The NFL Mock Draft (New Mock!!!)

Alright, news and notes are flying around, and the draft is a month away. I can’t wait. My newest mock draft takes into account the most recent happenings in the NFL (as of March 24th), how I rank the players, as well as team needs, team histories, and the dirt on what’s been going down during workouts and scout evaluations. Dream big!!!

1. Detroit Lions- Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia: The Lions probably have to take Stafford here. I don’t like the pick for them, I think they can wait to get a quarterback next year, or even later in the draft, but it is what it is, and they have no future stud quarterback and they are a floundering franchise, and they have the top pick in a class that has no clear number one – so they’ll do what almost any other franchise would do in that situation and grab the big upside quarterback, and they’ll likely find themselves right back in this spot next year with a quarterback that they’re still not sure about, but maybe there will be a number one that seperates himself, and hopefully for the Lions that isn’t Sam Bradford. As much as I hate to admit it, Stafford is probably the pick the Lions will choose. Seeing as though the Lions will likely have a shot at a solid OT with the 20th pick, because it’s a deep position, they probably have to make this move. Stafford teaming up with Britton or Oher  makes more sense than Jason Smith and Josh Freeman, in my opinion. I would take Jason Smith here and a stud defensive prospect at #20, but I’m a front line guy – I don’t build teams the Lion way…

2. St. Louis Rams- Jason Smith, OT, Baylor: I thought the Rams would make a pick like this even before they released one of the better offensive tackles of all time, Orlando Pace. With the big OT gone, they’ll take their pick of the deepest position in the draft. Jason Smith looks to have the most upside and the best motor, a fantastic combo for your QB protector to possess, and thus he’ll likely go here.

3. Kansas City Chiefs- Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest: The Chiefs need to get better in more than a few places, and they’ll likely consider taking offensive line help here. But, with a defensive difference maker available for one of the league’s worst defenses, a guy that many consider the best overall talent in the draft, Curry seems to be the best fit at #3.

4. Seattle Seahawks- Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia: Seeing that the defensive tackle spot wasn’t very deep, and probably deciding that they didn’t want to throw their 4th pick at B.J. Raji, the Hawks went ahead and traded one of their playmaking linebackers to pick up a solid young DT that has upside. That leaves the Hawks in a great place to get better where they need help the most. They’ll take either Aaron Curry or Eugene Monroe. I have the Chiefs grabbing Curry at 3, which will get Monroe, the most polished and consistent left tackle in the draft, a plane ticket to Sea-Tac.

5. Cleveland Browns- Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas: First of all, I wouldn’t be surprised if Mangini and the Browns make a move that changes their need and or pick selection heading into the draft. Right now lets assume that all the players on the Browns roster stay in Cleveland. If that’s the case, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Brian Orakpo go here. Mangini took a chance on a hybrid backer last year, and Orakpo is a much better player with more “now” skills than Vernon Gholston was, and he has the same sack happy upside as last year’s top pick.

6. Cincinnati Bengals- B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College: Cincinnati needs defensive help. I don’t think they could make a better pick at this point than Raji. B.J. is a beast and has excelled in key off-season areas such as the senior bowl and the combine. Put that performance together with his hard work at Boston College and you have a great prospect at one of the draft’s weakest positions. This might be too smart of a pick for the Bengals.

7. Oakland Raiders- Andre Smith, OT, Alabama: Not even God knows what Al Davis and the Raiders will do now. Some like to think that Michael Crabtree will be the guy, and while he certainly is the most popular and well known prospect here, I’m not so sure he’s even Al’s favorite WR prospect. That might go to lightning quick Maclin or physical freak Darrius Heyward-Bey. That being said, I think the Raiders stun the masses, skip over elite skill players, and grab Andre Smith. The big tackle has seen his stock tumble a bit, but I wouldn’t be surprised one bit if he finds his way into the Top 10. The Raiders don’t seem to care much about character, and personality aside, Smith is one of the most talented big men in this draft.

8. Jacksonville Jaguars- Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech: The Jaguars should count their blessings if Crabtree falls to them. It’s not often that you get an elite offensive NFL talent in a position you desperately need. There are a few people with their heads slammed directly up their hoo-hoo’s that think the Jaguars need to go quarterback here. Because Garrard is 31. Please. This isn’t running back here, and it’s not like Garrard failed last season without any real receiving threats and no offensive line. The Jaguars could take Oher or maybe even an awe inspiring selection of Rey Maualuga, amongst many others, but Crabtree is everything they’ve asked for since Jimmy Smith got caught in the life cycle aging process.

9. Green Bay Packers- Aaron Maybin, DE, Penn State: The Packers seem like they’re looking for more of a “now” player than Aaron Maybin might be, but I really like the Penn State product. The Packers might be choosing between him and Everett Brown, and while I like Brown’s athleticism, I happen to think Maybin’s upside is greater. Both are young players that need some time. but Maybin could be special and the Packers should go that direction.

10. San Francisco 49ers- Mark Sanchez, QB, Southern California: If the Raiders go dumb and take the most impressive 40-time or just find better value in another positioin, that might leave Andre Smith here for Iron Mike and the 49ers. If that’s the case, I don’t see them passing up on the big OT even though his “work ethic” might not roll with the former Bears great. However, Mike can motivate a mole to sunbathe, so one of the most talented OTs in the draft at pick 10 would make sense. Since he’s not here in my mock, that leaves two choices I see the 49ers choosing between – Mark Sanchez and Jeremy Maclin. I like Shaun Hill, but he’s not a future pro-bowler by any means. Sanchez has the leadership and work ethic that Mike Singletary and his staff would love. Maclin would give the team a nice gamebreaking option on a team that relies too heavily on Frank Gore. For a team building for the future, Sanchez gets the nod. All in all, there might be a couple teams looking to shoot up to grab Sanchez. If there’s an option out there, the 49ers could pass on the SC product.

11. Buffalo Bills- Everette Brown, DE, Florida State: If there’s any team that needs defensive playmakers as much as the Detroit Lions, it’s the Buffalo Bills. Everett Brown might be a bit of a tweener, but he’s a physical freak of an athlete that does everything he can to put pressure on opposing backfields. Brown could play OLB for the Bills, but could immediately give them pass rush help on passing downs.

12. Denver Broncos- Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU: If there’s a dying breed of player it’s the DE in a 3-4 scheme. With pass rushers getting faster and more athletic, the big space eating ends that do it all have almost disappeared. Jackson is the only real player out there with a first round grade. The Broncos need a lot of help, mostly on the defensive side of the ball, and Jackson looks like a great fit to start his career with first year coach Josh McDaniels in Denver.

13. Washington Redskins- Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi: The Redskins could stun a few folks here by grabbing Jeremy Maclin. Maclin would be a nice number 2 option, the one they were looking for when they spent two first day picks on receivers that disappointed last year. He would allow Randel-El to work in the slot where he’s more effective, and relieve some deep help on Santana Moss. However, I think the Redskins give their young receivers another year to establish themselves and take a chance on an elite offensive tackle prospect in Michael Oher. They need help protecting the quarterback, if you watched them in the 2nd half of 2008, that fact is obvious. Oher might have moments where he shows his youth, but those team with moments of greatness.

14. New Orleans Saints- Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State: If the Saints draft a running back here, you can’t even begin to imagine the failing grade I’ll give them on draft day. They have a great pass catching back in Reggie Bush, one they spend a ton of money on. They also have an even better back in Pierre Thomas, one they don’t seem to like much despite his elite production when given a chance. Beanie Wells is still on the board, but if they know what’s good for them, the Saints will leave him there. Maclin is also available, and you never know what Payton will trick his GM into doing, but Jeremy should stay on the board as well. This team needs to take a chance on defense, and get their offensive help later in the draft. Brain Cushing, Peria Jerry, or Michael Jenkins are three options I like here, with Jenkins being the best for the Saints. He may not have timed out well in the 40, but he has great ability to help a defense that stinks at just about everything.

15. Houston Texans- Brian Cushing, OLB, Southern California: Could the Texans draft Jeremy Maclin? A kid whose gamebreaking ability projected higher than this pick in the draft? The Texans have solid offensive talent, and they probably don’t “need” Maclin, but what a tandem that could be… Still, that’s my fantasy hopes busting into my real football knowledge, and that’s very unlikely to happen. What else is unlikely to happen? The Texans taking a running back this high, so those who expect Beanie or Knowshon to be a Texan, think again. I think the Texans could improve if they got help at defensive end, and maybe outside linebaker (though I do like Xavier Adibi and his future with the club). Brian Cushing could be an immediate impact guy, a linebacker that is effective on all downs – something that shouldn’t be overlooked. I think Cushing is a bit of a reach here, but he fits. A freak like Michael Johnson could really benefit from all the attention Super Mario gets, but he’s even more of a reach because of his inconsistency. I think Cushing fits the bill here.

16. San Diego Chargers- Rey Maualuga, ILB, Southern California: What a difference a year makes. The Chargers came into the ’08 draft with the “pick the best player, we don’t have any huge needs” thing going for them, and everyone thought they’d be a Super Bowl contender. As it turned out, they struggled like a fish out of water just to make the playoffs, but once they got there it looked like they belonged. But the off season hasn’t done much to secure the make-up of this team. Merriman is expected to be back after missing most of the ’08 season, and LT fixed his contract which allowed him to stay. Darren Sproles looks to get more touches in 2009, but the Chargers could still use some help making holes for their two headed running back monster. With LT back, I don’t think the Chargers will waste an early pick on a running back, no need to spend another 6 million on the RB position. Vincent Jackson’s immergence, Antonio Gates greatness, and Chris Chambers’ consistency seems to keep any focus off the skill positions in Round 1, even though it’s not all about needs. If Jenkins falls this far, they have to grab the corner/safety. He’s too solid to pass up for a team that ranked 31st in pass defense and I think he could play anywhere for them. They could take a shot on a guy like Vontae Davis but I wouldn’t go there.  I think they end up taking Rey Maualuga. The USC product is a tackling machine, and they could really use a sure thing in the middle of their defense.

17. New York Jets- Beanie Wells, RB, Ohio State: Coles absence and Maclin falling right into their laps gives the Jets a great option here. They could go for Freeman if they really think he could be the long term answer, but Maclin is a big time game breaker that can do things most players can’t. He’d help the field position game and allow the Jets to use Cotchery’s skill set more appropriately. At 17th overall, this kid might be a steal for the Jets. However, the I have this feeling that the Jets might grab the first running back in the draft. Thomas Jones is talking hold out, and he wants a raise (and probably deserves one, despite his age), so they could cut him loose and draft a back with all the talent in the world. This would allow them to use Leon Washington more, a guy that has proven his worth when he gets the touches. Thunder and Lightening? Lots of ways the Jets could draft under their new staff – but I’m throwing my wild card out there with the OSU big back.

18. Chicago Bears- Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland: Heyward-Bey is a physical specimen, no doubt about that – but there’s not doubt in my mind that Maclin is the better receiver. However, in Chicago this big bad fast son of a gun might be the perfect fit. He and Devin Hester could prove to be a tough combo to cover. If Mark Sanchez is still here, I think the Bears go with the USC product. As is, they are looking for more explosion and while Bey might not be the immediate answer, his upside and elite numbers likely get him the nod in Chicago.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri: More than a few people have Josh Freeman going here. I don’t think that’s the best move for the Bucs, especially with an elite prospect falling into their laps. Antonio Bryant did big things in Tampa last season, but Maclin would only assure the explosive nature of the offensive weapons being gathered in Tampa. This team has a solid offensive line, so nice running options, and will have a nice plethora of receiver options with Kellen Winslow, Bryant, and Maclin. Probably not a need, but the best prospect on the board is Maclin if the speedster falls this far.

20. Detroit Lions (from Dallas)- Jerry Peria, DT, Mississippi: The Lions traded a promising young defensive tackle to grab perrenial Pro-Bowl OLB Julian Peterson from the Hawks. Getting this quick underrated tackle would be a great bargain because after Peria the talent level at the position really drops off. The Lions need lots of options, no doubt about that, they could go with a project like Robert Ayers, OT Eben Britton, or if they decided to go with Jason Smith in Round 1, Josh Freeman maybe? Like I said, there will be a lot decided by draft day, but as is Peria would be a nice pick for the Lions here, especially with the strengths of the draft the way they are.

21. Philadelphia Eagles- Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia: I see Moreno as a Maurice Jones-Drew type runner, a smaller back that runs with elite physicality and power. A guy that is super quick and not afraid of contact at the same time. Moreno has all the athleticism to be a run and catch player for the Eagles, and while Philly has always looked for a big back to compliment Westy, they may walk right into the Brian Westbrook of the future. They don’t run exactly the same, but I do think Moreno has a high ceiling. Now, it’s unlike the Eagles to grab a running back in the 1st round, they are usually more interested in line moves, but even if the don’t go with Moreno here, I don’t think they’ll go for the line. Robert Ayers is an interesting option, but Brandon Pettigrew is my wild card. The big TE does it all, and with L.J. Smith moving teams (and having been hurt for more than a few games over the last couple years), Brandon could be a nice option for McNabb in the passing game. Still, I like Moreno’s fit in Philly.

22. Minnesota Vikings- Percy Harvin, WR, Florida: What a threat Percy could be as a change of pace guy with Adrian Peterson and a receiver both out of the back field, out wide, and in the slot. Harvin has freakish moves in the open field, and definitely will be a difference maker when healthy in the NFL. Do the Vikings need Harvin? I’m not so sure, but the fact that they went after T.J. Houshmanzadeh makes me think this is a possibility. Harvin and AP would form a disturbing duo for opposing defenses, and that’s something the Vikings could look forward too. And instead of stealing carries from AP, both could spend every down on the field together, with Harvin split out wide.

23. New England Patriots- Clay Matthews, OLB, Southern California: The Patriots need an outside linebacker, definitely, but there’s more than a few and though Matthews has been climbing the board like slick bottle rocket, I’m not sure that he’ll be a lock for New England at 23. It wouldn’t stun me for a second to see the Pats grab a guy like Brandon Pettigrew. He’s a very good blocker with very good hands and a great frame for red-zone activities and physical first downs through the air. He may not fit everything they do offensively, but a football player that does everything well seems like something they dig. As is, I think they go for Clay Mathews here because of his similar skill set. He does things well. He has a chance to start from Day 1 in New England, and this is a team ready to win now.

24. Atlanta Falcons- Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois: Lots of players to choose from for the talented yet youthful Falcons. I think Brandon would be a great fit for a run-first team that keeps their tight end blocking most of the time, but would love to have a useful option to sneak out into passing situations when needed. Pettigrew doesn’t run with the speed of an elite pass catcher, but he’s athletic, has great hands, and is one hell of a blocker. And I don’t think the Falcons would trade the third one for great speed, not the way they run their offense. That being said, Pettigrew is a TE, and I don’t know if the Falcons have enough talent to go tight end in Round 1. He may be more of a sure thing, but the Falcons need defensive help something fierce. They lost two starting linebackers and a starting corner on a defense that wasn’t elite to start with. So lets say they can’t afford to go TE here. Assuming that, Vontae Davis is on the board, and despite his knocks, he’s one of the more physically talented corners in the draft. That’s enough to take him at 24, something the Falcons might very well do.

25. Miami Dolphins- Robert Ayers, DE, Tennessee: I think Michael Johnson has all the ability to be one of the best pass rushers in this draft. He just needs to find the motivation to do so. Being a top 10 talent and dropping to 25 might be enough. Spending time on a Bill Parcells run team might be even more help. This kid is a freak, and has the athletic ability to even be considered as an OLB in the 3-4, at least I think so. However, I don’t know if a questionable motor guy is Parcells’ cup of tea, and thus he will probably get passed up again here. They could also go for Vontae Davis, as they certainly could use help in that secondary. However, I think they’ll take Robert Ayers. This kid was solid on a bad defense last season. He practices and plays well, and despite his mediocre times at the combine, has proven to be effective on the football field, using his skills and a solid motor. More Parcells style maybe? I think so.

26. Baltimore Ravens- Eben Britton, OT, Arizona: This kid is solid, and this offensive line needs to get some young help (at least for the future) for franchise quarterback Joe Flacco. Britton has great upside and with a monster frame and great quickness, he might be a steal at 26. I’m not sure that he’ll last this long with the importance of tackles and the way they seem to be screaming off the board over the past few years, but if he does go this far, the Ravens would be smart to grab him. Other options could be Vontae Davis, or maybe they go for an even bigger project with more freak upside like Michael Johnson – and use that strong willed defense to turn him into a rush linebacker sack artist. As is, I like Britton going here.

27. Indianapolis Colts- Evander “ZIGGY” Hood, DT, Missouri: Weird, the Colts are hurting for defensive line help on the interior. Hood is dancing up the draft charts, and for good reason. He’s very athletic and quick for a defensive tackle, and would fit well in the Colts system, if they indeed stay in that system. Some have said they’re looking for more size up front, but Hood is the best available, and the Colts could definitely use him.

