These are just the way I see the NFL draft playing out.
1. Detroit Lions - Matthew Stafford - Quarterback Georgia
It was hard to be a Lions fan this past year, the team went 0-16, fired head coach Rod Marinelli and General Manager Matt Millen(thank god.) However the Lions have some major rebuilding to do, so first year front office personnel and first year head coach Jim Schwartz have arguably the most critical draft in Detroit Lions history, and it starts with first pick overall. The "golden rule" in the NFL draft is you never pass on a franchise quarterback unless you already have a franchise quarterback. The question is "Is Matt Stafford a franchise quarterback?" Lord knows that the Lions have been wrong in the past; high draft picks were all but wasted in Joey Harrington, Andre Ware and Chuck Long. The Lions have not had higher echelon Quarterback since Bobby Layne. In 1958, the Lions traded Layne to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Layne responded to the trade by supposedly saying that the Lions would "not win for 50 years," it has been 50 years since the trade, and indeed the Lions have not won a championship in that time. During this period, the Lions have accumulated the worst winning percentage of any team in the NFL, so Matt Stafford is the likely pick but can he shake the curse. The powers that be could also go after one of the top Left Tackles depending on weather one of them ( Smith or Monroe) has an outstanding Combine and Pro day. This is also the Lions so Michael Crabtree is not out of the question, and I believe that Crabtree could wind up being the most successful player to come out of this draft
2. St.Louis Rams - Andre Smith - Tackle -Alabama
The Rams will be looking to solidify their offensive line. The Rams offensive was pretty morbid in 2008 and the massive frame of Andre Smith would go a long way in making holes for Steven Jackson to run through and protecting the blind side of Quarterback Mark Bulger. He will need to show up in tip top shape in the months leading up to the draft as he auditions for pro teams, but he has the potential to be the top overall pick in April. Smith might slide down the Draft board because of character issues, in that case look for Eugene Monroe OT from Virginia or possibly Michael Crabtree as a dark horse pick to punch up the offense.
3. Kansas City Chiefs - Aaron Curry - Linebacker - Wake Forrest
With Patriots front office stud Scott Pioli in charge of the war room, look for Kansas City not to go with the flashy pick of quarterback (Stafford should be off the board and this is too high to draft Sanchez) or wide receiver. Drafting Curry to place pressure on opposing quarterbacks and awake the echoes of Derrick Thomas and Neil Smith. Curry is an every down Linebacker in both the 3-4 and 4-3 defense, he is a great run-stuffer and more than capable of dropping into coverage. Look for Curry to spark a front seven that had the fewest sacks in the league last year, and Pioli to draft a quarterback on day two of the draft ala Matt Cassell and Tom Brady.
4. Seattle Seahawks - Michael Crabtree - Wide out- Texas Tech
The Seahawks might have the top player in the draft fall into their laps with Crabtree. Crabtree can address a need that the Seahawks have had since trading Joey Galloway to the Cowboys in 1999. The wide receiver from Lubbock has displayed his freakish combination of size and skills over the last two seasons picking up back to back Bielinkoff awards and very well could be the Calvin Johnson of this years draft. The addition of Crabtree will also allow Deion Branch to move back into the slot, which is a more natural fit for him and allow Burleson to stretch the field on the opposite side and give room for last years draft pick tight end John Carlson to cross the middle freely. All of which should make Hasselback a very happy camper.
5. Cleveland Browns - Malcom Jenkins - Cornerback - Ohio State
Jenkins is a perfect fit here not only is he a home grown talent from the state of Ohio, but he is the only true shut-down corner on the draft board. Playing opposite Eric Wright with Brandon McDonald as the nickle give the browns a formidable defensive backfield. Of course this all hinges on how Jenkins runs at the Combine. As long as Jenkins 40 time is good enough to play corner and not be relegated to safety then look for Jenkins to come off the board at #5
6. Cincinnatti Bengals - Eugene Monroe - Tackle - Virgina
After releasing Big Willie Anderson last season and possibly losing Stacey Andrews to free agency this off season the Bengals need to find someone to help Levi Jones protect franchise quarterback Carson Palmer. Monroe makes a lot of sense here. At Virginia Monroe comes from a lineage of Tackles including D'brickashaw Fregeson and Branden Alberts. There is a slight chance that the Bengals take Jeremy Maclin if T.J. Houshmanzada goes the route of free agency.
7.Oakland Raiders - Jermey Maclin - Wide out - Missouri
The Raiders had a major red flag last season, the leading receiver from last seasons team was Johnny Lee Higgins with only 22 receptions; that is only 22 more receptions than I had last season. Maclin seems to be the clear choice at the #7 spot. Introducing Maclin to Jamarcus Russell and Darren McFadden could finally mean offensive prosperity for years to come in Oakland.
8. Jacksonville Jaguars - Jason Smith - Tackle - Baylor
Jason Smith is a must for the Jaguars who were decimated by injuries on the offensive line last season. There is a dark horse chance of a wide receiver for Gerrard to throw to but not likely if Crabtree and Maclin are off the board, Harvin would be a reach at #8, expect them to pick up the top tackle available in this O-line rich first round.
