Tuesday, April 30, 2013

AFC South Draft Grades

Houston Texans-
Rd. 1: DeAndre Hopkins WR: He can catch the ball. With Andre Johnson aging, 32, Hopkins has the ability to become a future number 1 target for the offense. I think he comes in being the number 2 target.
Rd. 2: D.J. Swearinger S: He should compete for the job day 1. It is either him or Daniel Manning playing along with Ed Reed. He hits and he hits hard, if he sees the field he will more than likely get fined a couple times. He should beat out Manning and play perfectly with Ed Reed, but if he doesn't he adds depth to an aging position.
Rd. 3: Brennan Williams OT: Adds depth to the right side of the line and could become a future starter. He does a good job in the run game because he comes right at you and is physical which suits this offense well. He does not do so well in the passing game because he gets beat by more explosive rushers.
Rd. 3: Sam Montgomery DE: I think this is a steal. They get a player who has a high motor on the field. He is great against the run and can improve as a pass rusher especially with Wade Phillips as defensive coordinator. He will see the field and he adds depth to the position
Rd. 4: Trevardo Williams DE: An explosive edge rusher who fits great with this defense. He will see the field in certain situations. They needed to add depth and they did with these two picks.
Rd. 6: David Quessenberry OL: He has the ability to play guard or tackle. He isn't huge but has the ability to gain leverage with his foot quickness and arm length. Adds depth to the entire line.
Rd. 6: Alan Bonner WR : He is not big or fast but he does run good routes and has good vision with the ball. He adds depth to a position they lack.
Rd. 6: Christopher Jones DT: A tough, relentless player that lacks size and speed. He adds depth but will have to work to see the field.
Rd. 6: Ryan Griffin TE: He is a big possession receiving tight end. Adds depth, but needs to improve to see the field.

Overall Grade: B+

Indianapolis Colts-
Rd. 1: Bjeorn Werner DE: He can see the field from day 1. He can play OLB in the 3-4 and rush the passer and play the run, and when they move to nickel he can play DE. A solid pick and adds depth a defense that needs as much help as they can get.

Rd. 3: Hugh Thornton OG: They needed help on the O-line to protect their franchise QB, Andrew Luck, who was unbelievable last year and he can only get better with a better O-line. A versatile big man who is very physical.

Rd. 4: Khaled Holmes OL: He adds depth, but doesn't fit what the colts are looking for. They want physical guys and Holmes is not that, but adds depth and has the ability to become a starter in the future. 

Rd. 5: Montori Hughes DT: He is massive, 6'4 330. He is powerful and can shed blockers. He got kicked out of Tennessee and has had other off the field issues. If he can stay out of trouble and has time to develop then the Colts found themselves a very good player.
Rd. 6: John Boyett S: Has had injuries to both knees and is undersized, but has great football instincts and he adds depth to the secondary.

Rd. 7: Kerwynn Williams RB: A speed back who is very explosive and can catch out of the backfield. He has homerun ability.

Rd. 7: Justice Cunningham TE: I don't like the pick. They have TEs and had more needs. He isn't too good at much, but is a big target, that can catch and is a competitor.

Overall Grade: C

Jacksonville Jaguars-
Rd. 1: Luke Joekel OT: Number 1 overall on our board. He locks down the tackle position for the Jags. He will probably play his first season at right tackle with Eugene Monroe on the left but it could depend on how they are planning the future of the offensive line.

Rd. 2: Johnathan Cyprien S: A big safety, who can hit and play the entire field. A secondary, that needed help all, found a player who will set the tone and hold down the defense. A great pick to help this secondary improve.

Rd. 3: Dwayne Gratz CB: This was a reach. Gratz was not even the best corner on his team and Wreh-Wilson was still on the board with other better options based on our board. They hit a need with secondary help but we will have to see if he pans out.

Rd. 4: Ace Sanders WR: With Blackmon being suspended, he may see the field earlier than expected. He is a small, speedy, under a 4.4, receiver who should help a return game that did not do well a year ago.

Rd. 5: Denard Robinson RB: They have said they plan to use him as a running back instead of a receiver. They have also said they plan to use him in the return game. He sees the field well and they will try to get him the ball and use him as they see fit. With Blackmon being suspended he may see the field as a slot guy and may be used like a Dexter McCluster.

Rd. 6: Joshua Evans S: He adds depth to the position. He is a big hitter and does well in run support but not a great coverage guy.

Rd. 7: Jeremy Harris CB: Adding depth to a position of need. A big, 6'2, fast,4.49, corner who flies around. He is not a playmaker but does a sufficient job getting to the ball and knocking it down.

Rd. 7: Demetrius McCray CB: Adds depth to a position of need. He is good in run support and playing up on receivers. His problem is letting guys get by him and not being able to recover.

Overall Grade: B

Tennessee Titans-
Rd. 1: Chance Warmack OG: A big time guard who is great in the run game. He should help solidify this offensive line, especially the guard position with Andy Levitre signing in free agency. Chris Johnson should be one happy camper.