28. Philadelphia Eagles (from Carolina)- Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State: Without a tackle to grab here, I wonder if the Eagles will even risk it by taking Moreno with their first of two picks in Round 1. That being said, I’m not going back on my picks because of the way the draft panned out, and the Eagles can go a couple different directions with this pick. They could grab Hakeem Nicks right here. They have a solid young receiver in DeSean Jackson, but Nicks would look nice on the opposite side. Still, they need help on the offensive line, even though they got better by signing Shawn Andrews’ big brother, Stacy, from the Bengals, they could still use a guy like Max Unger for the future. But I’m going with Pettigrew here because the kid is a stud, they just lost an injury plagued L.J. Smith to Baltimore, and Pettigrew not only helps out with the passing game but in the run game as well. He’s more than the 28th best player in this draft. I expect him to help from Day 1.

29. New York Giants- James Laurinaitis, LB, Ohio State: I really like Hakeem Nicks, and while I don’t think the Giants need to run and pick up the best receiver available because of Plax’s situation, I think Nicks is a nice receiver. Receiver galore in Round 1 though? I’m not so sure. Plus, as much as I like Nicks, the guy put on 15 pounds between the combine and pro day workouts, and is up over 225. Don’t be a pig for 30 days, help your draft stock, I mean come on man…. I think they could find a lot to like at the position in Round 2, and should instead build up their line in the draft with a guy like Max Unger or Alex Mack or maybe linebacker. And trading down is always an option, especially if they like a couple receivers here and don’t see need to pick another one in Round 1. All that being thrown about, I think the Giants see something they like in James Laurinaitis and go get him. He’s not great at shedding blocks, but D-line has been a power for the Giants, and James should do good things behind that group.

30. Tennessee Titans- Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech: Could they go receiver here? Yes, they could try once again to snag a competent starting receiver, but it’s a strong position with many players to be had – why would they pass on a chance at the second coming of Javon Kearse (during his freak days of course)? Michael Johnson has that freakish athleticism and size and the Titans can grab the kid and have him learn from some team greats. He won’t be needed on every down right away, and he has upside to burn. I think they skip taking the 5th 1st round receiver and go for upside on the D-line. I like to wait on receivers, so I’m expecting the Titans to pick without fantasy hopes on the line here. Hakeem Nicks might be the guy, but in a weighted coin flip I’m going with Johnson.

31. Arizona Cardinals- Alex Mack, C, California: LeSean McCoy is my favorite here because I love the running back’s vision and acceleration. However, I think adding a great young center, a guy that can play a couple positions and is basically a sure fire solid starter, seems like the right move. They have a young back they like in Tim Hightower, so getting him help up front might be a better move that tossing a first round pick at another back. Later in the draft is the time to add depth, not Round 1. Another option would be Hakeem Nicks if Boldin is traded. I think ‘Quan will sign a deal with the Cards, however, so that’s “a moo point, like a cow’s opinion, nobody cares”. So I’m skipping over my favorite back in the class for one of my favorite O-line leaders.

32. Pittsburgh Steelers- Max Unger, C/G, Oregon: The Steelers will have options. But if the draft unfolds like this, I don’t think they spend another high pick on a receiver, they let Hakeem Nicks fall dreamily into the lap of another suiter in Round 2. They take Max Unger because the Steelers could use O-line depth, and they are a smart franchise. Unger is a beast, he can play multiple positions, and he’s always been the leading force of great Oregon rushing attacks. Last pick in Round 1 should be a great one for the Steel-City.

Best Available After Round 1:

1. Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina

2. LeSean McCoy, RB, Pittsburgh

3. Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest

4. Donald Brown, RB, Connecticut

5. Ron Brace, DT, Boston College

6. Kenny Britt, WR, Rutgers

7. Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas State

8. Phil Loadholt, OT, Oklahoma

9. Louis Delmas, S, Western Michigan

10. Conner Barwin, DE, Cincinnati

11. Darius Butler, CB, Connecticut

12. Clint Sintim, OLB, Virginia

13. Larry English, OLB, Northern Illinois

14. Derrick Williams, WR, Penn State

15. Jamon Meredith, OT, South Carolina

16. Cornelius Ingram, TE, Florida

17. Shawn Nelson, TE, Southern Miss

18. Shonn Greene, RB, Iowa

19. Rashad Johnson, S, Alabama

20. Sean Smith, CB, Utah

21. Andy Levitre, OG, Oregon State

22. Chase Coffman, TE, Missouri

23. Gerald Cadogan, OT, Penn State

24. Patrick Chung, SS, Oregon

25. Mike Thomas, WR, Arizona

2009 NFL Mock Draft: #1

Updated on January 19, 2009

I’m dancing in the streets a little – it’s always nice to see something you never thought would happen, and until Ken Whisenhunt was tricked into coaching the Cardinals, I didn’t think I’d ever see that red jersey and helmet sporting that angry woodpecker in a Super Bowl game. But here we are, a Pittsburgh Steelers team that has won as many championships as any team ever, and an Arizona Cardinals team that looks for a ring for the first time. Awesome. But that pretty much locks up my first full mock draft. I’ll compile the draft as if the Cardinals pull off the huge upset, because, well, they’ve done it 3 times already and I’d be stunned if they did it again – so it will probably happen. The new mock draft is also coming out because the early entry list is locked in and the draft order is basically set. I’m done with my “If I’m making the picks” format because I can really do both predictions and analysis by suggesting what I think the Draft will look like- still, I agree with my ability to judge talent, and a couple teams definitely should call me up for some advice… Haha…  Here goes the goods…

1. Detroit Lions: Andre Smith, OT, Alabama – This pick is exactly what the Lions need, and that’s how I’m doing my first mock draft. This is a team that has gone kookoo over the skill positions and they have been brutal on offensive and defensive lines. I’m sold on the thought that Detroit will get a good football guy to make their personnel decisions and that will lead them away from 1st Round receivers, quarterbacks, or running backs. Andre Smith might not be the guy making the best decisions (getting hooked up with an agent a couple days before his team’s big bowl game) but he is a beast of a man that dominated at the college level. If the Lions want to properly use Calvin Johnson and Kevin Smith, arguably their best players, they’ll have to get some time to throw and room to run. Matthew Stafford (the consensus pick here) has all the tools, but without a better offensive line the Lions will continue to get destroyed. Do the right thing Detroit, go big here, Smith is your guy.

2. St. Louis Rams – Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia – The Rams have lots of problems, no doubt in my mind, they would happily take Smith if he were available here – but he’s not, and nobody wants to trade into the 2nd pick so it’s not like they’ll find a valuable trading partner for the pick. That being said, Matt Stafford is the guy with all the tools that Marc Bulger doesn’t have, end the Marc Bulger experiment…. please.  I personally like Mark Sanchez a little more than Stafford – but the tools Stafford has can’t be taught, and while the Rams need more than a QB in the waiting, the #2 pick is a place where immense talent needs to be selected.

3. Kansas City Chiefs:  Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forrest – I don’t think the Chiefs go quarterback here – it’s stupid, A, and B- Tyler Thigpen played great when he got a chance to do so. Just ride out this guy for a while and hope that you hit the lotto with the kid, weirder things have happened. Plus, with a 30th ranked rushing defense and a 28th ranked passing defense, they might consider getting some dynamic help on that side of the ball first. Still, with Bradford and Stafford on the board it’s tough for me to pass up a chance at a franchise QB, but I’m going to, because I’m smart. Thigpen is good enough right now, he’s got a little something that I like as the guy in charge of my roster, so I’m taking Aaron Curry to be a playmaker on my defense. This guy is one of the surest things in the draft, a football player through and through, and he bleeds intensity. The Chiefs have some speed in their linebacking corps, but they don’t have a guy like this and he’ll immediately come in and make everyone better. This may be a little high for a linebacker, and probably higher than Curry will go, but I’ll take him because I’m looking for the guy that will improve the Chiefs the most, and they need a guy like Aaron.

4. Seattle Seahawks: Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech  – The Hawks need offensive line help badly. I know Michael Crabtree is out there and every single Hawk fan in the world wants Seattle to go get the big stud receiver from Texas Tech – I love Crabtree, think he’ll be  a great one, but you can only win if you have a good offensive line. Monroe is the smart pick – or maybe Jason Smith, and both should be here for the Seahawks taking – but in the end I just can’t pass up on the chance to get an elite playmaker for the Hawks offense. People (like me) will say that Seattle never makes a pick like this, that they have a smart brass that knows how to pick right, that they wouldn’t go skill position at the top of the draft – but, in the end, history is just that – history. Right now is the now, and with that in mind, and the future in the eyes of the same guy that’s watching Crabtree work out, watching him torch defenses at will – watching him become a version of TO without the assish tendencies, I don’t think the Hawks can pass that up – not with the guys they have. Taking skill position guys at the top of the draft can be a recipe for losses to build. You spend too much money on a receiver and it will hurt you in the end if that player doesn’t become great. But I think the Hawks need to go for it.

5. Cleveland Browns:  Malcom Jenkins, CB, Ohio State – The Browns secondary and overall defense was brutal last season. Weird, they went and spent a bunch of money on high-priced free agents and they still got kicked around pretty good. A lot of that has to do with their offense going 3 and out a lot, and putting the defense in bad situations, but still – tackling and angles were tough to come by in Cleveland and I think Jenkins comes in and starts immediately for the Browns. He’s as sure as a corner back can be in helping the run. He’s got great understanding and recognition, things that plague the Browns secondary.

6. Cincinnati Bengals: Aaron Maybin, DE, Penn State – The Bengals need a lot of help in a lot of places, weird. But with Stacey Andrews struggling a bit and his knee giving him problem, and a visit with the doctor for re-constructive surgery in mid-January, it might be time to get a young stud to protect their biggest investment, Carson Palmer. Everyone watched what happened to the Bengals without Palmer – protecting him next season might be a good start. Eugene Monroe has proven he can start anywhere. He’s an athletic kid that held down left tackle for Virginia, and he could do the same in Cincinnati. Either way, I think Monroe would be a good pick this high, a need pick and a talent pick and a good use of their money – But lets just say (for the sake of good health and positive thinking) that the Bengals elect to re-sign Andrews (and they very well could because of his youth and possible good news on the diagnosis of his knee surgery) then they might elect to go for a pass rushing specialist like Everett Brown, Brian Orakpo, or Aaron Maybin – going for the health of the young right tackle, Aaron Maybin goes off the board here because his motor and upside are impressive.

7. Oakland Raiders: Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri – Rey Maualuga is a machine. The Raiders need a guy like him just about as bad as anything – well, aside from a new coaching staff and a new owner and a guy to bring in talent on draft day that doesn’t base everything on some lifting and speed numbers – so they need a lot of things, but a sure tackler at linebacker, and big time playmaker, a special and California taught local kid like Maualuga – I think they’d have something going if they went here. However, I know the Raiders – and Jeremy Maclin or Crabtree (if he lasts) might get pushed to Oakland. I have this eery feeling that if Maclin is on the board for Oakland that he’ll be wearing black and silver come next season. It’s sad for Jeremy – but it’s probably true.

8. Jacksonville Jaguars: Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia – While Michael Oher is a stud, he has shown a lack of focus at times. He’s been beat by lesser defensive ends, and while the talent is obviously there, Oher’s lack of consistency might hurt him in the draft. I have that happening here as Eugene Monroe will get ahead of Oher on draft boards and be the first off the board after Andre Smith. If Maclin is on the board here, the Jaguars might be tempted – they have shown a history of going and reaching for their biggest needs, and they definitely need a playmaker outside. But the Jaguars showed some offensive line (and defensive line for that matter) woes in 2008. Maurice Jones Drew is still phenomenal and David Garrard didn’t have as bad of a season as his numbers insisted, but this team needs some help on their respective lines. Monroe has the ability to get plugged in anywhere he’s needed, and he’ll immediately improve that position. That’s rare in the NFL these days, and even tougher to get in the draft. For a team that needs to reestablish their rushing identity, the Jags could make a great pick right here. Many people expect the Jaguars to go linebacker here, but there’s room to rummage through the next couple rounds to find a playmaker there. The top O-Tackles, while the position is deep, will be gone long before the Jags pick again.

9.  Green Bay Packers: Everett Brown, DE, Florida State – The Packers need to revamp their defensive front. I think Aaron Kampman is a stud, but he needs some help and I think Everett Brown can be a special contributor up front for the Packers. They need help getting to the quarterback and stopping the run. Basically they were a liability on defense. They have plenty of weapons on offense, and while every team could always use help on the line, this pick seems like a no brainer for the Pack – but it could be one of the many defensive end prospects in the draft. I also think that this spot, and this mock, would have the Packers being in a great position with someone who wanted to trade down to get Mark Sanchez – ie the Minnesota Vikings. No trades in my mock though, too tough to figure, so I’ll go with one of the more talent kids out there.

10. San Francisco 49ers:  Mark Sanchez, QB, USC – I like Shaun Hill, like I said in my first mock, but Sanchez is a stud – he has a lightning quick release, great leadership qualities, and a passion for the game that fits perfectly with Mike Singletary’s system. Could the 49ers go in about a million different directions? You bet… Could one of those directions be not re-signing Takeo Spikes and maybe going with Rey Maualuga to form one of the best middle linebacker duos in all of football? Possibly, Rey seems like a Mike kind of guy, but he also seems a lot like Patrick Willis (but could it be bad to have two of him?). Shaun Hill is a solid guy right now, he does enough to keep San Francisco in the game, but Sanchez has tools to be a top pick, and very well could be, but right now I like him going to SF at 10 because that’s a great place to get your future signal caller and not have to play him right off the bat. If Sanchez isn’t their guy, and they love Orakpo, Michael Johnson of Georgia Tech, Maybin or Brown if they are there, don’t be surprised if the Niners snag a pass rusher.

11. Buffalo Bills: Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas – The Bills need more help on the defensive line. They started off the year okay, but they don’t make enough plays and they don’t have any one player that poses an elite pass rushing skill set. Okay, Aaron Schobel is a guy that has some good career numbers, but he spent much of 2008 hurt and is on the wrong side of 30 and the small side of 250lbs. I really like Micheal Johnson of Georgia Tech, but Orakpo is probably the more complete of the two, and the Bills could use that.

12. Denver Broncos: B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College – The Broncos have been brutal at stopping the run for sometime, and it’s very likely that Mike Shannahan’s insistence on grabbing opposing teams leftovers instead of drafting some help up front is what got him fired in the first place. I expect new HC Josh McDaniels to do his damnedest to strengthen the defensive front, and starting with a massive defensive lineman that will free up linebackers while putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks is probably a good start. McDaniels is and offensive mind, no doubt about that, but he’s also a smart guy and while assessing team needs he’ll vouch for the teams offensive firepower and express some worry about that line…  Raji’s 6.5 sacks and numerous runs stuffed will certainly help Denver’s front – character issues might hurt Raji’s stock, but in Denver’s move to the 3-4 they’ll need a player of Raji’s strength to hold down the middle.

13. Washington Redskins: Jason Smith, OT, Baylor – The Redskins will be lucky if they get an offensive line prospect like Jason Smith. The kid knows how to play the game and he really does it right. I think he’s a better pass blocker than Andre Smith, and his athleticism is second to none. At 6’5 305lbs, he’s got room to grow into his body a little bit. He’s not super strong, but that will come – his feet are great and his energy and ability to stay on blocks long are two things that he has over any other elite tackle prospect in the draft. A steal at 13.

14. New Orleans Saints: Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois – Defense, defense, defense. As much as Jeremy Maclin’s speed has to excite this offensive minded freak of a coach in New Orleans, it’s not offensive deficiencies that keep the Saints from getting into the playoffs. Defensively they are brutal, they don’t have much of an identity except that of a team that allows opposing offenses to do anything they damn well please. That’s not a good thing. Right now, the Saints don’t have corners that get the job done. They don’t tackle all that well, and find themselves in positions to make tackles far too often. As far as talent and confidence go, Davis is a corner that comes second to none. He’s a physical kid that likes to get into opposing receivers. He hasn’t had a ton of interceptions at the college level, but I’m going to go ahead and say that’s because opposing offenses don’t throw his way. He may have been too aggressive in college, being allowed to do too much on the field. He’ll get the little things down, but I like what he does have and think he would start immediately for New Orleans.

15. Houston Texans: Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech – How can you play an entire season on the other side of Mario Williams and have absolutely zero sacks to show for it? Weaver is a better run defensive end than a pass rusher, but 0 sacks? Yikes. Johnson might be a little bit of a reach here – but the kid is a freakish pass rusher that could start out helping right away as a pass rush specialist and he has the body to add weight and become a full time guy over time.  The Texans could really use a pass rush option opposite their big dog. With much attention played to their former 1st overall pick, Johnson could find a lot of room to be the playmaker that he is. This would do wonders for the other half of Houston’s defensive line.