9. Green Bay Packers - B.J. Raji - Defensive Tackle - Boston College
With the hire of Dom Capers as defensive coordinator, I believe that the packers will have to address the Defensive Tackle of their future, and Raji is phenomenal talent. When you are switching to the 3-4 defense Capers is know for, you have to start upfront in the middle
10. San Francisco 49ers - Marc Sanchez - Quarterback - USC
This seems to be the direction that the 49ers are going, although there are plenty of needs that can be addressed through the 2009 draft. The Niners feel that Sanchez could be the #1 overall pick. I see shades of Matt Lionart all over again. The Niners are still searching for Joe Montana, and over the past few years they have come up way short. Alex Smith, Ken Dorsey, Gino Carrmazzi, Jim Drunkenmiller and Elvis Grbac were all swing and misses for the Niners. Look for them to take another hack with Sanchez
11. Buffalo Bills - Brian Orakpo - Defensive End - Texas
The Bills will likely grab Lombardi Award winner from Texas Brian Orakpo with the #11 pick. A freakish athlete who has been said to have transformed from Steve Erckle to Arnold Schwarzenegger over his five years at Texas. Orakpo has been tested against big time o-lines like, Ohio State in the Fiesta Bowl, Oklahoma and the rest of the Big 12. I hope the Bills don't place added pressure on him with comparisons of Bruce Smith
12. Denver Broncos - Everette Brown - Linebacker Florida State
Denver could use help from any defensive player at this spot, and look for them to truly take the best player available on the defensive side of the ball. Brown would be a nice fit in the 3-4 and Everette should excel as linebacker opposite D.J. Williams. Broncos may be a little weary of Defensive Lineman from Florida State, they have not had the best track record in the NFL, Travis Johnson, Jammal Reynolds, Corey Simon, Tony Bryant, Andre Wadesworth and and Reinard Wilson all first round "busts" from Florida State
13. Washington Redskins - Aaron Maybin -Defensive End - Penn State
With Jason Taylor getting another year older this off season Maybin might be the perfect pick to get younger in the pass rusher department. The Redskins could also use some youth on the offensive line, so Michael Oher would not be a shock here, but Maybin's potential is very intriguing
14. New Orleans Saints - Vonte Davis - Cornerback - Illinois
Despite spending alot of money on the defense a year ago in free agency and the draft, the Saint are still lacking on that side of the ball. Vonte Davis is the best cover corner available, and in this Colts fan opinion a must to replace Jason David as starting Right Corner. Plus the Saints were decimated by injuries in the secondary last season and need the depth. Look for them to pick up a linebacker (possibly Darry Beckwith, LSU) in the second round or move up to pick James Laurenitis in the late first or early second round
15. Houston Texans - Chris "Beanie" Wells - Running Back - Ohio State
With the popularity of the "thunder & lighting" running back duos Beanie Wells paired with Steve Slayton could be an interesting pick for Houston. In addition would lay to rest the nay-sayers who still believe that Reggie Bush should have been the pick over "Super Mario." Unless Maybin or Everette Brown are still on the board to go opposite Mario Williams. The only other major need is at safety, however the 15 pick is too high to take William Moore from Missouri. Unless Malcom Jenkins has a poor 40 yard dash time at the Combine causing him to slide don't expect him to slide past Houston, otherwise Ohio State teammate Wells looks like the best pick for Houston
16. San Deigo Chargers - Knowshon Moreno - Running Back - Georgia
I know, I know, the Chargers have LT, but in two straight years the Chargers will have lost back-ups Michael Turner and (more than likely)"Colts-killer" Darren Sproiles. Not to mention Tomlinson has been banged up over the last two seasons and when he did play this last season he did not look like the LT of old. The All-Pro Tomlinson will turn 30 this off-season, which is 64 1/2 in running back years
17. New York Jets - Tyson Jackson - Defensive Line - LSU
If the Jets continue to follow the blue print of division rival New England Patriots than this is the opportunity to pick up their Richard Seymour in Tyson Jackson. In fact Jackson might be the best fit in the whole draft for the Jets, hopefully GM Mike Tannenbaum will not try to grow a brain (there is talk that he likes quarterback Josh Freeman) and continue to just keep doing what the Patriots did. Ball State quarterback Nate Davis could be a nice fit here in round 2
18. Chicago Bears - Percy Harvin - Wide out - Florida
The Bears desperetly need some offensive firepower to go with Hester and Tulane Alum Matt Forte, and Percy Harvin would slide into the line up nicely. In addition Harvin could help to shoulder some of Hester's return duties (you can't have your main offensive weapon twist an ankle on a punt return.) Ideally a "longer" bigger possesion receiver would give quarterback Kyle Orton a more balanced receiving corps to complaiment Tight End Greg Olson. If a top flight Wideout is not availible look for the Bears to go after a speed rush defensive end
19. Tampa Bay Bucs - Brian Cushing - Linebacker - USC