Rd. 2: Justin Hunter WR: A big athletic target. He can stretch the field and go up and get the ball. He has great body control and the ability to catch tough passes. He does drop some passes that he should make. If he can add weight and is able to handle physical corners, he can become a stud.

Rd. 3: Blidi Wreh-Wilson CB: A good pick-up here in the draft. He fell to them and they had to take him. Corner was a big need and I see him starting from day one. He was the 13th corner selected and I do not see many better in front of him. He has a good combination of size and speed, 6'1 195, 4.4. He does well in zone and man coverage and plays the run well.

Rd. 3: Zavier Gooden LB: A good player but a bit of a reach. He plays well in coverage and is fast coming off the edge. They have two good OLBs already but he could find some playing time, if they decide to move Akeem Ayers to DE.

Rd. 4: Brian Schwenke OL: They solidified their line in free agency and early in the draft so this is more of a depth pick. But he is nasty, strong player who should start in the future.
Rd. 5: Lavar Edwards DE: A depth pick who should find the field. He is relentless and does well rushing the passer and stopping the rush.

Rd. 6: Khalid Wooten CB: A willing tackler but needs to improve technique. He adds depth to a much needed position.

Rd. 7: Daimon Stafford S: Has the ability to be a playmaker but has much more room to grow. He adds depth.

Overall Grade: B+

Justin Blackmon Suspended

Justin Blackmon WR of the Jacksonville Jaguars has been suspended for the first four games of the NFL season.  This is not the first time he has been in trouble, he was  arrested and suspended at Oklahoma State for a game for driving under the influence (DUI) but, charges were reduced, and before the start of the 2012 season he was arrested for another DUI. The 5th pick in the draft a year ago tallied 64 catches for 865 yards and 5 touchdowns. He came on strong as the season went on. He loses guarenteed money in his contract because of the incident but I doubt that will matter because I do not see them cutting him. The Jaguars used two picks on wide receivers in the draft, Ace Sanders in the 4th and Denard Robinson in the 5th. But, they have said they would use Robinson as a running back and a return man, so they will be struggling at the receiver position to start the year.

San Diego Looking to Build A Dam for Rivers

Some argue that the offensive line play for the San Diego Chargers was the worst in the league last year. They gave up 49 sacks and Philip Rivers was hit hard and often. They have never truly found a replacement for the shocking retirement of Marcus McNeil in 2011.

The Chargers addressed offensive line need in the draft by drafting DJ Fluker at right tackle, but still need help on the left side. While they still need help at guard as well word from Aaron Wilson's twitter account (@ravens insider) Bryant Mckinnie has schedule a visit with the Chargers.

McKinnie, 33, is looking to get paid after his excellent play in the Ravens super bowl run. Monday, he visited with the Dolphins who are still looking to replace the departure of Jake Long who signed with the Rams. But, now that he is supposedly leaving Miami without a contract, it looks like the next stop is San Diego. I am sure Rivers will be recruiting harder than ever to have this man protecting his blind side.


Monday, April 29, 2013

Bengals Draft Even Better?

The Cincinatti Bengals announced Monday afternoon that they have resigned their 2009 1st round pick to a very team friendly 3 year 18 million dollar contract. The Bengals 6th overall pick gets 5 million guaranteed and his salary cap numbers are 6 million, 5.2 million and  6.8 million.

Andre Smith was ranked as the 4th best tackle in his prime by NFL.com. He ranks behind Sebastian Vollmer, Jake Long and Phil Loadholt. Considering both Vollmer and Gosder Cherilus both got close to 7 million a year, the Bengals get Smith at a discount at just 6 million a year. The Bengals knew they had a deal in place before the draft, which allowed the Bengals to focus elsewhere.


AFC North Draft Grades

Baltimore Ravens:

Rd. 1: Matt Elam: Elam was my 2nd highest rated safety behind Vaccaro. My only real knock on Elam is he is only 5'10, while he possesses average size being 208. In a division that now has the Bengals with Gresham and Eifert, Steelers with Heath Miller and the Browns with Jordan Cameron, he may have a tough time matching up. I think combining him with Michael Huff will help his growth and he will be a starter for a long time.

Rd. 2: Arthur Brown: I love this kids versatility and I think the Ravens will too. He has the ability to play outside backer or inside backer in a 4-3 or inside linebacker in a 3-4. He has excellent athleticism and will give this Ravens team some new added dimensions to its defense.

Rd. 3: Brandon Williams: For me the Ravens are 3-3 with their first 3 picks. Brandon Williams provides depth and competition for Terrence Cody immediately. I think if Williams went to a big school he would have been in discussion as one of the top defensive tackles in this draft.

Rd. 4: John Simon: I am always weary of Ohio St. defensive linemen. Simon has talent but tends to take plays off and his work ethic has question marks. If the Ravens can develop him and help him mature he'll push for time as a rotational player.

Rd. 4: Kyle Juszcyzk: He is a hard-nosed smart player, just what the Ravens love. While I think 4th round is a bit of a reach for a FB, but I can understand the pick. He provides versatility in their backfield.

Rd. 5: Ricky Wagner: This is a great value pick, last season he might have been a top 10 offensive lineman taken. His play dipped a bit this year and that is the reason for his drop off. If the Ravens can get him to his 2011 form they have a steal.