16. San Diego Chargers: Chris “Beanie” Wells, RB, Ohio State – If the Chargers are indeed getting rid of LaDainian Tomlinson, for age and contract reasons, I think Wells would be a perfect fit to get half of the carries in a time share with Darren Sproles. I, personally, would just keep Tomlinson for another year, go for some offensive line or defensive help here, and grab a running back in next season’s draft or in the later rounds, but I’m taking the plunge here because of Wells ability. Basically, I don’t like taking skill guys early, but Wells has special size, explosion, and speed – and while Sproles has shown a knack for the big play, there is no way he holds up through a season getting 15-20 carries per game. I make exceptions for special players, and while Wells’ injury problems might scare some teams off, I happen to believe that you go for the talent and if freak injuries happen you just got unlucky. If LT is re-signed, I think the Chargers should make a play on

17. New York Jets: Rey Maualuga, LB, USC- To get a guy that can make a difference like Maualuga is always a draft day blessing. To get him in the middle of the 1st round is even more impressive. Can he be Rex Ryan’s New York Jet version of Ray Lewis? It’s possible. I’m not sure anyone this side of William Wallace has ever had as much passion, toughness, and straight super-hero ability like Ray Lewis, but if there’s a guy in this draft that looks anything like Ray, it’s Rey – and not just for names sake. The Jets need to get better defensively – but they could also make a play on a young running back if their top choice sits here. I think Thomas Jones and Leon Washington are good for now, and I think Ryan will be ready to get a defensive stopper right off the bat.

18. Chicago Bears: Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi – Nate Davis? Oh, I think this kid could surprise. But I’m not ready to make that jump quite yet – plus, the Bears “are happy with their quarterback situation” – right. The Bears look to be aging a little bit, and that means they could use all types of players. But if the super-talented Oher is still on the board at 18, the Bears snag him up without thinking twice.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers:  Sen’Derrick Marks, DT, Auburn – Marks is a freak. He’s a superior athlete in the body of a defensive tackle. He’s not enormous, but his tenacity and elite quickness and coordination make him a great prospect and could very well allow him to be great at rushing the passer and making plays against the run. If the Bucs have shown me anything during their late slide that saw them go from 9-3 to 9-7 and missing the playoffs, it’s that they need help on the defensive line. Marks might be the best of the bunch and at 19th overall, he’s worth that risk.

20. Detroit Lions (via Dallas Cowboys):  James Laurinaitis, LB, Ohio State – The Lions need guys like this to do things like win a football game. James is a sure thing. You know what you’re getting, a great tackler, great team guy with the ability to stop the run, read blocks, get his teammates behind him and make everyone better. A great offensive lineman and a great linebacker to be a team leader on defense, that would be a great draft for a team that doesn’t know much about great drafts. The Lions need to stop taking chances and picking skill position players – teams are built on  guys that can block up front and get off blocks and tackle on defense – Andre and James are a good start.

21. Philadelphia Eagles: Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia – Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia – Brian Westbrook #2? After seeing what Brian Westbrook has become since the Eagles drafted the undersized back in the 3rd round years ago, I wouldn’t be stunned if they tried to get him. I know they aren’t a team that usually guns for the skill positions early, but Moreno is special and despite being a little undersized, could be a great option in making the transition to the days without Mr. Westbrook. The Eagles have seen Westy have injury troubles, day to day issues just about every other week, and his age is becoming a little bit of an issue. The Eagles have a bevy of vets, and they surely need to get younger on the offensive line and all over on defense, but this kid is an elite playmaker that you aren’t able to snag in Round 2.

22. Minnesota Vikings: Sean Smith, CB, Utah – Sean Smith played a little under the radar at Utah, but he was a great part of one of the best defenses in college football. He helped shut down the Alabama passing attack, and played good football against the run as well. Smith is an elite player from a small school. The Vikings would help improve their semi-shaky pass defense by adding the Utes ball hawk. Smith has unreal size for a corner, and has shown a knack for making big plays by either intercepting 5 passes or leading his team in passes broken up. Smith could shoot up draft boards after the combine.

23. New England Patriots: Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest – The Patriots find themselves in an interesting place here, and free agency will definitely help decide where they go here. I know Smith is a great playmaker with lots of upside and the personality it takes to be good at the next level. I’m not sure if he fits perfectly into the Patriots system, but he definitely fits a need as almost every corner in New England will see free agency over the off-season. Smith does lots of good things, he’s got solid speed and breaks well on the ball.

24. Atlanta Falcons: Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State – The Falcons might not need Brandon Pettigrew to make life easier on Matt Ryan, but they could sure use him. He’s a good blocker and an even better pass catcher, but the bottom line is he does it all. He may not be a big play guy like Kellen Winslow or Jason Witten, but he’s a great blocker, probably the best blocking tight end in the class. He also has great hands and very good ball skills. He does it all. This guy is just the type of guy Atlanta (or any team in the league) needs.

25. Miami Dolphins: D.J. Moore, CB, Vanderbilt – The Dolphins need help in the secondary, and maybe all over their defense to be honest. They played better than they were early in the year in ’08, but fell apart a little toward the end and, in my opinion, better exemplified exactly what their biggest problems are. In an offensive heavy draft class, the Dolphins need to build defensively. Moore is a very talented player that shut down #1 receivers all season for Vanderbilt. He’s an opportunistic player with a playmaking ability that could help the Dolphins create turnovers defensively.

26. Baltimore Ravens: Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland – While many people would like to point to Bey as being inconsistent and an underachiever in college, I would like to point to the poor quarterbacking in Maryland this last season. Bey is super talented and could definitely turn into a great pro. I like him more than most. I think he’d fit in in Baltimore, and be a big target that the Ravens need to pit with Mark Clayton and the aging Derrick Mason.

27. Philadelphia Eagles (via Carolina): Ebbin Britton, OT, Arizona – The Eagles need to get younger at lots of different places. Arizona’s offense was underrated this season, being stuck in the Pac-10, where even I admit was underrated. Britton has been road-grading paths for running backs over the last two seasons, and the Wildcats have been better than you’d think in that area. Britton is a big boy with some good quickness and a very football savvy demeanor. I think the Eagels would be bright to grab him before they really need an offensive tackle. Prep him for next season when age finally catches up with the green machine.

28. Indianapolis Colts: Peria Jerry, DT, Mississippi – The Colts really struggled to stop the run, with or without Bob Sanders, and if you can’t stop the run with that heat seeking missile aimed right at the hearts of running backs, then you have to do something a little different. Peria Jerry is a very good defensive tackle that plays with the intensity and knowhow needed to excel in the Colts system. They need to start filling holes if they want to return to the Super Bowl.

29. New York Giants: Percy Harvin, WR/RB, Florida – The Giants need more playmakers. Percy Harvin might be the shiniest playmaker in this draft of offensive firepower. Getting him at 29 would be great. The Giants need them some Percy Harvin just like Flordia does.

30. Tennessee Titans: Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina – He doesn’t have as much upside as Darrius Heyward-Bey, but Nicks might be the better receiver in the NFL. Nicks runs solid routes, his hands or enforced with a special unique stick-em produced only by his body. That catch that everyone saw during the bowl season, that was amazing, but no way was that his only amazing catch. This kid is always open, and I think his game translates well to the next level. He would also make the 5th receiver selected in the first round, which seems like an unreal ammount – but with the lack of underclassmen coming out, and the overall mediocre feeling of this talent pool, matched with the heavy set of receivers and apt running backs, this could be a weird first round with receivers off early.

31. Pittsburgh Steelers: Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU – Beast. He may not be the “new” defensive end with the pass rushing forte and the speed and the basketball body, but Tyson is a run-stuffing fiend. A kid that is nearly 6’5″ and 300+ – he’s a beast. The Steelers could use a guy like that inside in their 3-4. They have pass rushers galore, and Tyson has above average talent for his size – that’s digable planet business right there.

32. Arizona Cardinals: Brian Cushing, LB, USC – This kid didn’t have great numbers on an impressive USC defense, but he is damn good at just about everything. He can turn in run in coverage, as he was often asked to do, and he can make big plays all over the field. He’s had some durability issues, but the Cardinals would make a good move grabbing a kid with Cushing’s upside – winning the Super Bowl gives you a chance to go with upside like Brian’s.

Final 2008 NFL Mock Draft – Round 1

The FINAL Straw

It’s draft time, and all this mockery is about to be done with. However, with the draft less than a week away, I figured I might as well snap off my last mock draft. This is how I think it will go down, except for trades. I’m mocking around as if no trades happen. This is how it looks.

1. Miami Dolphins (1-15) – Jake Long, OT, Michigan

The Dolphins already signed Long, so chances are, he makes it official-official on Saturday. I hope the Dolphins don’t take the full 10 minutes – that’d really chap my balls.

2. St. Louis Rams (3-13) – Chris Long, DE, Virginia

It’s between Chris Long and Glenn Dorsey, and I think the talent level is so close that they’ll go for the defensive end with fewer question marks. It doesn’t always pay to be safe, but I think it does in this case.

3. Atlanta Falcons (4-12) – Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU

Absolute stud that could very well be considered the best player in this draft. Yes, that’s right McFadden fans. From the defensive side of the ball, Dorsey is as dominant as any player in the draft.

4. Oakland Raiders (4-12) – Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas

The Raiders signed Fargas to a nice sized contract and have Rhodes and 2nd year player Michael Bush. However, none of those guys has D-Mac upside, and if there’s ever been a perfect Al Davis player, this guy is it. He’ll instantly make the franchise more money – which is important, because, you know, this is a business.

5. Kansas City Chiefs (4-12) – Vernon Gholston, DE, OSU

With Jared Allen gone, Gholston is a nice pick up. He doesn’t have the complete package that Allen had, but he’s the best defensive end prospect left, and I think he’s got as much upside as anyone in this draft. His numbers are grand and he’s had very explosive games against big-time competition.

6. New York Jets (4-12) – Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC

Remember, the Jets are about to trade their starting defensive tackle to the Denver Broncos. With Gholston, Long, and McFadden all gone, this pick seems perfect, plus, Ellis is a stud so the value is good.

7. New England Patriots (16-0) – Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State

I don’t see the Patriots picking here. Somehow, they’ll finagle their way down the draft board, maybe even out of the 1st round altogether. However, if they stay, and I don’t mock trades so they’ll stay in my draft, Ryan Clady has great upside and decent value. He’s the best OT in the draft, in my opinion.

8. Baltimore Ravens (5-11) – Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College

Something tells me Kyle Boller isn’t the guy the Ravens hoped he’d be. Troy Smith didn’t get a chance late last season, so he mustn’t be more than a backup in their minds. Enter the highest rated QB prospect in the draft. Matt could be the savior this team always hoped for.

9. Cincinnati Bengals (7-9) – Keith Rivers, LB, USC

Rivers is legit. His ability to make plays all over the field and use his brain to do the right thing (on and off the field) makes him a great choice for this flailing franchise. Oh, and trade Ocho Dinko.

10. New Orleans Saints (7-9) – Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy

The Saints could use McKelvin as a starting corner right off the bat, because their secondary sucks. Leodis can do many things, and his coverage skills will immediately help a porous Saints defense.

11. Buffalo Bills (7-9) Dominique Rodgers – Cromartie, Tennessee State

The Bills get the most gifted corner in the draft. He may not be polished, and he may give up a few big plays, but it’d be hard to argue anyone’s upside over this small school corner. Everyone knows he has the bloodlines, and the Bills need secondary help.

12. Denver Broncos (7-9) – Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois

The Broncos never pick running backs high, and they need help in more than a couple places, but I happen to think the world of Mendenhall. I thought the same about Maroney, and Splinter said he would have taken Laurence if Cutler was gone. So, this year he takes Rashard.

13. Carolina Panthers (7-9) – Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh

The Panthers are said to love them some enormously powerful and talented left tackle from Pittsburgh. For a team that struggles to protect their quarterback and rarely does any damage on the ground, I can see why Otah would grab their attention.

14. Chicago Bears (7-9) – Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt

The Bears need help on the offensive line desperately, because if they aren’t a threat to run the ball, they are dead in the water. I love Jonathan Stewart but the smart pick would be to lock down a top-tier offensive lineman like Williams. Then anyone can run.

15. Detroit Lions (7-9) – Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida

Mike Jenkins would be a great fit in Detroit. I think he’s the most polished corner in the draft. He does things right. Watching film of him has him moving up my draft board, and I’m sure I’m not the only one.

16. Arizona Cardinals (8-8) – Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida

The Cardinals could use a freak of nature type pass rusher on the outside. Right now, offenses are allowed too much time, putting pressure on their defense. I know DE isn’t the biggest team need, but a guy like Harvey here seems like a great deal.

17. Kansas City Chiefs (via MN) (4-12) – Branden Albert, G, Virginia

The Chiefs got two great cornerstones for their offense. They’d be lucky to get Branden this late, as his stock is flying right now. However, the way things went, two tackles were chosen before him, and he makes his way to Kansas City.

18. Houston Texans (8-8) – Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas

Talib is a great physical corner with ball skills and illusiveness in the return game. He’s a game breaker, something the Texans really need on a blossoming defense.

19. Philadelphia Eagles (9-7) – Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson

There’s a reason the Eagles have tried to pick up every high-profile receiver with a “contract problem” that has requested a trade. It’s because they’ve been through all these receiver prospects and don’t like one enough to take here. So, they go for a defensive end that could help right away against the run and pass.

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7) – DeSean Jackson, WR, Cal

I still like Jackson to go here. You either love him or hate him, and who knows what Chucky is thinking, but I’m willing to believe that a team with Joey Galloway still making big plays in his 30s has to think highly of a guy like Jackson.

21. Washington Redskins (9-7) – Devin Thomas, WR, Mich St.

The Redskins have always needed size and athleticism at the wide receiver slot, and Thomas gives them a great opportunity to pick that up in Round 1. He’s no Chad Johnson, but he’s available, and he only costs one pick.

22. Dallas Cowboys (13-3) (via Cle.) – Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas

Jones may be a bit small but he’s explosive. He’s basically a guy that would give the Cowboys everything they don’t think Marion Barber gives them. He sees the field really well, and there’s not too much wear on those tires.

23. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6) – Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon

I know there’s not a big need here, but Stewart is a superb talent with the size to punish opponents. Pittsburgh has always been a “best player available” type team, and I think Stewart is that.

24. Tennessee Titans (10-6) – Limas Sweed, WR, Texas

I like Malcom Kelly more, but apparently Sweed is higher on most draft boards. His numbers are better, and his body of work is at least as good. I just think Kelly has more upside. The Titans won’t and they’ll make Vince more comfy with his favorite receiver.

25. Seattle Seahawks (10-6) – Kentwan Balmer, DT, NC

Balmer is a very good defensive tackle that received a lot of attention from offensive opponents. He can rush the passer and stop the run. The Hawks always seem to be looking for defensive line help, and a guy from an unheralded team seems to be a great fit here. From about here on out, I wouldn’t be surprised to see one of the quarterback-needy teams make a trade to acquire the 2nd tier signal callers. However, without a trade, Ryan will be the only QB chosen in Round 1.

26. Jacksonville Jaguars (11-5) – Lawrence Jackson, DE, USC

I like Jackson more than the rest of the defensive ends on the board, and think he can really help a Jaguars team that struggles with pressuring opponents. A wild card here could be Jarod Mayo.

27. San Diego Chargers (11-5) – Chilio Rachal, OG, USC

Without the real need to reach for anyone, or take a value pick here, the Chargers could be an ideal trade partner. However, if they do stay here, why not take an offensive lineman with humungous upside. USC’s Chilio Rachal is definitely that.

28. Dallas Cowboys (13-3) – Gosder Cherilus, OT, BC

It would be smart for the Cowboys to pass up the opportunity to draft a receiver, because there are too many question marks there. Another very good offensive lineman, like Gosder would be a great choice and could really help them moving forward. WR in Round 2.

29. San Francisco 49ers (5-11) (via Colts) – Quentin Groves, DE, Auburn

Groves not only fits a need for the pressure hungry 49ers defense, but he is a good value pick with nice upside. He had a down year, sure, but his ability has never been questioned, and he could be a nice piece for a young Niners defense.

30. Green Bay Packers (13-3) – Dustin Keller, TE, Purdue

People talk about Keller like he’s some workout warrior that just jumped on the scene with some nice combine times. Quit it, folks. Keller did work at Purdue, and was definitely their most feared receiving threat. He’ll be another tool for the Packers passing game.

31. New York Giants (10-6) – Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona

From what people have been saying, Cason may slip into the first round. I believe he is a first round talent, and the Giants could always use more help against the pass. Cason played on a bad team, but he’s a very good player that can do it all.

Papa Weimer 2008 NFL Mock Draft – Final

That’s right, I’m not even going to wait until free-agency is over. The biggest additions have been made, and unless Barry Bonds signs to play running back for the Raiders or Roger Clemens misremembers his story and reports to Texans’ camp, team needs will be about the same. I will not lead you to temptation, but deliver you to the best mock draft this side of Bill Parcells’ own draft board. I’m old, I’m on the very of insanity, but my football knowledge is here for you to mock… yeah! Draft… Yeah!

  1. Miami Dolphins (1-15)
    Needs: MLB, OT, G, DT, CB, QB, LB
    Chris Long, DE, Virginia

    I think the Dolphins pass on Matt Ryan, because when all is said and done, they will see that he’s not that far ahead of Brohm and Flacco. Chris Long is a sure thing, hard worker, and a perfect fit for a Bill Parcells team.

  2. St. Louis Rams (3-13)
    Needs: CB, DE, G, OT, OLB

    Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
    This biggest impact player not named Darren McFadden, Dorsey will finally give the Rams a force up the middle on their defense. Heck, they might even stop the run every once in a while, too.