New Head coach Raheem Morris will probably draft on the Defensive side of the ball and one of the USC linebackers make a lot of sense. Brian Cushing has the right balance of pursuit speed, tackling ablity and a nose for getting to the ball. Cushing will be groomed to replace Derrick Brooks and form a young linebacking nuclueous of Cate June and Barrett Ruud. However the Bucs have been anything but conventional the past year, firing head coach Jon Gruden. Promoting relativly unknown and unproven Morris who only a month prior to being named head coach was just the Defensive backs coach. Then the Bucs cut loose of starting quarterback Jeff Garcia. So who knows what the Bucs will do on draft day
20. Detroit Lions (via Dallas) - Michael Oher - Tackle - Ole Miss
The Lions went out and got themselves a "franchise quarterback" now they have to go out and do the right thing and protect his blindside. Oher could wind up being the best lineman taken in the draft, he has all the tools and would have been a first round pick had he come out last year. Oher is also the most polished of the offensive tackle first round probables. There is also a slight chance that Detroit flips the script and takes a Tackle with the first overall pick and goes fishing for a quarterback with the 20th pick or 33rd pick where Josh Freeman and Nate Davis should still be avalible
21. Philadelphia Eagels - William Moore - Safety - Missouri
The Eagles have a luxuary of taking the best player avalible and I believe they will get younger at Safety, where Brian Dawkins is getting a little long in the tooth. William Moore could step in nicely for Dawkins. The Eagles might also go with Brandon Pettigrew to bolster there passing attack, and yet another possiblity is to take a running back to take some of the pressure off of Westbrook (probably elongating Westbrooks career.) Watch for the Eagles to take the top talent on the board regardless of position
22. Minnesota Vikings - Josh Freeman - Quarterback - Kansas State
Needless to say Gus Freortte is not leading anyone to the playoffs, Freeman is a 6 foot 6 inch 245 pound strong armed quarterback who fill the void that the Vikings have had at quarterback since Daunte Culpepper (who was 6-4 and 250lbs when he was drafted.) The Vikings are truly just one piece away from making a serious run at the Super Bowl. The only problem is Freeman might not be around at the 22nd pick, if his stock continues to rise
23. New England Patriots - Rey Maualuga - Linebacker - USC
The only other person who could help the Patriots linebacking corps is an AARP salesmen. John McCain thinks the Patriots linebackers are old, with Tedy Brushi at age 37 and a victim of having a hole in his heart, Junior Seau is on the wrong side of 40, Mike Vrabel and Larry Izzo are both 35, and the youthful Adalious Thomas will only be 33 years old when the season starts. Mauluga and last years first round pick Jerrod Mayo will set the path for the Patriots of the future. Last year had James Laurnitus come out as a junior the Patriots were very interested so if Mauluga is off the board look for Belichek to pull the trigger on the "Road Warrior."
24. Atlanta Falcons - Brandon Pettigrew - Tight End - Oklahoma State
The Falcons might find Pettigrew fall into their lap at the 24 spot. Justin Peelle and Ben Hartstock are good back ups but not NFL starting tight ends, and every young quarterback like Matt Ryan could use a security blanket tight end to dump the ball in the flat to when the defense blitzes or there is nothing open downfield. The Falcons roster looks like it might get shaken up a bit with Keith Brooking, Lawyer Milloy and Michael Boley all are free agents, so if Pettigrew is gone or Atlanta picks up a free agent tight end watch for the Falcons to address one of these free agent losses
25. Miami Dolphins - Clint Sintim - Linebacker - Virgina
Look for the Tuna to go after a linebacker with the Dolphins first round pick. Clint Sintim would be a perfect fit to go with Channing Crowder and Joey Porter in the linebacking corps. Sintim can play the run, drop into coverage and rush the passer. One of the USC linebackers (Cushing, Mauluga or Clay Matthews) could be taken at this spot or possibly a recvier to compliment Ted Ginn like Darius Heyward-Bey from Maryland.
26. Baltimore Ravens - Darius Heyward-Bey - Wide out - Maryland
I think the Ravens will snag the local boy from College Park, Maryland receiver Darius Heyward-Bey. Quarterback Joe Flaaco will be able to utilize the speedster much more then he was used in his college career. Look for John Haurbaugh to address depth on the defensive side of the ball in rounds 2 and 3
27. Indianapolis Colts - Perria Jerry - Defensive Tackle - Ole Miss
I am not sure who Bill Polian will take, I just know that it will be the right pick no matter how absurd it seems on draft day. For the fifth year in a row I am looking for the Colts to draft a big run-stuffing Defensive Tackle. In '07 I wanted to Alan Branch Polian selected A-Gon (Polian 1- Chris zero), in '06 I wanted John McCargo Colts selected Joseph Addai (Polian 2-0), I liked Mike Patterson in '05 and Polian drafts Marlin Jackson (Polian 3-0), in '04 I was sure the Oregon's Junior Siavii (who???) was the answer however Polian strikes again scoring Bob Sanders after trading down to the second round. Look for Polian to snatch Wide out Darius Heyward-Bey if the Ravans pass on him.