Rd. 6: Kapron Lewis-Moore: He was a captain and leader for Notre Dame's defense along with Manti Te'o. He was injured in the bowl game against Alabama and may sit the season on injured reserved but he'll become a solid starter.

Rd. 6: Ryan Jensen: To be honest I did not know a lot about this guy before the draft but from what I've read there are a lot of positives and could grow into a starter.

Rd. 7: Aaron Mellette: Another kid that if he went to a big school would have been a much higher draft pick. He was the best receiver in FCS.

Rd. 7: Marc Anthony: Mainly a depth pick and will have to complete for a spot on the roster.

Overall Grade: A

Cincinatti Bengals:

Rd. 1: Tyler Eifert: I had Eifert as my 2nd best skilled position player in this draft. If you were looking for a safe pick with the best offensive ball skills in this draft he was the best. Andy Dalton is one happy quarterback and AJ Green knows he'll see less double teams.

Rd. 2: Giovanni Bernard: While he was not the number 1 running back on my board I think he makes sense here. Cincinnati still has the law firm and Bernard will be a nice complementary back.

Rd. 2: Margus Hunt: Some people had him rated as a 1st/2nd rounder, I think because of his rawness late second made more sense. I like this pick for the Bengals and I think he'll be more of an impact player in year 2 or 3.

Rd. 3: Shawn Williams: Another good value pick, I think there were better safeties on the board here but he will be an immediate special teamer and create competition and depth at safety.

Rd. 4: Sean Porter: Porter is a bit small for a linebacker at 229 pounds. He does have talent though if he can get a bit bigger than in time I can see him making an impact right now he is a sub package type player only.

Rd. 5: Tanner Hawkinson: This is one of those picks that I think a team falls in love with a certain type of player. Hawkinson I saw as a 7th rounder or undrafted free agent.

Rd. 6: Rex Burkhead: This is a depth pick and a potential future replacement for when Ben Jarvis-Green-Ellis leaves.

Rd. 6: Cobi Hamilton: Great value, I think he would have been a much higher pick if Wilson was healthy. He'll compete for a spot as the number 4 wide receiver.

Rd. 7: T.J. Johnson: If this was a center they liked then a 7th round pick is an good spot but I had higher rated centers like Braxton Cave.

Overall Grade: B+

Cleveland Browns:

Rd. 1: Barkevious Mingo: Jabaal Shepard and newly acquired Paul Kruger are their starting outside linebackers and I'm not sure Mingo beats either of them for a starting spot. This pick surprised me and I think they could have looked elsewhere or trade back with a team that may have wanted Austin, Milliner or Cooper.

Rd. 3: Leon McFadden: I think this is a good value pick. I heard he may go in the second so a third round pick is good value but I don't think he is the starter they were hoping for along side Haden.

Rd. 6: Jamoris Slaughter: He was hurt this past season and in think would have been a mid round selection. The Browns will have to see how he recovers but he'll have a chance to become their starter at free safety.

Rd. 7: Armonty Bryant: Very raw but has potential could be a steal as a 7th rounder.

Rd. 7:  Garrett Gilkey: Depth pick will be a backup if he makes roster.

Overall Grade: D+

Pittsburgh Steelers:

Rd. 1: Jarvis Jones: When I looked at the incoming rookies I couldn't think of a better fit than Jones and the Steelers. When he slipped to the Steelers pick there was no way they would pass on him.

Rd. 2: Le'Veon Bell: This is another case of a team having an,ayer they fell in love with. I had Bell at a 3rd round grade. When teams stacked the box he really became non existent at times. He has potential and if he learns to hit the hole and not dance he could be the Steelers starter.

Rd. 3: Markus Wheaton: His player comparison is Antonio Brown. No wonder why the Steelers loved this kind so much. He may be the 2nd quickest player in this draft next to Austin. He'll play the slot and be very effective.

Rd. 4: Shamarko Thomas: Absolute steal and another great fit. His size was the reason he slipped but his talent is second round worthy.

Rd. 4: Landry Jones: Jones couldn't have asked for a better place to land in my opinion. He'all play and learn behind Big Ben who has his durability issues.

Rd. 5: Terry Hawthorne: Big, 6'0 , corner who plays physical. Another good fit at a need position.

Rd. 6:  Justin Brown: A big receiver and teammate of Jones. Having Jones there might help in his development.

Rd. 6: Vince Williams: He is a depth pick but has potential at inside linebacker. He is shorter than you'd like at the position but is a good run stopper but must improve in coverage.

Rd. 7:  Nick Williams: This is a depth pick for the DE position in their 3-4 scheme possesses excellent size.

Overall Grade: A-






Bills and Colts Agree on Trade

The Buffalo Bills and Indianapolis Colts have made a rare move doing a player for player swap of town young improving players.

The Colts will trade Jerry Hughes, 24, a former first round pick at outside linebacker to the Buffalo Bills for Kelvin Sheppard, 25, a former 3rd round pick.

