th in sacks and 16th in run defense. On stats I'd almost say that the offense running game was better performers then the front four defense. This front four was suppose to be the best. Maybe the sacks were mediocre because of the patchwork secondary. I think the qb had time to throw it. Front four were undisciplined in their rushing lanes. Wide 9 is made for getting to the QB. They were offsides a lot. They had every advantage to get their individual sacks. One thing that we struggle with is blitzing. Which was rare, but our LBs and CBs didn't blitz well. The LBs overall were inconsistent. At times the play side LB would be selfish and try to make the play and worst part is they didn't turn the RB back inside towards the help and mainly Tulloch. The front seven were consistent tacklers. They missed a few, but it happens. It's nothing like it was a couple of years ago. I thought the CBs really overachieved. Houston had one game. Other then that he played 15 starting quality games. I said he was a number 2 guy and he may have proved me wrong. We need better play out of our safety. Considering how many points the offense simply gave up on turnovers the defense played great.
Special Teams
Absolutely awful. I don't even want to talk about it.
Injuries
This is everyone's excuse. Injuries are apart of the game. Deal with it.
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