28. Philadelphia Eagels (via Carolina) - Eben Britton - Tackle - Arizona
The Eagles will likely take this oppertunity to get younger and some depth at the Offensive line. Britton is diamond in the rough that could use some polishing behind Tra Thomas and Jon Runyon. If Lito Shepperd leaves via free agency, Reid and the Eagles might go after a replacement with this pick
29. New York Giants - Clay Matthews - Linebacker - USC
Due to Michael Strahan retiring the G-men moved Mathais Kiwinuka from outside linebacker to defensive end. Matthews will fit in the Giants depth chart nicely
30. Tennessee Titans - Larry English - Defensive End - Northern Illinois
Larry English dominated opposing teams in the MAC over the last two years. He was named MAC player of the year in '08 and '07. English could add some much needed youth and depth to the Titans Defensive line. English should slide right into the Titans 4-3 scheam and right away be able to put pressure on the quarterback. If one of the top recivers slips down to Tennessee don't be suprised to see them jump all over that pick
31. Arizona Cardinals - Lesean McCoy - Running Back - Pitt
Arizona's offense was hitting on all cylinders at the end of last year, however Edgerain James is getting older and grumbling about being traded out of the dessert. McCoy would provide a nice one-two punch with short-yardage star Tim Hightower. At the end of round one, with no glaring holes, the Cardinals can take the best availble player
32. Pittsburgh Steelers - Max Unger - Offensive Line - Oregon
With the loss of All-Pro guard Alan Faneca a year ago and the enevidable roster fall out (Max Starks, Marvel Smith, and Chris Kemoeatu are all set to hit the open market) that goes along with winning the Super Bowl. Max Unger "Mr. Versitlity" ,as he was coined after starting all five positions on the offensive line, will fit into the smashmouth style of the Steelers
Friday, February 20, 2009
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Indianapolis Colts Draft Day Possiblities
Colts Picks by Round: 1st(27)
2nd(59)
3rd(91)
4th
5th
6th
7th
plus any compensatory picks that may be awarded
Colts Draft NeedsUrgent:
Two quick run-stuffing starting defensive tackles. Quinn Pitcock unexpectingly retired before last season, Starter Ed Johnson was released in the first half of last season and Darrell Reid got into some off the field issues.
Peria Jerry, Ole Miss - First Round
Rated the #2 Defensive Tackle in the draft behind Boston College's B.J. Raji. Jerry is a first-team All-American and All-Southeastern Conference. Top-tier NFL prospect. The soul of a resurgent Ole Miss team that closed the regular season with an 8-4 record and a berth in Cotton Bowl against Texas Tech on Jan. 2.
Sen'Derrick Marks, Auburn - Round 2-3
Auburn's defense, while always stellar, is looking dominant in 2008 and Marks is a big reason why. He is the anchor of an impenetrable defensive line that makes the Tigers almost impossible to run on. At 6'1'' and 295 pounds, Marks is not one of those interior linemen who just takes up space on the line and causes havoc with his size. Instead, Marks is a great athlete who can use his relative agility to be a force against both the run and the pass. He can run under 4.9 in the 40. NFL teams that want a huge space-eater in the middle will pass, but athletic linemen seem to be more and more valued with the passing of time.
Evander "Ziggy" Hood, Missouri - Round 2-3
Very athletic for an interior lineman. Displays quickness, balance and agility and is extremely hard to knock off his feet. One-gap penetrator who has good swim and spin moves. Not huge or powerful, he's strictly a one gap player who at times gets engulfed by bigger lineman. Hood is an ideal three-technique, in a Tampa-two scheme that the Colts run.
Jarron Gilbert, San Jose State
Gilbert is a freakish athlete who has gained notariaty in his youtube video of jumping out of a pool in 3 feet of water. More of a defensive end in shape of Robert Mathis but has impressive power, and moved to defensive tackle midway through his junior year. Gilbert has put the time in the time in the weight room, with a squat 635lbs and a deadlift of 655lbs. Father Darren Gilbert played Offensive Tackle for the New Orleans Saints.
Roy Miller, Texas
Big, physical and explosive four-year defensive tackle. Miller was one of the strongest members of the UT squad, he benched 500 lbs, squatted 625 lbs and power cleaned 365 lbs. Miller also was able to earned Fiesta Bowl Defensive MVP honors .
Marlon Favorite, LSU
Favorite was a leader of one of the finest defenses of the last few years. At plus 300lbs Favorite is a true run-stopper with a powerful expolsion off the snap. Favorite is also considered to be a very talanted rapper
An offensive guard so Mike Pollack can slide over to be the future at Center. The likelyhood that the will be able to re-sign Jeff Saturday. Bill Polian addressed the Center position in last years draft with selections of Mike Pollack, Steve Justice and Jamey Richard. However this will leave a hole at the Guard spot.
Herman Johnson, LSU
At 6 feet 7 inches and 349lbs Johnson or "Big House" has drawn favorable comparsions to Leonard Davis of the Dallas Cowboys. Johnson has tremendous upside and could be a steal if the Colts could grab him in the end of the second round, or possibly package some picks together to move up to the 35-40 pick. Could be the perfect piece of the offensive line puzzle to create holes for former teamate Joseph Addai on the goal line. With Pollock and Ugoh, Johnson could keep Peyton Manning standing upright for years to come.
Tyronne Green, Auburn
Green is a very solid guard who improved his draft stock with a strong showing at the Senior Bowl. Green looks to be this years best offensive linemen from a school who has produced first round picks in the last three years from that line. Green could fall to the Colts in the 3rd or 4th round.
Cedric Dockery, Texas
Dockery was one of the horses that made one of the NCAA's more prolific offenses go. Dockery checks in at 6 feet 3 inches and 320 lbs. Dockery looks to have completly rehabiltated his right knee after a MCL tear. Cedric had a very solid perfomance in the East-West Shrine game in January.
Louis Vasquez, Texas Tech
Also a particpant in the East-West Shrine game Vasquez had a phenomal 2008. He helped his team to a #1 ranking until losing to Oklahoma and running the most exciting offenses of '08 season in which Vasquez did not allow a single sack. With a 6 feet 5 inch frame Louis is not a finesse blocker, he has power at the combine in Indy he showed off that power bench pressing 225lbs 39 times.
A right offensive tackle. Tony Ugoh looks to have the left tackle spot locked down for years to come, however Ryan Diem is entering his 30's and the Colts have no depth at the tackle position. Look for Polian to possibly address a tackle in the mid- rounds of the draft.