Kelvin Sheppard has had 150 tackles and 2 sacks in his two seasons with the Bills. While Hughes had 62 tackles and 5 sacks in his 3 seasons with the Colts. Hughes never truly fit the Colts system and talent wise has a lot of upside. From the look this is a fairly even trade with two teams getting players who better fit their systems.

What Will Tebow Do?

Today the New York Jets  have decided to cut Tim Tebow. After drafting Geno Smith Friday the team was left with six quarterbacks and more than one will have to be the odd man out. This was the first move but I am sure more will follow.

Tebow, now 25, will be looking to play for his 3rd team in just 4 NFL seasons. Prior to the draft the only team that might have possibly wanted Tebow was Jacksonville and while they did not draft any quarterbacks they did sign 2 after the draft.

I believe the only way Tebow remains in this league is if he makes a decision saying he is willing to try a new position. Tight End or a short yardage back may be his way back onto a NFL roster if not this may be the last we see of Tim Tebow in the NFL for a few years.

Sunday, April 28, 2013

Undrafted Free Agent Signings

Quarterbacks:

Matt Scott QB signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars. For not drafting a QB they made out pretty well. Scott is an athletic strong armed quarterback. He is someone they can work with and try to improve his mechanics. He has the ability to become a starter in the future.

Tyler Bray QB signed with the Kansas City Chiefs. He has the best arm in the draft. His problem is his decision making. He tries to make throws that quarterbacks can not throw. He is going to have to learn to read progressions better and not always go for the big play. Andy Reid should be able to help him grow.

Colin Klein QB signed with the Houston Texans. I wonder if they will leave him at quarterback or try and use him as something else. If he stays at qb I think he has a hard time making the roster.

Jordan Rodgers QB signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Brother of Aaron Rodgers, he has a chance to develop and show what he can do. The Jags have no solution at qb unless Gabbert turns his career around.
  
Ryan Griffin QB signed with the New Orleans Saints. They no longer have Chase Daniel and are in need of a back-up.

Running Backs: 

Miquel Maysonet RB signed with the Philadelphia Eagles. A talented running back I thought was going to get drafted. He showed he can play and I think he is going to make this eagles team.

Ray Graham RB signed with the Houston Texans. Graham is a tough runner. I thought he was a good enough back to get drafted. I guess he will have to show the Texans what he can do, and try to make the roster with Arian Foster and Ben Tate.

Cierre Wood RB signed with the Houston Texans. He is going to have to prove himself. I do not think he is better than Graham who they also signed.

Wide Receivers:

 Da'Rick Rodgers WR Signed with the Buffalo Bills. Rodgers is a talent, he is fast and big. He fell out of the draft because of character issues. If he can fix the off the field issues and become a professional then this is a steal. He joins receivers Robert Woods and Marquise Goodwin as rookies.

Mark Harrison WR signed with the Chicago Bears. A big receiver, who can try to use this time to learn from big receivers in Brandon Marshal and Alshon Jeffrey.

Offensive Line:
   
Xavier Nixon OL signed with the Washington Redskins. A top 10 tackle on our board. Surprisingly did not get drafted and goes to a team who has added free agent right tackles but still need depth. He has a chance to compete for the job.

Braxton Cave OL signed with the Cleveland Browns. A top 5 center and he goes undrafted to the browns. He adds depth and has a good chance to make the roster.

Defensive Line:

Kwame Geathers DT has signed with the San Diego Chargers. A big nose tackle who can take up space. He could up keep Manti T'eo from getting blocked.

Linebackers:

Kevin Reddick LB signed with the New Orleans Saints. A Linebacker I had in my top 5 and should be able to make this roster as a back-up. I would not be surprised if he earns playing time.

Chase Thomas LB signed with the New Orleans Saints. The saints add two quality backers. Thomas should also make the team and will have to fight for playing time.

Defensive Backs:

Nickell Robey CB signed with the Buffalo Bills. Robey is small but ran in the 4.4 range. He comes to a Bills team who need depth at the position and can find his way onto the roster.

Robert Lester DB Signed with the Carolina Panthers. A team that needs help at the defensive back position. Lester provides depth and should be able to make the roster.

AFC West Draft Grades


 Denver Broncos:

Rd. 1: Sylvester Williams DT: Good Value here. He could have went in the top 20 with many teams needing a DT. He fell right to the Broncos lap and they couldn’t pass him up. He helps add depth to this D-line who just recently signed Shaun Phillips to play DE.

Rd. 2: Montee Ball RB: They needed a RB who can come in and get reps right away. He is an experienced back and with the Broncos backs often injured he adds depth.

Rd. 3: Kayvon Webster CB: A bit of a reach. I had other players higher than him and other safeties higher. I think both safety and corner are needs and this is the only player they added to add depth. In such a deep class I think they missed out on some quality players.

Rd. 5: Quanterus Smith DE: Possible sleeper, an under the radar player because of his torn ACL a year ago. He won’t have much if any influence on this years defense, but in the future if all goes well I think he can become someone special.