  3. Atlanta Falcons (4-12)
    Needs: QB, OT, DT, RB, S

    Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
    The Falcons signed Michael Turner, so there is no way they go with McFadden here. Matt Ryan is almost assured to get picked #1 or #3, with me having him go 3rd to Atlanta. He’ll be a good start in the right direction for this struggling franchise.

  4. Oakland Raiders (4-12)
    Needs: OT, DT, WR, DE, RB

    Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio State
    This is considered early for Gholston, but if he’s not an Al Davis guy, I don’t know who is. His huge strength and speed index should make him speed rushing fixture opposite Derrick Burgess.

  5. Kansas City Chiefs (4-12)
    Needs: OT, DE, C, WR, CB
    Jake Long, OT, Michigan

    The Chiefs will take Jake Long, if he’s there. Despite the trixy language by Chiefs brass, they don’t have the medicine balls to take another running back after shelling out all that dough for LJ, last season. McFadden slips yet another spot.

  6. New York Jets (4-12)
    Needs: WR, NT, ILB, G, OLB
    Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas

    The winner of the biggest change in team income goes to the Jets. New York will sell infinite McFadden jerseys after the draft, and all the hype after free agency spending and D-Mac’s signing will continue to roll in the publicity in New York.

  7. New England Patriots (16-0) via San Francisco
    Needs: LB, CB/S depth,
    Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC

    I would like to see the Patriots select a corner here, but I doubt that they’re willing to pay a guy like Jenkins or McKelvin all that scratch when they just let an All-Pro, proven cornerback go for the same amount of money. Top 10 picks get paid, and they might as well get a stud defensive lineman. That makes Ellis the only pick I see working. A trade down is a huge possibility.

  8. Baltimore Ravens (5-11)
    Needs: CB, QB, OLB, DE, OT
    Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy

    The Ravens need help in their secondary whether they want to believe it or not. They give up a ton of long passes, and they’ll need their defense to be better in that aspect if they want to return to their winning ways. I like McKelvin the most, but Talib and Jenkins rate out very close in my books.

  9. Cincinnati Bengals (7-9)
    Needs: DT, LB, OT, DE, TE, discipline
    Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina

    I personally don’t know how the Bengals will pass up on Rashard Mendehall or Jonathan Stewart, two guys who run and catch very well… But they will, and when they do, a defensive playmaker is probably the best choice anyway. Balmer’s going to be a stud.

  10. New Orleans Saints (7-9)
    Needs: CB, DT, MLB, TE, OLB
    Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas

    The Saints still need help in the secondary. Vilma and Morgan will sure up the linebacker crew if they can get anywhere close to healthy. Gay is a solid corner, but he’s not a shut down guy. If a guy like Ellis is here, sure, they’ll take him, but if not, don’t be surprised if they go for the best corner. Talib’s size and ball skills should get him picked up.

  11. Buffalo Bills (7-9)
    Needs: CB, TE, WR, LB, DT
    Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee State

    Now this is a perfect example of a guy that used the combine to vault himself from a late first/early second round pick to possibly the top half of Round 1. That’s good, hard work. Buffalo addressed their defensive line, and now a good cover corner could go a long way in solidifying that defense.

  12. Denver Broncos (7-9)
    Needs: OT, DT, S, MLB, G, WR
    Ryan Clady, DE, Boise State

    I really love Clady’s game. The Broncos could use help on the offensive line, and Clady would protect Cutler for years. There are lots of receivers the Broncos could pick-up to take Walker’s spot, and while they aren’t the most predictable group, I think Clady’s elite athleticism and upside make him perfect for Denver.

  13. Carolina Panthers (7-9)
    Needs: QB, WR, DE, OLB, OT
    Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson

    I really like Merling, and think he is as talented and complete as any defensive end in the draft. If the Panthers want an eventual replacement for Rucker, or just a guy who could take some pressure off Peppers now, this is the right guy. He does everything well.

  14. Chicago Bears (7-9)
    Needs: QB, OT, DT, G, RB
    Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois (Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville)

    Adrian Peterson and Cedric Benson are not the answer at running back in Chicago, and while they definitely need some help at receiver, unless their in love with one, they’ll wait until the second, or trade up into the latter half of the 1st. Mendenhall is a local kid, and he’s as good as any back in this draft. Right away, he gives the Bears a feared rusher. They ought to like that enough to take him here.

  15. Detroit Lions (7-9)
    Needs: OT, G, CB, S, DE
    Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon

    The Lions resigned Tatum Bell, but I have to be honest, all that does is add a warm body to an untested group. With Duckett now Seattle’s problem, and Kevin Jones’ fragile frame released, the Lions won’t pass on the opportunity to draft Mendenhall or Stewart, unless they see future star in a guy like Kevin Smith or Matt Forte. All are powerful and fast, and will be good for a system that wants to run the ball more. Stewart and Mendenhall are studs. This would be a great pick, so the Lions probably won’t do it, but I can’t pass it up.

  16. Arizona Cardinals (8-8)
    Needs: OLB, CB, TE, RB, DE
    Keith Rivers, LB, USC

    They need a linebacker, (because they lost their youngster, Blackstock, and they just aren’t good at the position). This guy is the best in the draft, what more can I say? Yhatzee!

  17. Minnesota Vikings (8-8)
    Needs: DE, S, QB, TE
    Calais Campbell, DE, Miami

    Campbell is a big cat, and he can do everything for the Vikings. He’s good against the run, and while he’s not an elite speed rusher like Gholston, or even as refined as Merling, he is a good end prospect with play now ability. If it’s pass rushing the Vikes want, Derrick Harvey could be their guy.

  18. Houston Texans (8-8)
    Needs: CB, G, WR, S, OT
    Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida

    I don’t see the Texans getting their hands on either Medenhall or Stewart as many mock drafts have predicted. Those two runners are too versatile, powerful, and fast to get by a couple teams that are really looking to improve that position and build for the future. Mike Jenkins, possibly the best corner in the bunch, is still on my board, and the Texans could use help at corner, especially as they sit in the Colts division.

  19. Philadelphia Eagles (9-7)
    Needs: OT, S, WR, LB, TE
    Malcom Kelly, WR, Oklahoma

    Unable to pry an elite receiver away from the Cardinals, Patriots, or Bengals, the Eagles might just take a chance on Mr. Kelly of Oklahoma. He’s got he size and speed to be a great player, but I’m not so sure they waste a 1st round pick on receiver with all the depth there is. Still, if they like one more than the others, and they get their pick here, they might just splurge and hope for the best.

  20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7)
    Needs: OT, WR OLB, CB, QB
    DeSean Jackson, WR, California

    What more can I say, except Jackson is definitely this drafts Joey Galloway. While the Bucs know how fragile a smallish speedy receiver can be, they also know how dynamic they can turn out. Galloway is old and still a big homerun threat, looking to the future, maybe Jackson is their man.

  21. Washington Redskins (9-7)
    Needs: WR, DE, S, OT, CB
    Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida

    The Redskins need explosive players on defense if they want to take the next step. I know that many believe they’ll go receiver here, but there are so many available that passing on a super-athlete like Derrick Harvey seems ridiculous. The Redskins’ brass seems to finally be figuring it out, so I say they take Harvey.

  22. Dallas Cowboys (13-3) (from 10-6 Cleveland)
    Needs: CB, WR, OT, ILB, RB
    Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt

    The Cowboys might want Felix Jones here, but they make the smarter move by taking Chris Williams, a big dominant offensive tackle from Vanderbilt. Williams’ stock is moving up, and they’re lucky to get him this late.

  23. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6)
    Needs: OT, C, DE, G, RB, CB
    Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh

    Tackles back to back: Jeff Otah is a big force of freakish nature, as his size and power will certainly help Willie Parker get into the end-zone more than once next season. Otah didn’t test out like a hero at the combine, but teams know what he can do; he’ll be a 1st round pick for sure.

  24. Tennessee Titans (10-6)
    Needs: WR, CB, TE, WR, OL
    Limas Sweed, WR, Texas

    It usually doesn’t work like this, but Sweed could be a great fit for the Titans as well as his former college quarterback. Sweed showed enough speed to show pro scouts that he wasn’t Mike Williams incarnate, and he could give Young a comfortable boost out wide.

  25. Seattle Seahawks (10-6)
    Needs: OT, DT, RB, TE, G
    Dustin Keller, TE, Purdue

    The Seahawks are currently hoping that Jonathan Stewart’s toe dilemma and surgery cause him to drop to them at 25. I doubt it, but think he’d be a great addition for them. Right now, he’s gone, so the Hawks do what they do best and take a tight end, the speedy and productive Dustin Keller. If they fall in love with a wideout, they may go that direction.

  26. Jacksonville Jaguars (11-5)
    Needs: DE, SS, CB
    Jerod Mayo, LB, Tennessee

    Mike Peterson is a solid linebacker, but he’s getting up there in age (31) and his games played record over the last few years isn’t impressive (5 in ’06; 10 in ’07). Mayo is a smart player with very good tackling ability and he has the instincts to man the middle for years in Jacksonville.

  27. San Diego Chargers (11-5)
    Needs: G, OT, NT, FB, RB
    Chilio Rachal, OG, USC

    The Chargers have done nothing in free agency, aside from resigning Billy Volek. They have lost a lot. Chilio is one of the very best guards in the draft, and he could really help get the Chargers running game going again this year.

  28. Dallas Cowboys (13-3)
    Needs: CB, WR, OT, ILB, RB
    Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas

    Some see the Cowboys going for Chris Johnson here, the speedster out of East Carolina, but I don’t buy it. Sure, he’s a very fast and explosive player, but against strong big conference defenses, Felix averaged over 8 yards a carry, and he was a force. He might not time out like Superman, but on the field, his explosiveness is evident. Jones would be a great compliment for Barber.

  29. San Francisco 49ers (5-11) (via 13-3 Colts)
    Needs: WR, OT, OLB
    Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College

    With Bryant Johnson signing, and Bruce all ready to go for his former coach, I don’t think the 49ers will use their 1st rounder on yet another receiver. Bryant only has a 1 year deal, and Bruce is old as dirt, but they have more needs to address here. A sleeper pick could be Brian Brohm, but I think they’ll go more useful, and that brings me to Gosder Cherilus. This kid is versitle, and he could fill in and help on the line right away. Lord knows the quarterbacks in Mike Martz’ offense will need it.

  30. Green Bay Packers (13-3)
    Needs: OT, S, CB, TE
    Fred Davis, TE, USC
    Davis might not have the highest stock right now, but his body of work is very impressive. He was the leading receiver for the Trojans, from the TE spot, and everyone knows that a big athletic pass catching receiver is a young quarterback’s best friend. Mr. Rogers could use Davis immediately.
  31. New York Giants (10-6)
    Needs: OLB, CB, S, OT, DT
    Kenny Phillips, S, Miami
    Can the Giants luck out again? They lost Gibril Wilson, but they signed Sammy Knight. They don’t care, if a stud safety prospect like Phillips slips all the way to them sitting with the last pick of round 1, you can bet your bills that they’ll take him. Phillips can do a lot, and has many upside, very, very many upside.

You think you know better?
Send your emails to papaweimer50@hotmail.com

2008 NFL Mock Draft – Round 1 – UPDATED

Alright, no mocking around! All I have here is what I expect will happen on one of the best weekends in sports. I actually do expect a trade or two that could wow your wits, but since trades into the top 10 rarely happen, and are almost impossible to predict, I just went on ahead with a mock draft that goes as planned, trades be damned. This is my 2nd episode, and I do hope you enjoy. I hate that this draft looks a lot like others, but the first few picks just seem too reasonable right now.

  1. Miami Dolphins (1-15)
    Needs: MLB, OT, G, DT, CB, QB, LB
  2. St. Louis Rams (3-13)
    Needs: CB, DE, G, OT, OLB
  3. Atlanta Falcons (4-12)
    Needs: QB, OT, DT, RB, S
  4. Oakland Raiders (4-12)
    Needs: OT, DT, WR, DE, RB
  5. Kansas City Chiefs (4-12)
    Needs: OT, DE, C, WR, CB
  6. New York Jets (4-12)
    Needs: WR, NT, ILB, G, OLB
  7. New England Patriots (16-0) via San Francisco
    Needs: LB, CB/S depth,
  8. Baltimore Ravens (5-11)
    Needs: CB, QB, OLB, DE, OT
  9. Cincinnati Bengals (7-9)
    Needs: DT, LB, OT, DE, TE, discipline
  10. New Orleans Saints (7-9)
    Needs: CB, DT, MLB, TE, OLB
  11. Buffalo Bills (7-9)
    Needs: CB, TE, WR, LB, DT
  12. Denver Broncos (7-9)
    Needs: OT, DT, S, MLB, G
  13. Carolina Panthers (7-9)
    Needs: QB, WR, DE, OLB, OT
  14. Chicago Bears (7-9)
    Needs: QB, OT, DT, G, RB
  15. Detroit Lions (7-9)
    Needs: OT, G, CB, S, DE
  16. Arizona Cardinals (8-8)
    Needs: OLB, CB, TE, RB, DE
  17. Minnesota Vikings (8-8)
    Needs: DE, WR, S, QB, TE
  18. Houston Texans (8-8)
    Needs: CB, G, WR, S, OT
  19. Philadelphia Eagles (9-7)
    Needs: OT, S, WR, LB, TE
  20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7)
    Needs: OT, WR OLB, CB, QB
  21. Washington Redskins (9-7)
    Needs: WR, DE, S, OT, CB
  22. Dallas Cowboys (13-3) (from 10-6 Cleveland)
    Needs: CB, WR, OT, ILB, RB
  23. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6)
    Needs: OT, C, DE, G, RB, CB
  24. Tennessee Titans (10-6)
    Needs: WR, CB, TE, WR, OL
  25. Seattle Seahawks (10-6)
    Needs: OT, DT, RB, TE, G
  26. Jacksonville Jaguars (11-5)
    Needs: WR, DE, SS, CB
  27. San Diego Chargers (11-5)
    Needs: G, OT, NT, FB, RB
  28. Dallas Cowboys (13-3)
    Needs: CB, WR, OT, ILB, RB
  29. San Francisco 49ers (5-11) (via 13-3 Colts)
    Needs: WR, OT, OLB, DE, QB
  30. Green Bay Packers (13-3)
    Needs: OT, S, CB, TE
  31. New York Giants (10-6)
    Needs: OLB, CB, S, OT, DT

You think you know better?

Send your emails to lester@luckylester.com

Updated 2008 NFL Mock Draft – Round 1 WriteUps

Full Mock Draft review write ups below:

Alright, no mocking around! All I have here is what I expect will happen on one of the best weekends in sports. I actually do expect a trade or two that could wow your wits, but since trades into the top 10 rarely happen, and are almost impossible to predict, I just went on ahead with a mock draft hat goes as planned, trades be damned. This is my 2nd episode, and I do hope you enjoy. I hate that this draft looks a lot like others, but the first few picks just seem too reasonable right now. This is my last Mock p re-free agency.