Troy Kropog, Tulane
Troy is an intriging pick because of his flexablity on the field. Kropog is an athletic 6'6" 317lb tackle who can play on both sides as well as in the middle at guard. A very intellagent player who could fill multiple needs and add depth to the O-line. The Colts could find Kropog slip into the late 3rd or even the 4th round in this very deep offensive tackle draft.
Alex Boone, Ohio State
Boone certainly looks the part of an NFL offensive linemen, at 6'8" and 320lbs, long hair and goatee. Boone has not yet lived up to his high school billing as greatest O-line prospect since Robert Gallery. However more than adaquete Left Tackle who will probably have to move to right tackle in the NFL. Boone has found a little trouble off the field that could cause him to slide into the thrid or fourth rounds. Boone was arrested for the second time involving alcohol.
Maurice Miller, Ole Miss
Miller is a 6'4" 345lb tackle from Ole Miss opposite first round projection Michael Oher. Miller and Oher anchored the O-line that paved the way for 186 rushing yards per game. Miller could fall to the 4th or 5th round.
Strong Needs:
A wide receiver to replace Marvin Harrison to go with Reggie Wayne and Anthony Gonzalez. Harrison's health and productivity have been deterateing over the past two seasons. Look for Polian to either prepare for the future with a young reciver or to release Harrison and find a suitable replacement that can contribute right away.
Darrius Heyward-Bey, Maryland
Heyward-Bey is more along the lines of your typical draft diamond in the rough. His excellent speed will translate into a great forty-yard dash time at the combine, which will inevitably lead to a rapid increase of his draft stock.
Percy Harvin, Florida
At Florida, Percy Harvin was regarded as one of the most dangerous players in college football, possessing perhaps the quickest first step in college football. He is built alot like Carolina's Steve Smith with similar speed, but was utilized more as an H-Back under Urban Meyer. He will need to work on route running to becomre an elite wideout.
Hakeem Nicks, North Carolina
A 6'1" physical wide out who make another nice target for Peyton Manning. The Acc's leading reciver and superb route runner with exceptional athletisim and hands.
Mohamed Massaquoi, Georgia
The 6-2, 205 pounds Flanker is destine to play in the NFL given that the attributes he brings to the table are what most scouts are looking for in a wide receiver. Massaquoi, who possesses a prototypical receiver's frame, has excellent body control and shows good quickness off the line. Mohamed's size also makes it difficult for corners to cover him effectively, his long arms making him an especially dangerous target inside the red zone. And though at times he can drop a pass or two, Massaquoi is capable of making the impossible circus catch as well.
Louis Murphy, Florida
Another in the line of talented Florida receivers, Murphy hopes to change the group's poor reputation among NFL scouts. Despite his good size and great speed (ran anchor on state-winning 4x400 relay team in high school), Florida's other speedy playmakers overshadow Murphy's attributes and prevent him from putting up big numbers.
Jauquin Iglesias, Oklahoma
This wideout from Oklahoma is a saavy route runner, who reads coverages exceptional well and has knack for getting open. He has very relible hands and can be used as a returner as well as a wideout. Iglesias is not afraid to go over the middle and will fight for extra yardage.
Brian Robiskie, Ohio State
Possibly the smoothest route runner in the draft and should be one of the most prepared wideouts in the draft since father Terry Robinskie has been a NFL receivers coach for almost two decades. A very solid athlete however might be closer to his ceiling of talent than other wideouts in the draft.
run-stuffing middle linebacker are strongly needed.
Jason Phillips, TCU
Darry Beckwith, LSU
Morris Wooten, Arizona State
Jasper Brinkley, South Carolina
Moderate:
A fourth defensive end are also needed.
Kriston Pittman, LSU
Tim Jamison, Michigan
Maurice Evans, Penn State
Colts Draft BoardFirst Round:
Peria Jerry DT Mississippi
James Laurinaitis MLB Ohio State
Percy Harvin WR Florida
Eben Britton OT Arizona
Darrius Heyward-Bey WR Maryland
Tyson Jackson DT LSU
Max Unger C Oregon
Second Round:
Ron Brace DT Boston College
Evander Hood DT Missouri
Jarron Gilbert DT San Jose State
Juaquin Iglesias WR Oklahoma
SenDerrick Marks DT Auburn
Phil Loadholt OT Oklahoma
Herman Johnson OL LSU
Third Round:
Fenuki Tupou OT/OG Oregon
Andy Levitre OG Oregon State
Terrance Taylor DT Michigan
Dorrell Scott DT Clemson
Brian Robiske WR Ohio State
Fourth Round:
Aaron Kelly WR Clemson
Louis Vasquez OG Texas Tech
Maurice Miller OT Ole Miss
2nd(59)
3rd(91)
4th
5th
6th
7th
plus any compensatory picks that may be awarded
Colts Draft NeedsUrgent:
Two quick run-stuffing starting defensive tackles. Quinn Pitcock unexpectingly retired before last season, Starter Ed Johnson was released in the first half of last season and Darrell Reid got into some off the field issues.
Peria Jerry, Ole Miss - First Round
Rated the #2 Defensive Tackle in the draft behind Boston College's B.J. Raji. Jerry is a first-team All-American and All-Southeastern Conference. Top-tier NFL prospect. The soul of a resurgent Ole Miss team that closed the regular season with an 8-4 record and a berth in Cotton Bowl against Texas Tech on Jan. 2.