Rd. 5: Tavarres King WR: He ranked as our 96th overall player so at pick 161 this was very good value. A vertical route runner who was productive at Georgia. He should become a better receiver with Peyton as his QB and could find a way into the offense as the 4th receiver and possibly the future if contracts can not be worked out with Decker or Thomas.

Rd. 6: Vinston Painter OT: This is a depth pick. He is big but only started one year at VaTech. I think he ends up playing guard but he must improve his strength.

Rd. 7: Zac Dysert QB: Built and compared to Big Ben, Dysert can move around the pocket. He is a player they will groom. With Peyton Manning at QB I do not think he has a shot a starting... but he should be able to learn how to play the position behind Peyton.

Overall Grade: B-

Kansas City Chiefs:

Rd. 1: Eric Fisher OT: Could not go wrong with the 1st pick. They decided to go with the more athletic of the two tackles atop the board. He will be an impact player right from the start.

Rd. 3: Travis Kelce TE: He is a good TE but I do not think he is better the Tony Moeaki or Anthony Fasano. He may find some playing time and at best adds depth to the position. I do think they could have gotten a player at a need position here like safety or D-line.

Rd. 3: Knile Davis RB: A fast explosive playmaker. He is big and fast and they need depth but he has a fumbling problem. He fumbles more than any RB in the draft.

Rd. 4: Nico Johnson LB: He should find some time next to Derrick Johnson. He adds depth to a position of need

Rd. 5 Sanders Commings CB: A position they do not need. They have 4 quality players. He adds depth in a pass heavy division.

Rd. 6: Eric Kush C: He has the ability to create competition at the position. He has played tackle and adds depth to the entire line. The question is can he play with this level of competition.

Rd. 6: Braden Wilson FB: He is big and built and is willing to hit. He is not afraid to lay blocks and is very physical.

Rd. 7: Mike Catapano DE: Could be a sleeper. He is from Princeton and he has the ability and size to see the field. He had a productive college career and can be a good pass rusher. He’s decent against the run but he will probably see time on passing downs in the future.

Overall Grade: C+

Oakland Raiders:

Rd. 1: D.J. Hayden CB: I like the decision to move down and draft the guy they wanted at pick #3. Hayden would have been the top corner selected if it was not for he life threatening injury. He is fast and has great ball skills and only question is whether he can play like he did before the injury. I love the pick.

Rd. 2: Menelik Watson OT: A very solid pick. He had the ability to go in the first round. The Raider 1st two picks were smart and allowed them the ability to draft value needs early.

Rd. 3: Sio Moore OLB: Another great value pick. He could have gone at the end of the first round. They drafted three needs and got value at them all.

Rd. 4: Tyler Wilson QB: A player who last year was looked at as a top QB. He was injured this year but he is a player who could possibly win the job over Matt Flynn. If not he could sit a year but I do think he will end up being the future of this team.

Rd. 6: Nick Kasa TE: They needed depth at the position and he can help. He is a big target and will see playing time.

Rd. 6: Latavius Murray RB: A big stocky back. He’s quick but not very fast.
Rd. 6: Mychal Rivera TE: Another TE who could find the field as a blocker. Another depth pick for a team that needed to find some more quality players.

Rd. 6: Stacy McGee DT: This being one of their biggest needs, I thought they may address it earlier. He is big and has the size you want but that’s about it. He is not very athletic or quick. He adds depth to a position that needs it.

Rd. 7: Brice Butler WR: He is big and has average speed, running in the 4.5 range. He needs to work on route running and consistently catching the ball.

Rd. 7: David Bass DE: Played well at Missouri Southern but in the shrine game he was not effective raising the question, will he be able to cut it in the NFL. He adds depth to a position that needs it.

Overall Grade: B-

San Diego Chargers:

Rd. 1: D.J. Fluker OT: He should start right from week 1. The offensive line lost most of their players and Fluker is a huge and strong right tackle who will be very good. He will help in both the pass and rush offense.

Rd. 2: Manti Te’o LB: Great value. Te’o fell to the second and he will also start right away. He fits perfectly in this defense and should be one of their best linebackers.

Rd. 3: Keenan Allen WR: A first round type player. He is big, and that is how Philip Rivers likes his receivers. Allen can catch and run, he should be a solid option in this offense.

Rd. 5: Steve Williams CB: A small but fast corner will likely play in the slot. He is not afraid to hit even though he is small. He adds depth to the position and may find the field.

Rd. 6: Tourek Williams DE: A player to add depth at the position. He is a powerful player and will have to work to see the field.

Rd. 7: Brad Sorensen QB: Just a depth pick. I think they could have gone somewhere else and went with more of a need player. I know it is the 7th round but atleast add depth somewhere they need.

Overall Grade: A-

AFC East Draft Grades

These draft grades are based primarily on pre draft value. There is no way to determine how truly bad, good, great a class can be until these players have been in the league a few years.

Buffalo Bills:
Rd. 1: E.J. Manuel: I truly can understand this pick if this was then player the Bills thought could be their future. Doug Marrone runs a read style offense and really needs a player who can run his offense. While the pick was a reach in terms of value, if the Bills truly wanted a quarterback than first round isnthenroute to go with the team friendly contract he gets.