  1. Miami Dolphins (1-15)
    Needs: MLB, OT, G, DT, CB, QB, LB
    Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College

    I’m sure that the Dolphins wish they could trade out of this pick and get fair compensation in return. From the looks of it, that just doesn’t seem like a possibility. There was a rumor that the Dolphins would be taking picks and players from the Cowboys for the chance for Jerry Jones and his Cowboys to select Darren McFadden, but with the running back’s stock slipping a bit, Dallas would be better off waiting and making that move, if indeed that rumor has any validity. I imagine it doesn’t. Anyhow, the Dolphins were easily the worst team in the league last season, and that leaves them with the number one overall selection that they’ll have to deal with. If I were the Dolphins, I would take Dorsey or one of the unrelated Long linemen. I think taking a quarterback #1 overall can be a tough hole to put your franchise in. With Ryan, I think they are fairly safe, but there is still a chance that he turns out mediocre or even sub-par, like Alex Smith has been. If that is the case, then you have a quarterback dilemma every game, do you start the million-dollar baby, or do you put the best guy behind center? Look at the Niners with Smith and Shaun Hill. See the Cardinals with Leinart and Kurt Warner. I have to think the smartest move here is to take a disruptive line force that is all but guaranteed to do good things at this level. QBs are iffy, but guys like Dorsey, and the Longs are as sure as sure gets. Anyway, I think the Dolphins will feel a little pressure to pick Ryan as he is the best quarterback prospect and they are a team with nobody at that key position. The urge to get their franchise guy will be too much to pass up, and they’ll take Ryan.
  2. St. Louis Rams (3-13)
    Needs: CB, DE, G, OT, OLB
    Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU

    The Rams will luck out and get their pick between 3 top-rated guys that can make a huge difference in their team’s makeup. I think they’ll go for Dorsey because he is a beast on the defensive line with a superb on-the-field motor, and an athleticism you rarely see from a big man in the middle. Dorsey will instantly take some pressure off the Rams mediocre secondary while demanding a double team and alleviating pressure off the linebackers as well. Chris Long seems like a great defensive end prospect, and Jake Long could definitely find room on the Rams mediocre offensive line, but Dorsey is the guy that I like the most, and I expect him to go here.
  3. Atlanta Falcons (4-12)
    Needs: QB, OT, DT, RB, S
    Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas

    With Matt Ryan off the board, the Falcons luck out and realize that they don’t really have a choice but to choose the draft’s most dynamic player. I know they think they need a quarterback, and that could force them into either making a bad draft pick trade to pick up Brian Brohm later in the 1st round, or even more pathetically, taking the Louisville product here, but over the next couple months they’ll have to realize that passing up on a team cash cow like Darren McFadden, an elite prospect at a position of need that is well-known by anyone who knows football, is even more absurd than giving an absent minded 50% passing quarterback that owns a dog-fighting ring, a 100 million dollar contract. Yes, Atlanta has become known for their mistakes, if it was their Vick troubles or their Patrino hiring – the team is struggling. McFadden won’t line up under center like he did in college, but he will do big things for the team and the city, and he’ll probably have a better career passing percentage than Mike. This pick is a no-brainer in my opinion, even though I think Rashard Mendenhall is, at the very least, just as good of a running back as McFadden – the money making facet of the game has to put the Razorback in Atlanta.
  4. Oakland Raiders (4-12)
    Needs: OT, DT, WR, DE, RB
    Chris Long, DE, Virginia

    With Darren McFadden out of the Raiders’ dreams (Al Davis sheds a tear down his leathery and disturbingly wrinkled cheeks) they’ll have to resort to making a good team decision. Yikes. Chris Long is going to be a good professional that will make his entire team better and he’s the son of former Raider, Howie Long. He’s got the name, the bloodlines, and the style of play that is almost too perfect to be a Raider. However, he’s the best guy left on the board for Oakland, because I don’t see any way that they’ll take a hot prospect offensive tackle from the Big 10. Al maybe senile, but he remembers the last time he did that, I can guarantee you. He has to pay that guy to play mediocre at guard every single week. If Darren is here, he’s a Raider, if he’s not, it’s the best defensive player. Al wants Lane Kiffen gone, so it will be interesting to see how the coaching dilemma works out, but if McFadden is off the board he’ll help Ryan’s defense with this pick.
  5. Kansas City Chiefs (4-12)
    Needs: OT, DE, C, WR, CB
    Jake Long, OT, Michigan

    And Larry Johnson is heard rejoicing at the local Karaoke bar in downtown Kansas City. After LJ’s entire offensive line retired, the destroying runner from Penn State found open lanes tough to come by before he ended his season short with a foot injury. If all works out like he plans, he’ll get himself a Pro-Bowl left tackle out of the Draft in April. Jake Long not only is a perfect prospect in a position of need, but he’s a good character, and a guy that would instantly help a running game that needs to excel for the Chiefs to succeed, and help protect a quarterback that is hardly the beacon of calmness in the pocket. Jake is the perfect fit for Kansas City, which makes me wonder if he really has a chance of dropping to them, can they be this lucky?
  6. New York Jets (4-12)
    Needs: WR, NT, ILB, G, OLB
    Vernon Gholston, DE, OSU

    Luckily for the Jets, they have a chance to take a guy in Vernon Gholston who will help their pass rush immensely and improve the team’s attempt to become a solid 3-4 unit. What makes this pick even better? It takes the only player left on the board that makes sense for the Patriots to select this high in the draft. Yes, the team that instigated this entire spy-gate media-circus is picking ahead of the team they tattled on. Not only that, but the Jets head coach, Eric Mangini, has only Bill Belichick to thank for his current position in New York. These are the Days of Our Lives. It’s crazy how it works out, but the guy who is seemingly perfect for the Jets at 6 is the only guy that makes really good sense for the Patriots at 7. Tough break, Pats. The question is, what will they do now?
  7. New England Patriots (16-0) via San Francisco
    Needs: LB, CB/S depth,
    Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC

    There’s no question that the Patriots will need a cornerback with Asante Samuel moving to GREENER pastures, but I don’t see them taking one here. Why? Well, they don’t want to pay Asante, a pro-bowl corner that was a lock down guy during their amazing run, a ton of money, so why would they want to pay some young kid rookie a ton of money to gradually grow into the spot? I admit, I thought they would go corner here, but after thinking about it, it just doesn’t make sense. They need a corner, yeah, but they have never liked to pay big bucks for their secondary, what makes everyone think they’ll start in this draft? The only guy I can see the Pats taking here is defensive line force, Sedrick Ellis. Why? Because the Patriots pay big bucks for guys like Ellis, and even though he’s probably not the perfect fit, he’s a good enough athlete to mold, and he’s dominant enough to play right away. Ideally, the Patriots will trade down and turn two later picks into Super Bowl cogs that will propel them to the next level. Ideals don’t work too well here, as they are in a mock situation and forced to make a pick. Ellis is the guy if they can’t find a trade. What they should try to do is trade up and get Jake Long – after their offensive line was used in the Super Bowl, they might have to upgrade.
  8. Baltimore Ravens (5-11)
    Needs: CB, QB, OLB, DE, OT
    Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy

    The Ravens vaunted defense gave up the deep ball more than any team in the NFL last season. Considering both of their top corners are growing long in the tooth, I’m guessing they take a chance on Leodis becoming everything Leodis, himself, thinks he can be. With an attitude that matches his game-breaking ability, I just don’t see him lasting much longer than the first 10 picks. I know the Ravens don’t have an immediate need at corner, but the numbers speak for themselves, and McKelvin will, at the very least, help get more coverage players on the field so they don’t give up that long ball as much. The Ravens could go with Brian Brohm if they want to reach a bit, and if their new staff believes he could be the guy. They could also go with Phillip Merling or Derek Harvey, a solid end or a pass rushing super freak of an athlete. There are lots of directions for the Ravens to turn, but upgrading a secondary that got picked a part too often in 2007 seems like the right answer.
  9. Cincinnati Bengals (7-9)
    Needs: DT, LB, OT, DE, TE, discipline
    Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina

    The Bengals biggest asset is their quarterback, Carson Palmer. Last season, the poor kid got thrown around a little more than usual, so why not go out and get one of the best offensive tackle prospects in the draft? They should probably take Clady here, because the pick has good value. However, they certainly need defensive help more, and a guy like Sedrick Ellis would make their defense a lot more ferocious. However, he’s not available, so that leaves them possibly reaching for North Carolina’s very good defensive tackle, Kentwan Balmer. I say reaching because I know Balmer isn’t rated this high, but he certainly is good enough to go here. On a defense that wasn’t stacked with playmakers, Balmer still put in work and caused problems for offenses in the ACC. If the Bengals don’t see resigning Justin Smith as an option, picking up a player like Phillip Merling here could be the better decision. Merling is jumping up draft boards, and was all around solid against the run and pass at Clemson. Lord knows, this team needs a parole officer as much as anything else, but defense should be the direction Cinci goes on draft day. If they skip the idea of picking defense, I think Rashard Mendenhall needs to be selected here – him or Jonathan Stewart. Both backs would instantly become every down studs in the Bengals’ offense. Both can run fast and carry some weight while also owning great hands. But please, Cincinnati, go defense.
  10. New Orleans Saints (7-9)
    Needs: CB, DT, MLB, TE, OLB (Defense)
    Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida

    It is that obvious? If the Saints pick an offensive player with this pick, I’m going to mock their silly asses for the rest of eternity. Maybe they should reach for Manningham (this year’s Robert Meachem) and see how that works out. There are two corners left with a strong first round grade, and I think the Saints will pick their favorite and rely on him to upgrade one of the worst pass defenses in the entire league. The Saints are brutal on defense, and could probably go a lot of different ways here. If Balmer is still available, he’d be a nice selection for a team that has no real attitude in the middle of their defensive line. They could also reach for the best outside linebacker in the draft, Keith Rivers, but I definitely think this is too high for the USC product to go, and they could get a similar prospect in the 2nd round. New Orleans was a disappointment last season, and while their offense was a little more turnover happy, their pathetic defense was the reason for their demise. Expect most of the Saints’ picks to be defensive in nature. I like Jenkins and think he will be a fine NFL corner.
  11. Buffalo Bills (7-9)
    Needs: CB, TE, WR, LB, DT
    Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas

    Will the Bills make it 3 cornerbacks in the last 4 picks? I’m guessing that it won’t happen like this, but hey, that’s the way it looks in this mock draft. I don’t think much room separates Jenkins, Talib, and McKelvin, and all look like first round locks heading into the combine. Talib is one of my favorites. He’s a big corner with the smarts to sit tight in zone coverages, the speed to play man to man against fast receivers, and the size to muscle up and hold his own against bigger receivers in the league. That’s important for the Bills. They lost their star cornerback last year when Nate Clements hit the free-agent market. The result; a poor pass defense and a couple losses that were a direct result of their inability to close out series on passing downs. Talib is an elite prospect and he would immediately help a Bills team looking for secondary starters.
  12. Denver Broncos (7-9)
    Needs: OT, DT, S, MLB, G
    Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State

    Big, super-athletic tackle with the ability to block at the second level and use his football smarts to get his man – sounds like a perfect guy for Shanny to mold into a franchise offensive tackle to me. The Broncos would like to get an elite player at the tackle position to protect their franchise quarterback, Jay Cutler. Clady is that guy. Not only is he an athletic freak of nature, a giant of a man with the agility to fit right in to the Broncos blocking scheme, but Clady is just a damn good football player. I originally had him slipping, but I expect him to get picked right around here.
  13. Carolina Panthers (7-9)
    Needs: QB, WR, DE, OLB, OT
    Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson

    Merling doesn’t come out with as much hype as his former teammate, Gaines Adams, but he might very well be a better all around defensive end. With the ability to hold up against the run and put plenty of pressure on the passer, Merling might be just the guy Carolina needs to light a fire under Peppers’ toosh and get this defense back on solid ground. The Panthers could snag Brian Brohm with this pick, but Jake Delhomme is expected back, and they’ll get better value later in the draft at that spot. Maybe Flacco or Henne. Right now, they need help on defense, because if they can’t put pressure on the quarterback and hold their own against the run, they’re not going to beat anyone next season, not even in a weak NFC South.
  14. Chicago Bears (7-9)
    Needs: QB, OT, DT, G, RB
    Brian Brohm, QB, Lousiville

    I have to think that the Bears will reach for Brohm with this pick. I think Brohm is just a hair behind Matt Ryan, and actually, I imagine the Louisville product will be better at managing the game right off the bat, and his accuracy will be a huge plus in the NFL and especially on a team like Chicago that really only needs their quarterback to hit the open guy and take very few chances. Brohm will have to work on that, as he was the king of taking chances in college, but his arm is strong enough, he’s a good leader, he’s a fighter, and he’s perfect for the Bears at this spot. Chicago could use a lot of things, one of the top rated runners left on the board, a stud offensive lineman, or help at the tackle position, but they’ll be lucky to see Brohm at 14, and they’ll roll the dice. They may have resigned Grossman, and Orton’s still in the mix, but the Bears have to have realized by now that there’s not an answer at quarterback currently on their roster. Get your answers right now.
  15. Detroit Lions (7-9)
    Needs: OT, G, CB, S, DE
    Calais Campbell, DE, Miami

    There are higher rated defensive ends still on the board, but I think Campbell does all the little things that Rod Marineli needs from his ends. Campbell is an all around stud at D-end, and while he’s not a sexy pass rushing type (Harvey for example) he will put his solid technique and strength up against the run, and create pressure against the pass. The Lions need a lot here, and could definitely opt to go in any direction on Draft Day. I like Campbell as a player, and think he’s also a very good fit for the defensively confused Lions. With Shaun Rogers all but gone, this team will need even more help along the defensive line.
  16. Arizona Cardinals (8-8)
    Needs: OLB, CB, TE, RB, DE
    Keith Rivers, LB, USC

    The Cardinals are struggling with Larry Fitzgerald as the young star wants to get paid even more money than the Cardinals are offering, and they’re offering to make him the highest paid receiver in football. Sounds like a case of the stupids if you ask me. Larry wants all the money in the world, and what he doesn’t realize is that he’ll continue to be part of the “Real Cardinals” if he doesn’t be reasonable and accept the best receiver salary in football. The Cardinals are dumb for doing a deal that could pay a receiver 15-17 million a year in the first place, but who can blame them, they’re the Cardinals. That brings us to the draft where the Cardinals might feel like they have to take the best linebacker on the board. They’re losing at least one pass rushing, solid linebacker in Daryl Blackstock because the Cards can’t re-sign him because of Larry’s salary cap complications. Keith Rivers is the best backer on the board, and that makes this a great pick in my opinion.
  17. Minnesota Vikings (8-8)
    Needs: DE, WR, S, QB, TE
    Kenny Phillips, S, Miami

    I think Kenny Phillips is a great safety prospect that is also an asset in pass coverage. He may have had some ups and downs this season, but his ability shouldn’t be questioned. Phillips was the best player on the Hurricane’s defense, and is a guarantee for the first round. He’s the best safety on the board by a long-shot, and it always seems like Minnesota is trying to get better there. The Vikings definitely need help on defense, and I can almost guarantee they’ll go that direction with their 1st round pick. The only way they go another direction is if they’re sold on some receiver as being the next Randy Moss without the public mooning or in game frustrations. I don’t think there’s that kind of receiver in this class, so the best safety and a great all around help in the secondary seems like a great choice to me.
  18. Houston Texans (8-8)
    Needs: CB, G, WR, S, OT
    Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon

    This kid is a beast of a running back. Think Ron Dayne but with the ability to hit the hole, run fast, and catch the ball like a receiver. So, basically, think Ron Dayne, but completely different and way more effective. Think Dayne’s size with a touch of Brian Westbrook. Think, hell, I don’t know who to compare him to, but let me tell you this; Stewart is a freak of nature. He’s a huge back with better hands than most receivers. He’s unbelievably patient, which should make him a perfect fit for the Houston Texans zone blocking scheme. Stewart might not be the super-dynamic runner that McFadden is, because he never looks like he’s exploding through the hole – but that doesn’t mean he can’t be just as, or more productive than the Arkansas back. He’s got a rare combination of size, speed, and hands that make him usable on every down. The Texans could finally get a running back to take pressure off their quarterback, something they’ve rarely had since their inception into the league.
  19. Philadelphia Eagles (9-7)
    Needs: OT, S, WR, LB, TE
    Malcom Kelly, WR, Oklahoma

    6’4″, great deep speed, great hands. Hmm… Sounds like an option for a pass-happy Eagles team that didn’t have guys getting open last year. I’m not saying that Kelly is Randy Moss or, in the Eagles recent memory – TO, but I am saying that he’s a damn good prospect for a team looking to improve at the wide receiver position. Kelly didn’t kill it at the combine, but he is still killing it on draft boards everywhere. This kid has the ability to go up and get the ball, run past you, and even puts his body on the line in traffic. He needs to add some bulk, but right off the bat, he’d give the Eagles something they don’t have a fast, gamebreaker at receiver. I know Philly’s not in to spending high picks on anything but defensive and offensive linemen, and maybe Free-Agency will lock them up a solid receiver, but all I can think about is how good this team looked with talented receivers, and how mediocre they looked last season with the guys they had catching passes.
  20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7)
    Needs: OT, WR, OLB, CB, QB
    DeSean Jackson, WR, California

    The Bucs will take Joey Galloway #2 and hope for the best. Tampa Bay was brought to tears when Michael Clayton decided to morph into a bust after producing like a perennial All-Pro his rookie season. Now, the Bucs are subject to using Joey Galloway more than his little body can handle, and that can only last so much longer because Joey is racking up the years at a Brett Favre pace. Tampa needs help on the offensive line, as usual, but with so many top prospects at OT, they can easily wait until round 2 and still walk away with a possible starter in 2008. I’m not sold on Jackson’s polish, but I am a buyer of his speed and game-changing illusiveness. I’ve seen him disappear in the college game, but I’ve also seen him confuse many a tackler with his speed and the angles that must be taken. The Bucs, as much as any team, know what that kind of speed can do as a receiver, even if Joey is approaching 40.
  21. Washington Redskins (9-7)
    Needs: WR, DE, S, OT, CB
    Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida

    The Redskins could use an elite pass-rushing prospect, and even though they seem to be gung-ho on adding a nice sized receiver (Limas Sweed, James Hardy are both options here) I think their need for a pass rush is even more important. This team is pretty good right now, but they do need help on the defensive line. I’m not sure that Harvey is ready to be an every down player, but he is physical freak of nature and I expect he’ll be a pass-rushing presence from Day 1. Washington has the ability to just wait and take the best defensive player with this pick, and if they don’t really love any of the guys left at 21, it’s not too early to take a chance on a top receiver. Of course, this is Washington, they could very possibly give up this pick for some over-priced veteran.
  22. Dallas Cowboys (13-3) (from 10-6 Cleveland)
    Needs: CB, WR, OT, ILB, RB
    Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas

    Jones didn’t impress all that much at the combine. The back known for his yards per carry and crazy speed, ran in the mid 4.4s and was one-upped by more than a handful of backs – don’t get me wrong, he’s still fast as hell. He’s also a little bit small, which will have more than a few teams questioning if he could ever be an every-down back, something you usually want from a 1st round pick. Fortunately for the Cowboys, Felix is the perfect player for the Cowboys to pick, and if he’s still there, I just don’t see how they could pass Felix Jones up. Jerry Jones is a huge Arkansas homer, and Jones is expected to go right near the end of the 1st round. He’d give Dallas a perfect back to team with Marion Barber as an absolutely destructive thunder and lightning duo in the Big D. Despite Jones not topping the running back charts in his 40 time, it’s hard to ignore his production. He’s improved his yards per carry every single year of his career, ballooning up to 8.7 yards per tote in his Junior tilt. That’s nuts. He hasn’t proven to be a great receiver, which could knock his value down a bit, but I just see too good a fit in Dallas for them to pass up on him with one of their two first round picks.
  23. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6)
    Needs: OT, C, DE, G, RB, CB
    Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh

    I don’t know if you watched any Steelers’ games late in the year, but Big Ben was skipping around like a scared chipmunk trying to escape oncoming rushers. Otah is a monster of a man that has the upside of a lockdown tackle if he can get his feet quickness up. Right off the bat he’d improve a rushing game that struggled more and more as the season went on. I’m not sure, but I’m guessing that the Steelers’ coaching staff has realized that they aren’t at their best when Ben has to throw the ball most of the time. In fact, he’s at his best when the defense is focusing on a tough rushing attack. Otah’s stock didn’t pick up any speed when he lost to my grandpa in a foot race at the combine, but many people need to remember that offensive linemen probably don’t run the 40 too often, and probably don’t produce very good times in the 40 when they’re not 100% healed from a high ankle sprain. In fact, in my book, the big kid moved up his stock because he came out and competed despite not being 100% – that’s a great asset to possess as an NFL lineman. None of those guys are 100% after Week 1.
  24. Tennessee Titans (10-6)
    Needs: WR, CB, TE, OL
    Fred Davis, TE, USC

    I think Davis is a solid pass catching tight end out of the back field, and definitely gives the Titans more of a threat than the two-man combination of Bo Scathe and Ben Troupe did last year. A pass catching TE that could stretch the field and open up lanes for the Titans pass catchers could be a great thing for Vince Young’s growth as a TE. Heimerdinger has always utilized his tight-ends, and seeing as though he really doesn’t have any, I wouldn’t be all that surprised to see the Titans reach a little and grab the draft’s best prospect with the 24th pick. The Titans could go with one of the drafts’ top receivers, as both Limas Sweed and James Hardy did well at the combine, proving they weren’t going to have a problem with speed (both ran in the 4.5 range). Vince Young could surely use a big tall game breaker on the edge, but with the depth and uncertainty of the receivers in this class, I almost think they’d be better off waiting until Round 2. I know Davis won’t be available by then. I’m not 100% sold on Davis, but everyone else seems to be. That’s why I think he goes here.
  25. Seattle Seahawks (10-6)
    Needs: OT, DT, RB, TE, G
    Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois

    As far as I’m concerned, the Seahawks will be lucky, lucky, lucky to have Mendenhall fall to them with the 25th pick. However, knowing the Hawks, they’ll probably draft some undersized corner or trade out of this spot. Criminal. To pass on a guy like Mendenhall when you’ve forced your fans to watch a guy like Shaunna Alexander over the past 2 years is just criminal behavior. Honestly, I don’t know how Rashard slips this far – but as a guy who is forced to watch more than his fair share of Hawks games, I hope he does. I don’t see how a passing team without an elite rusher passes Mendenhall by. He has great hands, great size, and a major-league burst that is very impressive to witness. Cinci, Chicago, Carolina – they could all use this guy, and he’d immediately be their number one. Now, they might have bigger needs, and that’s the only reason I can foresee Rashard dropping this far. We’ll see what happens, the Hawks could go for the Draft’s best guard, knowing they need a great one to make Shaunna successful, but I think they’d be better off cutting ties with the former MVP and just rolling with the bulky speedster out of Illinois.
  26. Jacksonville Jaguars (11-5)
    Needs: WR, DE, SS, CB
    Lawrence Jackson, DE, USC

    If Jackson is still on the board this late, the Jaguars will have to take the versatile USC end. He’s everything this team needs from the defensive end spot. He does things right. He makes plays with his feet, and he has the ability to hold up at the line of scrimmage against the run. I’ve watched him do it over and over again. Jackson had a great final season, and the promise and improvement he showed should get him into the first round. Another option here would be Quentin Groves, a super talented prospect that struggled during his final season because of injuries. I was close to taking Groves with my pick here, but Jackson seems to be the safer option of the two. Groves has more upside, more speed, and that freak of nature athleticism, but Jackson can do it all, and sometimes safe is the way to go. For the Jags, a team that could win it all as soon as next season, I think safe is the best kind of answer.
  27. San Diego Chargers (11-5)
    Needs: G, OT, NT, FB, RB
    Chilio Rachal, OG, USC

    There’s a few people that think guards are one of the most important positions in a rushing attack’s success. There are some people that think Chilio Rachal is the best guard in the draft. I just happen to be both of those people put into one. Now, Chilio hasn’t gone in any 1st rounds of mock drafts that I’ve seen, but I have a feeling he’ll do okay and up his stock moving forward, plus I just think the kid is legit. The Chargers need help on the line, for the sake of LT in all his glory, this needs to be a team that can impose itself on opposing defensive lines and that wasn’t always the case last year. In fact, it was rarely the case.
  28. Dallas Cowboys (13-3)
    Needs: CB, WR, OT, ILB, RB
    Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt

    After using their first pick on locking away their lightening to Marion Barber’s thunder, this pick will go to helping both of the young backs run in wide open spaces. Williams isn’t the prototypical destroying force of a muscle bound monster at offensive tackle, but his feet are perfect, and he knows how to get the job done by using leverage, quickness, and want-to. I’ll take that in a lineman any day of the week. The Cowboys might go after a receiver here, but it looks very likely that they’ll go after one in free agency or via a trade. Offensive line is the smart and safe pick, especially with a guy like Williams on the board, and even more importantly when you’re losing long time linemen that have set the stage for your running game forever.
  29. San Francisco 49ers (5-11) (via 13-3 Colts)
    Needs: WR, OT, OLB, DE, QB
    Mario Manningham, WR, Michigan

    I’m not a huge fan of Mario, I think he’s overrated, and Luigi is the best of the block crushing, mushroom eating, fire throwing Italian plumbers. As far as Mr. Manningham is concerned, I’m not a huge fan of his either. He sure did finish the season with a flurry, though, and his ability to slice past defenders has him trying to locate a team in the 1st round to take a chance one him. It wouldn’t surprise me if Mike Martz looks at some film and ends up telling his bosses that Manningham would be the #1 from the get go, because the guys they have either don’t catch the ball when it gets to them (D-Jack), or can’t get open downfield at all (Battle). Now, Mario’s stock slipped a lot during the combine, as he just barely ran past Otah in the 40. However, Martz has done well with guys like Furrey, and could get the most out of the Michigan product. I didn’t like him prior to the combine, and I don’t like him all that much after either, but he’s still up there on important peoples lists, and since this draft isn’t all about who I think is great (I’d easily pick 5 WRs over this guy, Hardy, Sweed, Dexter Jackson, Devin Thomas, Caldwell) I have Manningham getting plucked off the board right here. I still think the Niners would be better off building their sub-par defense, but that doesn’t seem likely at this point.
  30. Green Bay Packers (13-3)
    Needs: OT, S, CB, TE
    Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College

    The Packers are very good drafters, and thus will probably surprise “draft experts” with the second to last pick in the draft. Gosder is a monster of a tackle, measuring over 6’6″. He’s athletic and though not extremely heavy, still provides the “man strength” needed to be a great player at this level. Cherilus was relied upon to protect Matt Ryan all season long, and he did a hell of a job. I know I’m not as good at evaluating talent as Ted Thompson is, but I see big things in Cherilus’s future, and maybe, just maybe, the Packers brass agrees with me. Another option might be the young TE from Purdue, he killed the combine with his top-speed, however, I don’t see Thompson grabbing a workout warrior just for the sake of a 40 and some lifts – but Keller might be better than many originally thought.
  31. New York Giants (10-6)
    Needs: OLB, CB, S, OT, DT
    Dan Conner, LB, Penn State

    Best defensive player available, and despite the Giants’ success in stopping the run and winning games with defense late in the year, a young linebacker that wins plays with his mind as well as his body will be a blessing in disguise for the team picking last in the 1st round. Conner has plenty of skills to excel at this level, but does he have the playmaking ability that teams want at this spot? I’m not sure, but I know he’ll make very few mistakes. That’s something that teams covet, especially good teams that need reliable play from their rookies. I like Highsmith a lot, he’s a great playmaker, but his speed (or lack there of) hurt his draft stock too much. They say that the combine can only move you a little either way, but that’s not the case in this extreme situation. Highsmith, a legit playmaker on one of the best defenses in the nation, ran just under a 5 second 40 yard dash. I was 285 in high school, and I ran a 5.0 dash. As you can imagine, that slow time hurts Ali. I still think he’ll get drafted and become a good player, but he has a lot of work to do on draft day. Conner seems like the best fit here, but being Super Bowl Champs allows you to go in a lot of different directions – New York could do anything with this pick. One thing I’m pretty certain about, I don’t expect them to go with any offensive skill position here. In fact, I’d be willing to bet that they don’t even consider the offensive side of the ball unless they think there’s an offensive tackle out there that is ready to be a cornerstone from the get-go.

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2008 NFL Mock Draft – Round 1

My mock draft is going to be a little different than most, but believe me, that’s a good thing. What I’m going to do is let everyone know whom I would take in the first round if I were making millions deciding which way my NFL franchise should invest.

I will also predict whom each NFL team will take on draft day. Players will officially go off my board when the “they will pick” section is completed. For example, if I would pick McFadden, and they pick Glenn Dorsey, Glenn Dorsey is the guy off the board, and I can still choose McFadden later. I’m not taking into account what “other” mock drafts are predicting, and I’m definitely not listening to my uncle – this is what I think after watching games of every single player in my first round. Enjoy the ride – this is the best part of the year. The poor become rich in just a blink.

  1. Miami Dolphins (1-15)
    Needs: MLB, OT, G, DT, CB, QB, LB

    They will pick: Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
  2. St. Louis Rams (3-13)
    Needs: CB, DE, G, OT, OLB

    They will pick: Jake Long, OT, Michigan
  3. Oakland Raiders (4-12)
    Needs: OT, DT, WR, DE, RB

    They will pick: Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
  4. Kansas City Chiefs (4-12)
    Needs: OT, DE, C, WR, CB

    They will pick: Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville
  5. Atlanta Falcons (4-12)
    Needs: QB, OT, DT, RB, S

    They will pick: Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
  6. New York Jets (4-12)
    Needs: WR, NT, ILB, G, OLB

    They will pick: Chris Long, DE, Virginia
  7. New England Patriots (16-0) via San Francisco
    Needs: LB, CB/S depth,

    They will pick: Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas
  8. Baltimore Ravens (5-11)
    Needs: CB, QB, OLB, DE, OT

    They will pick: Vernon Gholston, DE, OSU
  9. Cincinnati Bengals (7-9)
    Needs: DT, LB, OT, DE, TE, discipline

    They will pick: Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
  10. New Orleans Saints (7-9)
    Needs: CB, DT, MLB, TE, OLB

    They will pick: Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida
  11. Buffalo Bills (7-9)
    Needs: CB, TE, WR, LB, DT

    They will pick: DeSean Jackson, WR, California
  12. Denver Broncos (7-9)
    Needs: OT, DT, S, MLB, G

    They will pick: Kenny Phillips, S, Miami
  13. Carolina Panthers (7-9)
    Needs: QB, WR, DE, OLB, OT

    They will pick: Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
  14. Chicago Bears (7-9)
    Needs: QB, OT, DT, G, RB

    They will pick: Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina
  15. Detroit Lions (7-9)
    Needs: OT, G, CB, S, DE

    They will pick: Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida
  16. Arizona Cardinals (8-8)
    Needs: OLB, CB, TE, RB, DE

    They will pick: Keith Rivers, LB, USC
  17. Minnesota Vikings (8-8)
    Needs: DE, WR, S, QB, TE

    They will pick: Malcom Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
  18. Houston Texans (8-8)
    Needs: CB, G, WR, S, OT

    They will pick: Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State
  19. Philadelphia Eagles (9-7)
    Needs: OT, S, WR, LB, TE

    They will pick: Sam Baker, OT, USC
  20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7)
    Needs: OT, WR OLB, CB, QB

    They will pick: Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh
  21. Washington Redskins (9-7)
    Needs: WR, DE, S, OT, CB

    They will pick: Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
  22. Dallas Cowboys (13-3) (from 10-6 Cleveland)
    Needs: CB, WR, OT, ILB, RB

    They will pick: Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
  23. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6)
    Needs: OT, C, DE, G, RB, CB

    They will pick: Reggie Smith, CB, Oklahoma
  24. Tennessee Titans (10-6)
    Needs: WR, CB, TE, WR, OL

    They will pick: Early Doucet, WR, LSU
  25. Seattle Seahawks (10-6)
    Needs: OT, DT, RB, TE, G

    They will pick: Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon
  26. Jacksonville Jaguars (11-5)
    Needs: WR, DE, SS, CB

    They will pick: Lawrence Jackson, DE, USC
  27. San Diego Chargers (11-5)
    Needs: G, OT, NT, FB, RB

    They will pick: Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt
  28. Dallas Cowboys (13-3)
    Needs: CB, WR, OT, ILB, RB

    They will pick: Mario Manningham, WR, Michigan
  29. San Francisco 49ers (5-11) (via 13-3 Colts)
    Needs: WR, OT, OLB, DE, QB

    They will pick: Pat Sims, DT, Auburn
  30. Green Bay Packers (13-3)
    Needs: OT, S, CB, TE, P

    They will pick: Fred Davis, TE, USC
  31. New York Giants (10-6)
    Needs: OLB, CB, S, OT, DT

    They will pick: Dan Conner, LB, Penn State

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2008 NFL Mock Draft – Round 1 Write Ups

Full Mock Draft review write ups below:

  1. Miami Dolphins (1-15)
    Needs: MLB, OT, G, DT, CB, QB, LB
    I would pick: Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
    They will pick: Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College

    I had a tough time deciding between two guys here, but one of my options wasn’t Matt Ryan. I opted for Glenn Dorsey because of his ability to be a special player at a position that doesn’t have a whole lot of playmakers running the show. He’d be great eating up blockers in a 3-4, and he’d be one heck of a force in a 4-3. He’s strong, very fast, and extremely good at using blockers’ momentum against them. He plays hurt, he plays tough, and he’s everything you want to build your defense around. However, I almost went with McFadden, because I think he’s going to be special. Ronnie Brown is very good, and he’ll make a full recovery, but it’d be very hard for me to pass on D-Mac’s promise. The bottom line is, there’s not room for two Top 2 picks at running back on the same roster, not enough carries and not enough money. The Dolphins will probably go with Matt Ryan. They’ll do so because they don’t have a starting quarterback right now, and Ryan has all the tools to be a starter in the NFL. I don’t think Ryan is worth a first overall pick, but I rarely think quarterbacks are. Ryan does have all the intangibles though, and those are often more important to me than arm strength or big college numbers. What did Ryan do with the talent around him? He elevated everyone else, and he won football games against very good opposition. He’s my top quarterback in the draft, but I still think the Fins are making a mistake by passing on a special defensive line force that doesn’t come around every year. There will be another Matt Ryan next season, and the season after that.
  2. St. Louis Rams (3-13)
    Needs: CB, DE, G, OT, OLB
    I would pick: Chris Long, DT, LSU
    They will pick: Jake Long, OT, Michigan

    This is the only other team in the Top 10, that if I were the headman, I would leave McFadden on the board. Jake Long is the best offensive lineman in the draft, and he’s expected to be a good one. I personally don’t think he’s as good as Joe Thomas, but he’s definitely got perennial starting tackle written all over him. Now, the Rams still have Orlando Pace expected to return, but how well has that option worked out lately? Sure, O is a great option when he’s in, but the bottom line is, his health is suspect. Long could at least be a beast of a guard while he waits to take Pace’s spot. There’s nothing this team can do if they don’t have protection. Marc Bulger isn’t going to escape even the slowest of pass-rushers, and Steven Jackson isn’t going to look like Barry Sanders anytime soon. The Rams could go defensive line with this pick, but they’ll opt with protecting two of their biggest investments, Jackson and Bulger. I would go with Chris Long because his attitude is infectious, and that would be a good thing for this defense. I think there are solid offensive line prospects that can be had in Round 2, where I don’t think you’ll find a guy like Long anywhere else in this draft.
  3. Oakland Raiders (4-12)
    Needs: OT, DT, WR, DE, RB
    I would pick: Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
    They will pick: Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas

    Don’t buy into any mock draft that has McFadden lasting longer than the 3rd overall selection. I don’t care who is picking here; McFadden will definitely be off the board by the time pick 4 is on the clock. I have the Raiders picking 3rd because obviously Atlanta doesn’t have the luck it takes to win the coin toss, and in turn, get another franchise player that will make the team millions of dollars. Right? Not enough luck. As for the Raiders, they will begin building around a freak of nature at quarterback and one of the best running back prospects to come out of the college ranks in years. This guy makes Reggie Bush look like a scat-back. McFadden can do it all, and that includes making LT-like touchdown passes out of the backfield. The Arkansas product has none of the injury concerns that Adrian Peterson had with all of the upside. Like I said, I will be stunned if either Oakland or Atlanta (#3 belongs to one of those two teams) passes on the right to start this elite runner. Glenn Dorsey might be hard for the Raiders to pass on from a football standpoint. I mean, Justing Fargas ran well enough last season, and they could resign him and use Rhodes as part of a 1-2 punch, but as a business man and a lover of speed and explosive football players, how can Al Davis pass on McFadden’s star-power?
  4. Kansas City Chiefs (4-12)
    Needs: OT, DE, C, WR, CB
    I would pick: Chris Long, DE, Virginia
    They will pick: Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville

    Another quarterback hunting team that isn’t willing to play their cards and take the best player available. Chris Long is going to be an All-Pro fixture before his career is over, and while Brohm has the make up of a starter, I just don’t see the kid becoming an elite signal caller at the next level. He doesn’t make his decisions fast enough. Don’t get me wrong, he’s a better option than either of the guys they have in Kansas City right now, but I don’t think he’s all that much better than Todd Collins, Kurt Warner, or another veteran that the Chiefs could try under center. Brohm has the upside, but do the Chiefs really need to waste a 1st round pick, 4th overall, on a quarterback when they could draft and groom one in the later rounds? I don’t think they should, but I think they will. Now, I’m going out on a limb here and expecting Brohm to have very solid tryouts, smarts, interviews, and senior game – but I think this kid’s a good enough passer to make that happen.
  5. Atlanta Falcons (4-12)
    Needs: QB, OT, DT, RB, S
    I would pick: Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
    They will pick: Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU

    With two of the top quarterbacks and Darren McFadden already off the board, the Falcons can’t help but make a good pick here. That’s right, all their “stupid” possibilities are gone, and now they’ll have to pick a player like Dorsey who will help transform their pass rush and defensive motor to the point of respectability. Poor bastards. Their bad luck and inability to win themselves a good coin flip and a spot in the McFadden sweepstakes will eventually allow them to pick the right player after all. I honestly think they can do all right with Leftwich at quarterback and a season of learning a new coaches’ system under his belt. Lefty did good things at Jacksonville, and I think too many people are writing him off because he didn’t produce in his limited opportunities with the Falcons – but he’s shown he’s a winner. Regardless, if the 1st round QBs and McFadden are off the board, like they are in this Mock’s case, I see the Falcons making a good pick that will help their defense immediately. Even bad offenses can win with good defenses. Sedrick Ellis, Chris Long, and possibly Calais Campbell could also be taken here if they aren’t lucky enough to see Dorsey slip. Long has all the tools, and would be a great option opposite Jonathan Abrahm, but if Dorsey is on the board at 5, lock him up in a Falcons uniform.
  6. New York Jets (4-12)
    Needs: WR, NT, ILB, G, OLB
    I would pick: Chris Long, DE, Virginia
    They will pick: Chris Long, DE, Virginia

    If Chris Long is available with the 6th pick, the Jets better make this pick in less than a minute. Long has all the ability to cause pressure off the end and help shut down the run, two things the Jets need a lot of help in doing. Chris Long may not fit perfectly in the Jets’ scheme, but his ability to play football can’t be questioned. He’s the best player left on the board, and he’s probably the safest pick as well. That combination doesn’t come around all that often on draft day, so this choice should be easy for the Jets.
  7. New England Patriots (16-0) via San Francisco
    Needs: LB, CB/S depth,
    I would pick: Vernon Gholston, DE, OSU
    They will pick: Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas

    It’s not like the Patriots to reach for a player, but it is like them to take a game changer immediate impact player with their first few picks in the draft. I think Talib is that kind of guy, so I can’t consider their decision here a bad thing. With Asante Samuel almost certainly out the door, Talib can come right in and help a secondary that will be missing one of their best cover guys. Talib not only has great speed, leaping ability, and ball skills – he has the versatility that always seems to attract Patriotic Brass. Yes, Talib showed he could play offense if needed, return punts, he’s a playmaker. The Patriots don’t have all that many needs, they are 18-0 as we speak, but a versatile corner with size and special ability can find a home with any team.
  8. Baltimore Ravens (5-11)
    Needs: CB, QB, OLB, DE, OT
    I would pick: Ryan Clady, DE, Boise State
    They will pick: Vernon Gholston, DE, OSU

    I think Clady is going to be a cornerstone left tackle in the NFL, and the fact that Baltimore is losing one of the best of all time (Ogden’s probably retirement) should help Baltimore make Clady the pick. However, a lot will depend on their new direction and coaching plans. I can see the team missing what Adalius Thomas did for them, and going with the multi-talented Vernon Gholston with this pick. Clady has his skeptics, and it’s possible that Baltimore’s staff will be one of them. Gholston doesn’t have many scouts that don’t trust in his ability to make a difference. This team has relied upon their defense for years, and now age is starting to become a factor. With Gholston, you would have an athletic freak of nature to pair with Terrell Suggs. That combination, and the terror it could cause, could very well be too much to pass up for the Ravens new staff. I see reason for both picks, and I just have a feeling that Baltimore will pretend that one of their back-ups can come in and take over Ogden’s spot. They’ll obviously be mistaken, but that doesn’t make Vernon a bad pick.
  9. Cincinnati Bengals (7-9)
    Needs: DT, LB, OT, DE, TE, discipline
    I would pick: Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
    They will pick: Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC

    The Bengals need so much help on defense that anywhere is a good place to start. Getting a guy like Sedrick Ellis is one of the better places to begin, however. Ellis has a nice motor for a huge defensive tackle, and the Bengals need help up front in a hurry. Ellis ended the season well, and proved to be a pass rushing force as well as a top-notch defender against the run. Ellis doesn’t get all the hype that Glenn Dorsey receives, but he’s not that far behind the big tackle from LSU. Ellis uses his speed and athleticism to fool guards and centers, and split double team after double team during the last two seasons. Ellis does it all, and if he falls to the Bengals, they’ll be lucky to have him.
  10. New Orleans Saints (7-9)
    Needs: CB, DT, MLB, TE, OLB
    I would pick: Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida
    They will pick: Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida

    The Saints better lace their boots up right and pick defense all weekend. That “speedy receiver” BS isn’t going to fly with a lot of people this time around, and something tells me that if they go that direction again, Sean Peyton’s tenure in New Orleans won’t last all that long. Jenkins is the pick, in my opinion, and I’m going out on a limb here when I say the Saints will agree. Jenkins has the size and ability to help the Saints’ secondary, and that is definitely a group that needs to be reworked and retooled if the Saints want to get back to the playoffs. I think Talib and Jenkins are as close to a toss up as top corners get, and both would be a great addition for the Saints. New Orleans has baffled me in the past, but they don’t have much of a choice come draft time. Their defense couldn’t stop anybody, and that’s why, despite their solid offensive totals, they won just 7 games. Mike Jenkins didn’t play at a huge school, but if you watch this kid for just a few games, you’ll see that he has the makings of an impact corner at the next level.
  11. Buffalo Bills (7-9)
    Needs: CB, TE, WR, LB, DT
    I would pick: Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina
    They will pick: DeSean Jackson, WR, California

    This is a talented kid, but not a good pick for the Bills. They once again ignore some more important positional needs to try and put another playmaker on the offensive side of the ball. For a team that needs to stop the run with a little more effectiveness, and just stop allowing touchdowns so often, you’d think defense would be a little more important. I’m hoping, because I kind of have a soft spot for the Bills since they lost back-to-back-to-back-to-back Super Bowls a while back, that they pull their heads out of their collective tail-pipes and take a young stud defensive run stuffer with loads of talent here. I’m guessing they’ll take the electric playmaker route, and that will only mean one more year of defensive frustration out of the young Bills.
  12. Denver Broncos (7-9)
    Needs: OT, DT, S, MLB, G
    I would pick: Ryan Clady, DE, Boise State
    They will pick: Kenny Phillips, S, MiamiT

    he Broncos haven’t had as much success on the ground lately, and that’s because they need more difference makers on the offensive line. However, passing up on a premier offensive tackle prospect for immediate help in the secondary isn’t as stupid as it sounds. Lynch is getting charred as we speak, and for his own sake I hope he is nearing the end of his career. The man hits way too hard and lays himself on the line every single week. I have so much respect for him, but the Broncos might need to look for some help in the draft. It’s unlike Splinter to go gung ho after a safety this early, but Phillips could be the versatile playmaker this team needs. I would go with line help on either side of the ball, Calais Campbell (DE, Miami) would be a great choice if they went that side of the ball, but Clady has great size and the athleticism linemen need for Bronco-ball. Anyway, I think the Broncos get a little flashy here, and go for the kid that makes all the plays. But one of these days they’ll have to go after some beasts on the line, that’s where games are won and lost.
  13. Carolina Panthers (7-9)
    Needs: QB, WR, DE, OLB, OT
    I would pick: Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
    They will pick: Calais Campbell, DE, Miami

    Please, pair this young beast up with Julius Peppers and watch the opposition do their best to game plan around to super talented ends with too much size and athleticism to spare. Word on the curb is that Mike Rucker is going to retire, and that would even make this pick make more sense. Many will say that the Panthers should shoot for a quarterback (my uncle for example) but I just don’t see it. The Panthers need to win now if Fox wants to keep his job, and I don’t like Woodson’s release enough to see him going here. A quarterback right here would be a project player, and like I said, this team is set up to win right now. They need help defensively, that is obvious with their failure to meet expectations all season long. Campbell is too skilled to pass up for a team in need.
  14. Chicago Bears (7-9)
    Needs: QB, OT, DT, G, RB
    I would pick: Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State
    They will pick: Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina

    I know, they need a quarterback, and thus they will make Andre’ Woodson their man. Come on now, it’s not that simple. In fact, this used to be a team that didn’t need a quarterback to win. Remember those good old days? They weren’t that long ago. In fact, they are still around. Rex might not be the answer, hell, there might not be a guy on this roster that is the answer – but they can still win games, and it all starts with help on the offensive and defense lines. Both were brutal this season, and both need help. Clady would give the Bears a boost at OT, and that would in turn make everything on offensive run with a little more efficiency. But I think the Bears will go with defense to start, and be yet another team that passes on one of the most athletic O-linemen in the draft. But, Balmer is a super-talented defensive tackle that played on a bad college team. That means he got the oppositions best double team every single night, and he still looked good all season long. The Bears need a guy that can do the dirty work and keep blockers off of Urlacher and company. I like the Balmer pick, but think Clady has a chance to be a star. Either one is better than a last chance gasp at a starting quarterback.
  15. Detroit Lions (7-9)
    Needs: OT, G, CB, S, DE
    I would pick: Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State
    They will pick: Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida

    I know the Lions rarely prove to be an intelligent breed of rich people when making athletic decisions, but they have to make this pick if Clady is still on the board. I know Jake Long is the biggest baddest hombre on the O-line prospect list, but I honestly think Clady has more room to grow and a higher top line. The Lions were absolutely terrible running the ball this season, and even though a lot has to do with Doctor Crazy Martz calling the plays, you can’t look at game film and tell me that this offense doesn’t need help on the line. I know this team needs help on defense as well (31st ranked pass defense), but that very well may work itself out if the Lions just spend more effort trying to control the clock. It doesn’t matter though, attempts to talk sense into these people are futile, and they will almost surely go for a flashy pick here instead. (See almost all past drafts) But, there is no way I can publish a mock draft that has the Lions taking Rashard Mendenhall, so I’m going to pretend, for just a second, that Detroit has a clue about life now, and will ignore that urge to make a dumb pick, and just get better up front like the desperately need to do. However, they never do what I think they’ll do, so I’m going out on a limb and saying they’ll ignore Clady to get help on the defensive line first. I don’t think the value is there, but Derrick Harvey is a pass rushing specialist freak of nature that could help the Lions immediately. He’s only 245lbs, but he’s long, fast, and super athletic.
  16. Arizona Cardinals (8-8)
    Needs: OLB, CB, TE, RB, DE
    I would pick: Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois
    They will pick: Keith Rivers, LB, USC

    Believe it or not, Rashard Mendenhall could be the answer here, but I think the Cardinals will roll with Edgerrin James one more season, if only to draft a position they need more than running back. The reason I’d take Mendenhall is because I think he’ll be special. He attacks the hole like Ryan Grant, but this kid is faster. He makes speedy defenses look slow, and he overpowers tacklers at the point of attack. He had a great bowl game and a great season, especially when you think about the lack of passing attack Illinois had all season. I love Edge, but running backs careers end to fast, and Edge has a lot of mileage on those knees. Rashard could learn from a pros pro, and the Cards would have a stud runner for the not so distant future. However, like I said, I don’t think the Cardinals will waste a 1st round pick on running back when they have Edge and some decent backups. I think the Cardinals will go after a bigger need, and pluck Keith Rivers with their 16th pick. I know this is a bit of a reach, but Rivers does things the right way. I think he’ll test out better than expected, and the fact that he’s always making plays will help him in the eyes of Ken Whisenhunt and Ken’s staff. This is a reach, I know, but it’s not a mistake.
  17. Minnesota Vikings (8-8)
    Needs: DE, WR, S, QB, TE
    I would pick: Reggie Smith, CB/S, Oklahoma
    They will pick: Malcom Kelly, WR, Oklahoma

    The Vikings will pretend that wide receiver is their problem, but I have to be honest, I think they are just fine at that spot. I would take Reggie Smith, put him wherever he can make the most plays, and win two more football games in 2008 because of it. Yes, the Vikings struggled in the secondary as the season moved forward, and that had a great deal to do with their losses. But Kelly is a nice prospect with good size and speed. He catches the ball and will help make things happen for the Vikings, but he’s not the right choice. It’s unfortunate, but sometimes NFL Brassies get confused about what a team needs because they look at where the team lacked production. In everybody’s eyes, the Vikings lacked passing efficiency, but to blame that on the receiving corps is a little much in my opinion. This team had youth at quarterback all year long, and that was the biggest reason for passing problems. If they get smart, they’ll take the best secondary piece available in Round 1, and go from there. The way it is, I think they’ll take Kelly.
  18. Houston Texans (8-8)
    Needs: CB, G, WR, S, OT
    I would pick: Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State
    They will pick: Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State

    The Texans draft smart, and they need one of the best offensive tackle projects in the draft to help keep their stars healthy. Sure, they need a running back, because obviously Ahman Green isn’t ever going to be healthy again – but there are plenty of running backs that would help the Texans in this draft, and there’s only one elite offensive tackle prospect left on the board, and it’s only straight luck that they get him here. Clady can do it all, and has proven that against elite competition over the last couple of years. The Texans are too smart to pick a running back when instant help in their most needed position is right smack in front of them. This pick is a no-brainer if Clady is on the board this late. The thought the Houston just can’t get away without a “franchise 1st round running back” is absurd. The Broncos have proven for years, if you have the right group up front, and a scheme that works with a select style, your running game can succeed without that MVP runner.
  19. Philadelphia Eagles (9-7)
    Needs: OT, S, WR, LB, TE
    I would pick: Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh
    They will pick: Sam Baker, OT, USC

    Pick your favorite here, I guess, but I see Otah as a better pro tackle than Sam Baker. I know, Baker is a California boy and he gets all that hype because he’s anchored USC’s line for a few years – but Otah is the bigger, badder, more dominant force on the line of scrimmage, and that’s how I see it. I actually wouldn’t be surprised if the Eagles do something completely off-base here, but seeing them try to pass protect this season made me a little uneasy, and I can only imagine that Andy Reid and company feel the same. The Eagles need more of a force on the line of scrimmage in both pass and run blocking, and while I like Otah more, Baker seems to be the consensus higher rated player of the two. Either one would help the Eagles offensive line woes, they need to replace some age with a little youth, and this pick should get them on the right foot.
  20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7)
    Needs: OT, WR OLB, CB, QB
    I would pick: Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh
    They will pick: Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh

    Three offensive tackles in a row? Here’s the deal, almost every team in the league could use some help on the offensive line. The way I figure, Philadelphia will make Tampa’s pick for them. They could really use a top prospect at tackle, as their lack of youth and explosiveness in the passing game forces them to run the ball a lot. Earnest Graham has proven to be more than capable if Cadillac Williams struggles with his attempted comeback, but Otah would only help the cause. He’s a monster of a man, and he’s athletic for the position. Not only that, but he had his best games against the toughest competition, which is a great thing for an offensive lineman, or any player for that matter. Otah is a beast, and he fits perfectly into the Bucs system.
  21. Washington Redskins (9-7)
    Needs: WR, DE, S, OT, CB
    I would pick: Lawrence Jackson, DE, USC
    They will pick: Limas Sweed, WR, Texas

    Sweed has a lot of things going for him, and I can’t argue with the Redskins getting a receiver over 5’9″, but I really think they could make a great pick here by taking Jackson from USC. They won’t, and they probably will grab the big, athletic receiver from Texas if he’s on the board, but I think Sweed is a reach here. But he is a great athlete with decent speed as a 6’4″, 220lb receiver. I don’t know why the Redskins have insisted on miniature receivers all these years, but Sweed could really add something to the outside game that could definitely help a young quarterback like Jason Campbell. It will be interesting to see where the Redskins go with this pick, because obviously they’ll have a new head coach, and likely a new offensive game plan. My next mock will probably have a little more about he Redskins pick, but right now there’s too many questions, and they definitely need help on the defensive line and a big playmaking wide receiver. So, we’ll see.
  22. Dallas Cowboys (13-3) (from 10-6 Cleveland)
    Needs: CB, WR, OT, ILB, RB
    I would pick: Dan Conner, LB, Penn State
    They will pick: Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas

    I don’t believe the “Dallas needs a running back” hype, but apparently, somewhere in the glass eye of an on-looking pirate, Marion Barber doesn’t have enough ability to be an every-down back. As far as I’m concerned, that is a pile of crap. But, Julius Jones continued to start all year, and there’s been loads of rumorville gossip pushing the Cowboys’ trading up to get Darren McFadden. There’s no reason to do such a thing, as I believe Barber to be one of the Top 5 running backs in the NFL, but obviously the Cowboys’ staff doesn’t think Barber can be that guy. Either that, or the Boys were just trying to save MBIII for the future. Either way, I actually think Jones would be a better fit than McFadden. Jones has more game-breaking ability, and would act as the perfect compliment to Barber’s thunder. But, like I said, I still think there’s a better pick out there for Dallas. Reggie Smith could be an athletic safety that takes good angles and doesn’t get beat deep like the combo Dallas has right now, or he could be immediate corner help. Either way, he’s be a more reasonable selection. My pick, Dan Conner, would fill a hole in the middle for the Cowboys, and give them one of the best linebacking units in football. Conner is an extremely smart linebacker that always finds a way to make a play. But, Jerry Jones is a plastic-faced freak of mind-numbing decisions – and I see him taking Felix Jones (who I think will be a great running back in this league) with the first of his two 1st round picks. I just don’t think Dallas needs Jones, but they could definitely use the kid.
  23. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6)
    Needs: OT, C, DE, G, RB, CB
    I would pick: Lawrence Jackson, DE, USC
    They will pick: Reggie Smith, CB, Oklahoma

    I don’t care what people say about the Steelers not needing secondary help, just look at their play over the 2nd half of the season. While I would take Lawrence Jackson’s huge frame and productive work ethic, I don’t see a problem with taking Reggie Smith if he’s still on the board. He would give any defense a lot of options, and you can never have too many playmakers in the secondary. Smith could help immediately, and I think he will. Jackson would help with a pass rush, and if Mike Tomlin has his way and moves this defense along to a 4-3, Jackson would be a great option at defensive end. However, there are options that fit better in a 3-4, and Pittsburgh can use a 2nd round pick on one of those players if they feel they need it. I like Jackson if he lasts this long, but understand completely if the Steelers go with Smith, as I have them doing here.
  24. Tennessee Titans (10-6)
    Needs: WR, CB, TE, WR, OL
    I would pick: Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt
    They will pick: Early Doucet, WR, LSU

    I think the pick before this one could have saved me calling the addition of a receiver here, stupid. However, Doucet doesn’t strike me as a guy who will excel at the next level. I don’t know what it is, but I just don’t see him doing huge things as a pro. Personally, I think more help on the offensive line would better suit the Titans, and while a lot of linemen have been taken already, I’d like to see the Titans select Chris Williams, the big offensive tackle from Vanderbilt. Williams would help give Young a little more time, and he would give the Titans an opportunity to move some people around and really improve their line across the board. However, the need to “find Vincent Young some playmakers” seems to be a major goal for the Titans. Yes, blame the receivers! Okay, so Vince’s group of pass catchers dropped more than a few balls, sure, but that’s just because they were stunned when it got their accurately and on time. Too hard on Vince? Actually, I like Vince a lot, but everyone knew he was going to take a little longer to mature in the NFL, but now everyone is frustrated at his down year. Seriously, he’s one of the better offensive players from that draft, and his ability to win football games is obvious to any doubter willing to pull his head out of his inner piping. The best QB in the league? No – but who is? Anyway, Doucet is pretty good at a lot of things, but I don’t see him being a Hines Ward type player, and I don’t see him being the game-breaker many are predicting. I wish him the best, but I don’t see it.
  25. Seattle Seahawks (10-6)
    Needs: OT, DT, RB, TE, G
    I would pick: Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois
    They will pick: Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon

    So, in this case, I’m actually going for a running back as the answer as opposed to an offensive linemen. However, the Hawks could realize that they haven’t been half the running team since the got sniped by the Vikings and saw Steve Hutchinson leave, and thus do their best to replace that spot via the draft. But no, please, please, pretty please, save me from watching any more Shaun Alexander runs. I’m going with the idea that Seattle, like me, is tired of seeing Shauna run the ball absolutely no where, and they’ll go RB if the price is right at 25. With two great backs available, they have to, right? I think Mendenhall is going to be special, so even though he’s not the all around back that Stewart is (and Jon would better fit Seattle’s attack because of his receiving and blocking skills) I would choose him in this situation. As I said earlier, he attacks the line of scrimmage like Ryan Grant but with more speed. That’s a great combination, and I can only see him becoming a star in the NFL. On the other hand, I love Stewart’s game as well, I’m just not sure he’s going to be the elite player that Rashard could be. Both have plenty of upside, and both would be good picks for Seattle – so please, for the love of decreasing Shauna’s touches, take one of these talented rooks.
  26. Jacksonville Jaguars (11-5)
    Needs: WR, DE, SS, CB
    I would pick: Lawrence Jackson, DE, USC
    They will pick: Lawrence Jackson, DE, USC

    If Jackson is still on the board this late, the Jaguars will have to take the versatile USC end. He’s everything this team needs from the defensive end spot. He does things right. He makes plays with his feet, and he has the ability to hold up at the line of scrimmage against the run. I’ve watched him do it over and over again. Jackson had a great final season, and the promise and improvement he showed should get him into the first round. Another option here would be Quentin Groves, a super talented prospect that struggled during his final season because of injuries. I was close to taking Groves with my pick here, but Jackson seems to be the safer option of the two. Groves has more upside, more speed, and that freak of nature athleticism, but Jackson can do it all, and sometimes safe is the way to go. For the Jags, a team that could win it all as soon as next season, I think safe is the best kind of answer.
  27. San Diego Chargers (11-5)
    Needs: G, OT, NT, FB, RB
    I would pick: Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt
    They will pick: Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt

    The Chargers could use some help on the offensive line, and I think Williams is a guy that could work just right. Vanderbilt wasn’t a top program, but that shouldn’t take anything away from Chris. He’s been the best offensive lineman for Vanderbilt over the last two seasons, and his athleticism for a big guy is the reason why. In 2006, the 6’6″ 325lb offensive tackle allowed just one sack all season long. In 2007, Williams continued his dominance over the competition. Chris has his best games against top-flight competition, warding off the best pass rushers each defense has, and thus giving his quarterback time. For his size, and for any offensive lineman, Williams has a very quick punch and great feet. He’s the type of guy that can be molded into a top-notch protector. Phillip Rivers could use a little more protection, and LT’s career might last a little longer with big Chris.
  28. Dallas Cowboys (13-3)
    Needs: CB, WR, OT, ILB, RB
    I would pick: Dan Conner, LB, Penn State
    They will pick: Mario Manningham, WR, Michigan

    This is another receiver that I think is overrated. I like James Hardy more, and personally, I don’t think the Cowboys need to throw yet another 1st round pick away on an offensive player when their freaking offense was one of the best units in the entire league. Defensive help would be ideal, and Conner could do a lot of things for the Cowboys right off the bat. But then again, what do I know? I know Conner won’t test out that well on combine day, and honestly, I could care less about that BS. What he will do is make lots of plays for any team that picks him up, and the Cowboys could use his sure tackling and knowledge of the game. But, they are getting older at receiver, and they could go after a receiver with this pick. I don’t think they need receiving help, but why not take a chance on a very talented kid in James Hardy? The Cowboys have the ability to take a chance with this pick, and if they keep it, Hardy could be steal. However, I personally don’t even think the Cowboys will end up with this pick on draft day. A trade up or down makes more sense for a team that doesn’t really desperately need anything. I like Conner and think he’d be a perfect fit, but if the Boys stay here, it could be for Mr. Manningham.
  29. San Francisco 49ers (5-11) (via 13-3 Colts)
    Needs: WR, OT, OLB, DE, QB
    I would pick: James Hardy, WR, Indiana
    They will pick: Pat Sims, DT, Auburn

    The 49ers have made too many picks for receivers with questionable backgrounds and mental stability, so I don’t think they’ll take a chance on James Hardy, but the more research I do, the more they need a good receiver. Look at their recent history; TO went nuts and bolted for greener pastures, before flying to Dallas after going gonzo on another team. Brandon Lloyd, please, locker room rust. Then trading for that kid via Cleveland that got drafted by Dallas (Antonio Bryant); that turned out to be a ticking time bomb as well. I don’t know much about Hardy, except that he’s one hell of a football player, but I don’t see the 49ers taking a chance on another receiver with baggage, so there goes my pick. However, that leaves room for my 2nd pick, one Pat Sims from Auburn. This big, bad defensive lineman had a great season in ’07, and he seems as though he’s just started to come into his own. The 49ers defensive front was brutal, and Sims could stuff the run and penetrate the backfield. He made plays all season long form the defensive tackle position, showing that he not only hold up against double teams, but make a difference. I like him going to San Francisco, and maybe the Niners taking the high road will be just what they need.
  30. Green Bay Packers (13-3)
    Needs: OT, S, CB, TE, P
    I would pick: Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy
    They will pick: Fred Davis, TE, USC

    I think McKelvin would help take this secondary to the next level in passing situations, but I foresee the Packers finally going for offensive help in the passing game and taking this supposed elite tight end receiving prospect. Is he fast enough? I don’t know, I’m not completely sold on him yet, and kind of believe that he’s a product of the system that he was in at USC. However, a lot of people think pretty highly of this kid, so maybe I’m wrong. I like McKelvin because, despite the Packers insistence that Al Harris is one of the best man-to-man corners in the league, I often watched the Pro-Bowler get lost in his coverage, losing the ball one to many times, and allowing more than his share of big plays. Now, I still think Harris is a great option, and he should stay around Green Bay, but both he and Charles Woodson are collecting years, and a young corner with ball skills and top-notch speed could be a great assistance in helping the Packers reach the next level.
  31. New York Giants (10-6)
    Needs: OLB, CB, S, OT, DT
    I would pick: Ali Highsmith, LB, LSU
    They will pick: Dan Conner, LB, Penn State

    Best defensive player available, and despite the Giants’ success in stopping the run and winning games with defense late in the year, a young linebacker that wins plays with his mind as well as his body will be a blessing in disguise for the team picking last in the 1st round. Conner has plenty of skills to excel at this level, but does he have the playmaking ability of Highsmith? I’m not sure Highsmith will test out like a workout warrior, but on the football field there wasn’t a guy at LSU that forced more turnovers or proved to be a bigger game-breaker that Ali. This kid is as competitive a player as I’ve seen in a long time. He doesn’t have out of this world size or speed, but he knows how to get his hands on the ball, make tackles, get in the right spot, and he just has the will to win. I’d go with him, but the Giants couldn’t go wrong with Dan Conner either. Conner played excellent football at Linebacker U, and I imagine he’ll turn into a good player at the next level. I just like Highsmith more.

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Papa Weimer 2008 NFL Mock Draft

Round 1 Pre-Combine
By Papa Weimer
2008 NFL Draft Order Player School
No.    Team                                     Player             School
1      Miami Dolphins (###)                     Glenn Dorsey       LSU
2      St. Louis Rams                           Jake Long          MICH
3      Atlanta Falcons #                        Darren McFadden    ARK
4      Oakland Raiders #                        Chris Long         VIRG
5      Kansas City Chiefs #                     Brian Brohm        LOUI
6      New York Jets                            Sedrick Ellis      USC
7      New Eng. Patriots(from 49ers)(###)       James Laurinaitas  OSU
8      Baltimore Ravens                         Matt Ryan          BC
9      Cincinnati Bengals                       Malcom Jenkins     OSU
10     New Orleans Saints                       Kenny Phillips     Miami
11     Buffalo Bills                            Mike Jenkins       SF
12     Denver Broncos                           Calais Campbell    Miami
13     Carolina Panthers                        Andre Woodson      UK
14     Chicago Bears                            Ryan Clady         Boise
15     Detroit Lions                            Sam Baker          USC
16     Arizona Cardinals                        Vernon Gholston    OSU
17     Minnesota Vikings                        DeSean Jackson     CAL
18     Houston Texans                           Jonathan Stewart   Oregon
19     Philadelphia Eagles                      Lawrence Jackson   USC
20     Tampa Bay Buccaneers *                   Malcom Kelly       OU
21     Washington Redskins *                    Llimas Sweed       TEX
22     Dallas Cowboys(from Browns)*(###)        Aqib Talib         KAN
23     Seattle Seahawks *                       Felix Jones        ARK
24     Pittsburgh Steelers *                    Jeff Otah          PITT
25     Tennessee Titans *                       Kentwan Blamer     NC
26     New York Giants *                        Dan Conner Penn    St.
27     San Diego Chargers *                     Ali Highsmith      LSU
28     Jacksonville Jaguars *                   Keith Rivers       USC
29     Green Bay Packers *                      Derrock Harvey     FLA
30     Dallas Cowboys * (###)                   Rashard Mendenhall ILL
31     San Francisco 49ers (from Colts) *       Antoine Cason      ARZ
32     New England Patriots * spy gate - whoop!                    Hrdkncks

* -- Subject to playoffs
# -- Subject to coin flip
### -- I think pick will be traded

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THROUGH 10 Rounds; Team Breakdowns

Well, most of the big-named players had been chosen by the end of Round 10, so here’s a breakdown of each team’s roster for easier viewing. Remember, this is before the last 8 rounds, and a 3 round rookie draft. But most starting lineups will deal with these 10 players on each team. Check it out. I hope you enjoyed a look into a real fantasy draft done by myself and a group of my closest friends. LL
Team 1: Steven Jackson, Roy Williams, Carson Palmer, LenDale White, Braylon Edwards, Chris Cooley, Dominic Rhodes, Daniel Graham, Jeff Garcia, Michael Clayton

Team 2: LaDainian Tomlinson, Kevin Jones, Drew Brees, Deion Branch, Jerious Norwood, Terry Glenn, Kellen Winslow, Broncos Defense, Maurice Stovall, Troy Williamson

Team 3: Larry Johnson, Chester Taylor, Ladell Betts, Jay Cutler, Chris Chambers, DJ Hackett, Mike Furrey, LJ Smith, Steve McNair, Seahawks Defense

Team 4: Frank Gore, Javon Walker, Marvin Harrison, Mike Vick, Fred Taylor, Brandon Marshall, Todd Heap, Brett Favre, Cowboys Defense, Warrick Dunn

Team 5: Reggie Bush, Marion Barber, Anquan Boldin, Vince Young, LaMont Jordan, Kevin Curtis, Bernard Berrian, Randy McMichael, Trent Green, Packers Defense

Team 6: Willie Parker, Reggie Wayne, Andre Johnson, Tatum Bell, Phillip Rivers, Algae Crumpler, Jake Delhomme, Joey Galloway, Jaguars Defense, Sammy Morris

Team 7: Laurence Maroney, Cadillac Williams, Marques Colston, Mark Clayton, Eli Manning, Bears Defense, Tony Romo, Corey Dillon, Drew Bennett, Chris Henry

Team 8: Jospeh Addai, Tory Holt, Brandon Jacobs, Reggie Brown, Donte Stallworth, Hines Ward, JP Losman, Chris Brown, Daunte Culpepper, Damon Huard

Team 9: Cliton Portis, DeAngelo Williams, Deuce McAllister, Donovan McNabb, Jericho Cotchery, Ronald Curry, Alex Smith, Patriots Defense, Reggie Williams, Mushin Muhammad

Team 10: Brian Westbrook, Larry Fitzgerald, Marc Bulger, Jeremy Shockey, Laveranues Coles, Matt Jones, Leon Washington, Rex Grossman, Chris Perry, Steelers Defense, Michael Jenkins

Team 11: Cedric Benson, Steve Smith, Lee Evans, Antonio Gates, Matt Leinart, Reuben Droughns, Mike Bell, Arnaz Battle, Panthers Defense, Joe Horn

Team 12: Shaun Alexander, Marion Barber, Ahman Green, Donald Driver, Vincent Jackson, Ben Roethlisberger, Devery Henderson, Ben Watson, Matt Schaub, Vikings Defense

Lucky Llamas (Team 13): Ronnie Brown, Maurice Jones Drew, TJ Houshmandzadeh, Tom Brady, Deshaun Foster, Santana Moss, Greg Jennings, Vernand Morency, Byron Leftwich, Dallas Clark

Team 14: Peyton Manning, Thomas Jones, Michael Turner, Jamal Lewis, Santonio Holmes, Darrell Jackson, Jason Witten, Chargers Defense, Earnest Wilford, Brodie Croyle

Team 15: Willis McGahee, Travis Henry, Plaxico Burress, Randy Moss, Tony Gonzalez, Jason Campbell, Jon Kitna, Wes Welker, Eagles Defense, Demetrius Williams

Team 16: Rudi Johnson, Chad Johnson, Terrell Owens, Julius Jones, Vernon Davis, Matt Hasselbeck, Ravens Defense, Chad Pennington, Isaac Bruce, Brandon Jones