Sen'Derrick Marks, Auburn - Round 2-3
Auburn's defense, while always stellar, is looking dominant in 2008 and Marks is a big reason why. He is the anchor of an impenetrable defensive line that makes the Tigers almost impossible to run on. At 6'1'' and 295 pounds, Marks is not one of those interior linemen who just takes up space on the line and causes havoc with his size. Instead, Marks is a great athlete who can use his relative agility to be a force against both the run and the pass. He can run under 4.9 in the 40. NFL teams that want a huge space-eater in the middle will pass, but athletic linemen seem to be more and more valued with the passing of time.
Evander "Ziggy" Hood, Missouri - Round 2-3
Very athletic for an interior lineman. Displays quickness, balance and agility and is extremely hard to knock off his feet. One-gap penetrator who has good swim and spin moves. Not huge or powerful, he's strictly a one gap player who at times gets engulfed by bigger lineman. Hood is an ideal three-technique, in a Tampa-two scheme that the Colts run.
Jarron Gilbert, San Jose State
Gilbert is a freakish athlete who has gained notariaty in his youtube video of jumping out of a pool in 3 feet of water. More of a defensive end in shape of Robert Mathis but has impressive power, and moved to defensive tackle midway through his junior year. Gilbert has put the time in the time in the weight room, with a squat 635lbs and a deadlift of 655lbs. Father Darren Gilbert played Offensive Tackle for the New Orleans Saints.
Roy Miller, Texas
Big, physical and explosive four-year defensive tackle. Miller was one of the strongest members of the UT squad, he benched 500 lbs, squatted 625 lbs and power cleaned 365 lbs. Miller also was able to earned Fiesta Bowl Defensive MVP honors .
Marlon Favorite, LSU
Favorite was a leader of one of the finest defenses of the last few years. At plus 300lbs Favorite is a true run-stopper with a powerful expolsion off the snap. Favorite is also considered to be a very talanted rapper
An offensive guard so Mike Pollack can slide over to be the future at Center. The likelyhood that the will be able to re-sign Jeff Saturday. Bill Polian addressed the Center position in last years draft with selections of Mike Pollack, Steve Justice and Jamey Richard. However this will leave a hole at the Guard spot.
Herman Johnson, LSU
At 6 feet 7 inches and 349lbs Johnson or "Big House" has drawn favorable comparsions to Leonard Davis of the Dallas Cowboys. Johnson has tremendous upside and could be a steal if the Colts could grab him in the end of the second round, or possibly package some picks together to move up to the 35-40 pick. Could be the perfect piece of the offensive line puzzle to create holes for former teamate Joseph Addai on the goal line. With Pollock and Ugoh, Johnson could keep Peyton Manning standing upright for years to come.
Tyronne Green, Auburn
Green is a very solid guard who improved his draft stock with a strong showing at the Senior Bowl. Green looks to be this years best offensive linemen from a school who has produced first round picks in the last three years from that line. Green could fall to the Colts in the 3rd or 4th round.
Cedric Dockery, Texas
Dockery was one of the horses that made one of the NCAA's more prolific offenses go. Dockery checks in at 6 feet 3 inches and 320 lbs. Dockery looks to have completly rehabiltated his right knee after a MCL tear. Cedric had a very solid perfomance in the East-West Shrine game in January.
Louis Vasquez, Texas Tech
Also a particpant in the East-West Shrine game Vasquez had a phenomal 2008. He helped his team to a #1 ranking until losing to Oklahoma and running the most exciting offenses of '08 season in which Vasquez did not allow a single sack. With a 6 feet 5 inch frame Louis is not a finesse blocker, he has power at the combine in Indy he showed off that power bench pressing 225lbs 39 times.
A right offensive tackle. Tony Ugoh looks to have the left tackle spot locked down for years to come, however Ryan Diem is entering his 30's and the Colts have no depth at the tackle position. Look for Polian to possibly address a tackle in the mid- rounds of the draft.
Troy Kropog, Tulane
Troy is an intriging pick because of his flexablity on the field. Kropog is an athletic 6'6" 317lb tackle who can play on both sides as well as in the middle at guard. A very intellagent player who could fill multiple needs and add depth to the O-line. The Colts could find Kropog slip into the late 3rd or even the 4th round in this very deep offensive tackle draft.
Alex Boone, Ohio State
Boone certainly looks the part of an NFL offensive linemen, at 6'8" and 320lbs, long hair and goatee. Boone has not yet lived up to his high school billing as greatest O-line prospect since Robert Gallery. However more than adaquete Left Tackle who will probably have to move to right tackle in the NFL. Boone has found a little trouble off the field that could cause him to slide into the thrid or fourth rounds. Boone was arrested for the second time involving alcohol.
Maurice Miller, Ole Miss
Miller is a 6'4" 345lb tackle from Ole Miss opposite first round projection Michael Oher. Miller and Oher anchored the O-line that paved the way for 186 rushing yards per game. Miller could fall to the 4th or 5th round.
Strong Needs:
A wide receiver to replace Marvin Harrison to go with Reggie Wayne and Anthony Gonzalez. Harrison's health and productivity have been deterateing over the past two seasons. Look for Polian to either prepare for the future with a young reciver or to release Harrison and find a suitable replacement that can contribute right away.