Rd. 2: Robert Woods: I truly love this pick. I have been very high on Woods and thought he would have been a great fit in Baltimore at pick 32. He is a polished route runner with good size and above average speed. His ability to make catches and get open will greatly help Steve Johnson.

Rd. 2: Kiko Alonso: This was a bit of a reach for a second round player. Alsonso is a good player, but has character issues and durability concerns would have dropped him to a 3rd round pick. I think the Cardinals pick of Kevin Minter before them threw off their plans.

Rd. 3: Marquise Goodwin: He is the fastest player in this draft. Goodwin possesses elite speed and wasn't truly used correctly in Texas. Pairing him with TJ Graham gives this offense two very dynamic speed guys in their slot.

Rd. 4: Duke Williams: Duke is a player when could have gone anywhere between the late second to late 4th round. He has talent but also comes with character concerns. In like the Bills taking a chance here.

Rd. 5: Jonathan Meeks: Coming out of high school he wasnratwd by rivals as the 18th best player in the country. Meeks never really lived up to his hype. I think this was a reach pick but clearly the Bills are willing to take a chance on someone with potential.

Rd. 6: Dustin Hopkins: I actually like this pick for the Bills. Yes, they have lots of needs but the Bills ranked 31st in kickoff distance and 28th in field goals made.

Rd. 7: Chris Gragg: Perfect fit for Doug Marrone's style of offense. He is a receiving threat at tight end and will compete for a starting spot.

Overall Grade: B-


Miami Dolphins:
Rd. 1: Dion Jordan: Jordan is a very good edge rusher, bit as Jon Gruden pointed out he has never played 70 snaps. I understand the Dolphins need for an edge rusher along side wake just think they got a steal for the value of then trade though.

Rd. 2: Jamar Taylor: Great value in the second round. Many had him as a top 5 corner and an instant impact player. He has great mechanics and knowledge and will be a starter on opening day.

Rd. 3: Dallas Thomas: Another good pick here. I don't think Thomas is the left tackle to replace Jake Long nor do I think he will play right tackle if Martin moves over but he will compete at guard for a starting spot.

Rd. 3: Will Davis: This was a bit of a reach, but he plays the style of defense the Dolphins love. Will take time but could turn into an starter one day.

Rd. 4: Jelani Jenkins: The Dolphins love keeping home grown talent. Jenkins has durability issues but a lot of athletic ability. If he can stay healthy he may become a starter down the road.

Rd. 4: Dion Sims: Not really a need because of the Dustin Keller signing but Sims is a very good blocker and above average hands.

Rd. 5: Mike Gillislee: Another Florida kid, I really like what Gillislee brings to the table. I think he tested poorly but plays faster and quicker than his numbers dictated.

Rd. 6: Caleb Sturgis: Want to take a guess where he went to school? Florida.

Rd. 7: Don Jones: They'll covet their undrafted free agents more and I think this kid won't end up making the team.

Overall Grade: B+


New England Patriots:
Rd. 2: Jamie Collins: I had Collins as a third round guy but I can understand falling in love with his athletic ability. He has a history of not working hard and taking plays off. That is not the Patriot way and will have to bide into the Patriots to reach his full potential.

Rd. 2: Aaron Dobson: This is a big Wide Receiver at 6'3 210 with very good hands even if they are undersized. I think there was more now ready wide receivers but in the long run he could really pay off.

Rd. 3: Logan Ryan: I have been pretty high on Logan. I think he plays the ball just as good as any of the corners in this draft.

Rd. 3: Duron Harmon: After analysts have seen tape they all say he is a good prospect but I don't think he was on anyone else's radar and they could have gotten him much later.

Rd. 4: Josh Boyce: He is very physical and a good blocker as a wide receiver. He was TCU's best offensive weapon but the offense was below average.

Rd. 7: Michael Buchanan: Very good value for a 7th round pick. Seems to be that way with most teams in the AFC East. He has good size to be a rotational defensive end and possibly a starter in the future.

Rd. 7: Steve Beauharnais: Love this pick, I thought Beauharnais would go in the 4th. Great value and a player from a school the Patriots clearly love.

Overall Grade: B+


New York Jets:
Rd. 1: Dee Milliner: This was the best player available on my board and also a need for the Jets. He'll face a lot of scrutiny being Revis's replacement, but if he can handle Nick Saban I think he can handle NY.

Rd. 1: Sheldon Richardson: I like the pick but do not love it. There were other larger needs that could have been addressed rather than drafting the #3 ranked defensive tackle on our board.

Rd. 2: Geno Smith: If the Jets knew Geno would be their man I wish they would have addressed offensive line with either 9 or 13. I say that because Mark Sanchez was hit often last year. I think there was value later in the rounds for top rated defensive players.

Rd. 3: Brian Winters: I like this pick, I had winters with a 3rd round grade, so this is the round I saw him going in. He'll have an immediate chance to start in NY.

Rd. 5: Oday Aboushi: Great value pick here for a player in the 5th round they may have found another starter. Aboushi is raw, but has strong potential and comes from a school that produces offensive linemen.

Rd. 6: William Campbell: Not sure I understand drafting a third straight offensive lineman. This team could have used a young safety, edge rusher, tight end or wide receiver.

Rd. 7: Tommy Bohanon: Again second pick in a row I don't understand. To many needs to draft a fullback.

Overall Grade: B


Saturday, April 27, 2013

Broncos add veteran defender

The Denver Broncos have added Shaun Phillips. He is known as a 3-4 outside linebacker, but I believe they will play him at DE to replace Elvis Dumervill. Phillips, who last played in San Diego, has 69.5 sacks, and 20 forced fumbles in his career. The addition of Phillips makes it unlikely the Broncos look to add other veteran DEs like Dwight Freeney and John Abraham.

Patriots get a power back

The New England Patriots have traded RB Jeff Demps and a 7th round draft pick to the Tampa Bay Bucaneers for RB LeGarrette Blount. Blount should help this team in short yard situations. He is a big man. He has had issues fumbling the football and in New England that doesn't bode well, but he if can keep it under control, expect some short yardage carries.

Friday, April 26, 2013

Packers do it again

The Packers traded the 93rd pick in the draft to the Miami Dolphins. The Dolphins selected CB Will Davis.

Same teams different trade

The Packers and 49ers have traded again. This time the Niners received the 88th pick and selected Corey Lemonier.

Jets get a running back

The New York Jets have received Chris Ivory from the Saints for a 4th round pick. The Jets lost Shonn Green to the Titans and RB was a need that they just filled.

Third round trade

The Saints have moved up to the 82nd pick in the draft and selected DT Johnathon Jenkins. The Miami Dolphins will receive picks 106 and 109.

A couple more moves

The Packers trade the 55th pick in the draft to the 49ers who will select TE Vance McDonald.The Packers will receive the 61st pick and the 173rd pick.

The Baltimore Ravens have traded up to get the 56th pick in the second round from Seatle. The Ravens are going to select LB Arthur Brown. The Ravens traded their 2nd (pick 62), 5th(pick 165) and 6th(pick 200) round selections to the Seahawks.

The QB most expected to be selected first, finally goes to...

The New York Jets have added Quarterback Geno Smith. Smith slid out of round one and there were rumors earlier in the day that the Jets wanted to move up. That did not need to happen because he fell to them in the 2nd round.

There racking up

Another trade, this including the Dolphins receiver Davone Bess. He is being traded to the Cleveland Browns. The Browns and Dolphins are swapping picks in the 4th.

Time for Te'o

The San Diego Chargers have traded with the Arizona Cardinals and have selected linebacker Manti Te'o. The Cardinals receive the 45th pick (13th in 2nd round), and the 110th pick (13th in 4th round).

Here it goes again..

After having five trades in the first round, the first trade in the second round came quick. The San Francisco 49ers traded the 2nd(34) pick in the second round to the Tennessee Titans for the 40th pick (7th in 2nd round), 216th pick (10th in 7th round) and a 2014 3rd round pick. The Titans selected WR Justin Hunter to keep him in Tennessee.

Round 2 Mock

Round 2 Mock: These are our predictions for round 2. We have not put in any trades but we do expect some to happen. So here it is..
1(33). Jacksonville Jaguars- Johnthan Banks CB
2(34). San Francisco 49ers- Zach Ertz TE
3(35). Philadelphia Eagles- Geno Smith QB
4(36). Detroit Lions- Menelik Watson OT
5(37). Cincinnati Bengals- Eddie Lacy RB
6(38). Arizona Cardinals- Tank Carradine DE
7(39). New York Jets- Ryan Nassib QB
8(40). Tennessee Titans- Kawann Short DT
9(41). Buffalo Bills- Justin Hunter WR
10(42). Oakland Raiders- Margus Hunt DE
11(43). Tampa Bay Buccaneers- John Jenkins DT
12(44). Carolina Panthers- D.J. Swearinger S
13(45). San Diego Chargers- Jamar Taylor CB
14(46). Buffalo Bills- Manti Te’o LB
15(47). Dallas Cowboys- Jonathan Cyprien S
16(48). Pittsburgh Steelers- Jesse Williams DT
17(49). New York Giants- Damontre Moore DE
18(50). Chicago Bears- Kevin Minter LB
19(51). Washington Redskins- Arthur Brown LB
20(52). New England Patriots- Keenan Allen WR
21(53). Cincinnati Bengals- Sio Moore LB
22(54). Miami Dolphins- Terron Armstead OT
23(55). Green Bay Packers- Montee Ball RB
24(56). Seattle Seahawks- Larry Warford OL
25(57). Houston Texans- Blidi Wreh-Wilson CB
26(58). Denver Broncos- Sam Montgomery DE
27(59). New England Patriots- Darius Slay CB
28(60). Atlanta Falcons- Khaseem Greene LB
29(61). San Francisco 49ers- Tyrann Mathieu CB
30(62). Baltimore Ravens- David Bakhtiari OT

The NFL's New Leading Man

For the last few seasons Aaron Rodgers has been viewed by many as a top quarterback in the NFL. Today he signs a new 5 year 110 million dollar contract that makes him the highest paid player in NFL history. He will receive 40 million guaranteed in the first year and roughly 62.5 in the first 3 years.