Darrius Heyward-Bey, Maryland
Heyward-Bey is more along the lines of your typical draft diamond in the rough. His excellent speed will translate into a great forty-yard dash time at the combine, which will inevitably lead to a rapid increase of his draft stock.
Percy Harvin, Florida
At Florida, Percy Harvin was regarded as one of the most dangerous players in college football, possessing perhaps the quickest first step in college football. He is built alot like Carolina's Steve Smith with similar speed, but was utilized more as an H-Back under Urban Meyer. He will need to work on route running to becomre an elite wideout.
Hakeem Nicks, North Carolina
A 6'1" physical wide out who make another nice target for Peyton Manning. The Acc's leading reciver and superb route runner with exceptional athletisim and hands.
Mohamed Massaquoi, Georgia
The 6-2, 205 pounds Flanker is destine to play in the NFL given that the attributes he brings to the table are what most scouts are looking for in a wide receiver. Massaquoi, who possesses a prototypical receiver's frame, has excellent body control and shows good quickness off the line. Mohamed's size also makes it difficult for corners to cover him effectively, his long arms making him an especially dangerous target inside the red zone. And though at times he can drop a pass or two, Massaquoi is capable of making the impossible circus catch as well.
Louis Murphy, Florida
Another in the line of talented Florida receivers, Murphy hopes to change the group's poor reputation among NFL scouts. Despite his good size and great speed (ran anchor on state-winning 4x400 relay team in high school), Florida's other speedy playmakers overshadow Murphy's attributes and prevent him from putting up big numbers.
Jauquin Iglesias, Oklahoma
This wideout from Oklahoma is a saavy route runner, who reads coverages exceptional well and has knack for getting open. He has very relible hands and can be used as a returner as well as a wideout. Iglesias is not afraid to go over the middle and will fight for extra yardage.
Brian Robiskie, Ohio State
Possibly the smoothest route runner in the draft and should be one of the most prepared wideouts in the draft since father Terry Robinskie has been a NFL receivers coach for almost two decades. A very solid athlete however might be closer to his ceiling of talent than other wideouts in the draft.
run-stuffing middle linebacker are strongly needed.
Jason Phillips, TCU
Darry Beckwith, LSU
Morris Wooten, Arizona State
Jasper Brinkley, South Carolina
Moderate:
A fourth defensive end are also needed.
Kriston Pittman, LSU
Tim Jamison, Michigan
Maurice Evans, Penn State
Colts Draft BoardFirst Round:
Peria Jerry DT Mississippi
James Laurinaitis MLB Ohio State
Percy Harvin WR Florida
Eben Britton OT Arizona
Darrius Heyward-Bey WR Maryland
Tyson Jackson DT LSU
Max Unger C Oregon
Second Round:
Ron Brace DT Boston College
Evander Hood DT Missouri
Jarron Gilbert DT San Jose State
Juaquin Iglesias WR Oklahoma
SenDerrick Marks DT Auburn
Phil Loadholt OT Oklahoma
Herman Johnson OL LSU
Third Round:
Fenuki Tupou OT/OG Oregon
Andy Levitre OG Oregon State
Terrance Taylor DT Michigan
Dorrell Scott DT Clemson
Brian Robiske WR Ohio State
Fourth Round:
Aaron Kelly WR Clemson
Louis Vasquez OG Texas Tech
Maurice Miller OT Ole Miss
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Your 2009-10 Indiana Hoosiers
Christian Watford - Small Forward -
Hometown: Birmingham, Alabama -Shades Valley H.S.
Ht: 6'8" Wt: 215
Watford has that quintessential wing-type frame with long arms and overall great length that college coaches covet. He plays hard at both ends of the floor and he's very sound at help defense and rebounding despite his wiry frame. He is a very good shooter and he is very comfortable playing on the perimeter. He needs to work on his ball skills. While he has a very good basketball body, he needs to want to get more active and aggressive on the glass and in the paint.
Bawa Muniru - Center -
Hometown: Durham, NC -Mount Zion Christian Academy
Ht: 6'11" Wt: 255
A man-child inside. He is powerful around the rim and has a great body. People tend to come at him and bounce off when he is attacking. He is a good shot blocker and rebounds well. A lot of his points come off other people's misses.
Maurice Creek - Shooting Guard -
Hometown: Temple Hills, MD - Hargrave Military Academy (VA)
Ht: 6'5" Wt: 190
Creek has very good size and length which makes him a standout on the perimeter. He can create his own shot off the bounce despite the fact that he does not have great explosion or quickness. However, he seems to have reverted to relying almost exclusively on 3-point shots. Creek has range to hit the 3, but he needs to improve his consistency form behind the arc to rank justify the amount of 3s that he takes now. He can locate open teammates but he seems to concern himself with scoring the ball more than playing an all-around game.
Bobby Capobianco -Power Forward -
Hometown: Loveland, OH - Loveland H.S.
Ht: 6'8" Wt: 230
Capobianco loves to get into the paint and mix it up, looking to initiate contact at every opportunity. This fondness for physical play makes him a tough player to officiate, as the line between an offensive and defensive foul becomes very blurry when Capobianco takes the hardwood. He does not have great athleticism, but any lack of explosion quickly falls to the wayside due to his intense level of effort. He can face the basket in the mid-range area, but he needs to continue to improve this part of his game. Capobianco will simply out-work more athletically gifted players for rebounds and will score points by wearing down thin post players. He does not have the great bounce to block shots in or out of his area; therefore he needs to rely on position and out-smarting players when he guards them.