Rodgers, who is now 29 years old, has put up incredible numbers since becoming a starter. In the 5 years he has been starting hen is averaging over 4,250 yards, 34 touchdown passes and just over 8 interceptions a season. Rodgers who has now been in the NFL for 9 seasons will enter his 10th as a very, very wealthy individual.

Rumors Swirling in Day 2

Here are some of the story lines heading into tonights 2nd and 3rd round of the NFL draft.

The Chiefs are looking to get Miami's 2nd round pick in exchange for Brandon Albert. Yet, Chris Mortensen says things sound "cold" on that front.

According to Kimberly Jones of the NFL network, Quarterback is not an option for the Jets today. They'll look to select a new quarterback under a new head coach next year. Still think Rex gets his way.

Brian McIntrye of yahoo sports says Jets OT D'Brickashaw Ferguson has restructured his contract creating roughly 5.1 million more in cap space for the former first rounder.

Ian Rapoport of NFLn says the Bucks are looking to trade down in the 2nd round to reacquire some picks lost in the Revis deal.

The Browns and Dolphins are still negotiating a deal to send Davone Bess to Cleveland for a mid round pick. Deadline would be roughly 7:00pm so that he could pass a physical.

La'Rod Stephens-Howling has agreed to a one year deal with the Steelers. The University of Pittsburgh product goes backntonhis college roots according to Jason La Confora.

Jason La Confora tweeted  contract extension has been agreed to between Aaron Rodgers and the Packers making Rodgers highest paid player in NFL history.

For full draft coverage follow @Sully80sports throughout the draft.






Who won the night?

While here at Sullysports we had both ESPN and NFL network going on plus our twitter feed others weren't as lucky. There has been debate for years at which channel does a better job at providing the best draft coverage. While my personal preference is the NFL network because of Mayock's analysis others still enjoy the age old ESPN.

Well wonder no longer as awfulannouncing.com has provided the answers. Between the two analysts Mike Mayock received an A+ to Mel Kiper's B. As for the show itself, the NFL Network received an A, while ESPN received a C+. The website has more in depth reasons and other announcers and the show itself.

Best Available

These are our top players heading into day 2:

  1. Geno Smith QB
  2. Eddie Lacy RB
  3. Manti Te'o LB
  4. Menelik Watson OT
  5. Justin Hunter WR
  6. Zach Ertz TE
  7. Tank Carradine DE
  8. D.J. Swearinger S
  9. Damontre Moore DE
  10. Kevin Minter LB
  11. Kawann Short DT
  12. Arthur Brown LB
  13. Margus Hunt DE
  14. Keenan Allen WR
  15. Ryan Nassib QB
  16. Terron Armstead OT
  17. John Jenkins DT
  18. Johnathan Cyprien S
  19. Robert Woods WR
  20. Sam Montgomery DE
  21. Sio Moore LB
  22. Matt Barkley QB
  23. Jesse Williams DT
  24. Jamar Taylor CB
  25. Larry Warford OG
  26. David Bakhtiari OT
  27. Johnathon Banks CB
  28. Montee Ball RB
  29. Barrett Jones OL
  30. Jamie Collins LB
  31. Quinton Patton WR
  32. Tyler Wilson QB
  33. Gavin Escobar TE
  34. Corey Lemonier DE
  35. Brennan Williams OT
  36. Alex Okafor DE
  37. Blidi Wreh-Wilson CB
  38. Darius Slay CB
  39. David Quessenbury OT
  40. Dwayne Gratz CB
  41. Terrence Williams WR
  42. Cornelius Washington DE
  43. Andre Ellington RB
  44. Brian Schwenke C
  45. David Amerson CB
  46. William Goldson DE
  47. Marcus Lattimore RB
  48. Jordan Reed TE
  49. Jordan Mills OT
  50. Dallas Thomas OL
  51. Landry Jones QB
  52. Khasseem Greene LB
  53. Tyrann Mathieu CB
  54. Jordan Poyer CB
  55. Aaron Dobson WR
  56. Johnathon Hankins DT
  57. Bennie Logan DT
  58. Giovanni Bernard RB
  59. John Simon DE
  60. Brandon Williams DT
  61. Markus Wheaton WR
  62. Robert Alford CB
  63. Brian Winters OG
  64. Shawne Williams S
  65. Kiko Alonso LB
  66. Stedman Bailey WR
  67. Logan Ryan CB
  68. J.J. Wilcox S
  69. Tyler Bray QB
  70. Jawan Jamison RB
  71. Jon Bostic LB
  72. DeVonte Holloman LB
  73. Akeem Spence DT
  74. Mike Glennon QB
  75. Travis Kelce TE
  76. B.W. Webb CB
  77. Michael Buchanan DE
  78. Christine Michael RB
  79. Marquise Goodwin WR
  80. Le’Veon Bell RB
  81. Kevin Reddick LB
  82. Vance Mcdonald TE
  83. Tavares King WR
  84. Johnathan Franklin RB