Derek Elston - Power Forward
Hometown: Tipton, IN - Tipton H.S.
Ht: 6'8" Wt: 210
Derek Elston is a warrior. Ask this kid to run through a brick wall and he will do it. Elston is tough, physical and loves contact. He dives on the floor and plays the game with a football mentality. Elston is fairly skilled and can trail the break and hit 3's with regularity. While in high school, he scores with his back to the basket because of his physicality, he will need to work on his post game to be an effective low post scorer in college. He will always give you great effort and in a lot of ways, that is his greatest asset at this point.
Jordan Hulls -Point Guard -
Hometown: Bloomington, IN - Bloomington H.S. South
Ht: 6'0" Wt: 170
Unsung hero on nation's best 17 & Under AAU program this spring. Jordan's basketball knowledge and savvy rival anyone he will come up against. Extremely smooth with the ball and can make pinpoint passes with ease. On this team he is a doubledigit assist man. Speed is fine and he can play comfortably at a varied of paces. Although he thinks pass first he has the ability to knock down the when left unguarded.
Hometown: Birmingham, Alabama -Shades Valley H.S.
Ht: 6'8" Wt: 215
Watford has that quintessential wing-type frame with long arms and overall great length that college coaches covet. He plays hard at both ends of the floor and he's very sound at help defense and rebounding despite his wiry frame. He is a very good shooter and he is very comfortable playing on the perimeter. He needs to work on his ball skills. While he has a very good basketball body, he needs to want to get more active and aggressive on the glass and in the paint.
Bawa Muniru - Center -
Hometown: Durham, NC -Mount Zion Christian Academy
Ht: 6'11" Wt: 255
A man-child inside. He is powerful around the rim and has a great body. People tend to come at him and bounce off when he is attacking. He is a good shot blocker and rebounds well. A lot of his points come off other people's misses.
Maurice Creek - Shooting Guard -
Hometown: Temple Hills, MD - Hargrave Military Academy (VA)
Ht: 6'5" Wt: 190
Creek has very good size and length which makes him a standout on the perimeter. He can create his own shot off the bounce despite the fact that he does not have great explosion or quickness. However, he seems to have reverted to relying almost exclusively on 3-point shots. Creek has range to hit the 3, but he needs to improve his consistency form behind the arc to rank justify the amount of 3s that he takes now. He can locate open teammates but he seems to concern himself with scoring the ball more than playing an all-around game.
Bobby Capobianco -Power Forward -
Hometown: Loveland, OH - Loveland H.S.
Ht: 6'8" Wt: 230
Capobianco loves to get into the paint and mix it up, looking to initiate contact at every opportunity. This fondness for physical play makes him a tough player to officiate, as the line between an offensive and defensive foul becomes very blurry when Capobianco takes the hardwood. He does not have great athleticism, but any lack of explosion quickly falls to the wayside due to his intense level of effort. He can face the basket in the mid-range area, but he needs to continue to improve this part of his game. Capobianco will simply out-work more athletically gifted players for rebounds and will score points by wearing down thin post players. He does not have the great bounce to block shots in or out of his area; therefore he needs to rely on position and out-smarting players when he guards them.
Derek Elston - Power Forward
Hometown: Tipton, IN - Tipton H.S.
Ht: 6'8" Wt: 210
Derek Elston is a warrior. Ask this kid to run through a brick wall and he will do it. Elston is tough, physical and loves contact. He dives on the floor and plays the game with a football mentality. Elston is fairly skilled and can trail the break and hit 3's with regularity. While in high school, he scores with his back to the basket because of his physicality, he will need to work on his post game to be an effective low post scorer in college. He will always give you great effort and in a lot of ways, that is his greatest asset at this point.
Jordan Hulls -Point Guard -
Hometown: Bloomington, IN - Bloomington H.S. South
Ht: 6'0" Wt: 170
Unsung hero on nation's best 17 & Under AAU program this spring. Jordan's basketball knowledge and savvy rival anyone he will come up against. Extremely smooth with the ball and can make pinpoint passes with ease. On this team he is a doubledigit assist man. Speed is fine and he can play comfortably at a varied of paces. Although he thinks pass first he has the ability to knock down the when left unguarded.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Opening Statement
Since this my first blog I guess I will just let you know what I am thinking for this blog. Besides working and spending time with my wife and son most of my time revolves around the sports world. I am an avid College and NFL football fan. I love watching my Indiana Hoosiers on the hardwood, and there may not be a better playoff format then that of March Madness. Sitting the bleachers at Wrigley Field for an afternoon game is like a little slice of heaven here on earth. I have formed a 2 round a week addiction to golf, and dream about playing a round in every state in the union. I have witnessed the World Cup soccer and I am really hoping to take my son to the Chicago Olympics in 2016. So nothing is off limits as a topic, except I know jack about hockey, everything else is on the table. We can talk about my hatred for Duke Basketball , University of Southern Cal football, the Yankees, New England Patriots, Nick Saban, Barry Bonds, Kobe Bryant, Cris Collingsworth, the Houston Astros, and Ohio State. We can always talk about steroids in baseball, the NFL draft, College Basketball is nearing tournament time, were are on the verge of NFL free agency, the NBA season will finally start after the all-star break. Pitchers and catchers report in about 2 weeks except for J.C. Romero. Anything to do with the Big Ten, Indy sports, or national news.
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