It has been announced that the St. Louis Rams and Dallas Cowboys have finalized a trade that will send offensive tackle Alex Barron from St. Louis to the Cowboys for linebacker Bobby Carpenter. This is one instance that both teams will come out on the good side of the trade, but I like what the Rams are getting for their defense.
Barron will most likely move into the left tackle position left vacant by the release of Flozell Adams. The Cowboys drafted Sam Young from Notre Dame and it is possible he is moving into the position after he gets his legs under him in the NFL. Dallas also drafted Sean Lee in the second round, and he looks to move into the starting lineup as well. But unless Young can make the transition to the pro game Dallas will be looking to find a long term solution to the left tackle position. Barron has been a solid player but his best years seem to be behind him.
Which is one reason why the Rams drafted Rodger Saffold in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft. They saw him as the bookend to 2009 first round pick Jason Smith and now they have a pair of young tackles they can build their offense around. Now with Carpenter joining former Ohio State teammate James Laurinaitis in the linebacker corps their defense gets a shot of youth that it will need. The Rams defense was horrific in 2009, and Carpenter can help solidify the unit. He never did find his place in Dallas. A fresh start in St. Louis can help him live up to his first round draft billing.
It's not often that a one-for-one trade helps both teams. This one does. I feel that in the long run it will help the Rams more than most people think at this time.
Showing posts with label 2010 NFL Draft. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2010 NFL Draft. Show all posts
Friday, May 7, 2010
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Judged by the Quarterbacks
As it is in every NFL Draft, the marquee players are the quarterbacks. It doesn't matter if they are the highest rated players, or if they are expected to have the most successful careers. The quarterback is the face of the NFL, and when the draft comes around the quarterbacks are caught in the glare.
The 2010 NFL Draft had four quarterbacks that were the focus from the start. Sam Bradford was the 2008 Heisman Trophy winner from Oklahoma, but he missed most of the 2009 season with a serious shoulder injury. Tim Tebow was the 2007 Heisman Trophy winner from Florida and a 2-Time National Champion, but was seen as a system quarterback with flawed mechanics.
Jimmy Clausen was the quarterback of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. That position shines in the spotlight like no other, and with his physical skills Clausen could not carry Notre Dame to the top of college football. Colt McCoy finished his career at Texas as the winningest quarterback in college history, but he came up short in the BCS National Championship, as he suffered a shoulder injury early in the game against Alabama and did not get his chance to win the title.
The questions started to fly as soon a the season ended. Bradford answered his during his pro day workout. His arm strength was there and the accuracy never went away. At the end of the day it was not a question as to whether St. Louis would select him #1 overall, but whether the would have him signed before the draft.
Tebow began working on his throwing motion and shortening his delivery. His pro day workout showed a more compact delivery, but many wondered if he would revert to his old ways under the pressure of an NFL pass rush. He seemed to convince many that he was on his way to becoming an NFL quarterback.
Clausen had an injury of his own to deal with in 2009, a toe injury that was still bothering him during his pro day workout. But his arm strength and accuracy was still there, and he had prospects of going high in the draft. McCoy showed off his arm strength during his pro day workout, and many were seeing his draft stock rise.
On draft day, Bradford was indeed the #1 overall selection by St. Louis. Washington was out of the quarterback derby when the traded for Donovan McNabb. The next teams looking for a quarterback were Cleveland and Buffalo. They both passed. Many were wondering how far down the first round Clausen would fall. Turns out it was a long way.
Denver pulled the big surprise by selecting Tebow #25 overall. Many had Tebow moving into the first round, but it was a surprise that Denver, who has Kyle Orton as the starter and who traded for Brady Quinn in the offseason, would take Tebow in the first round. They traded three draft picks to move back into the round, and in doing so placed even more expectations on the shoulders of Tebow.
Clausen fell into Round 2, going 48th overall to Carolina. Many feel that he may be in the best situation. He is with a team that has Matt Moore at the starting quarterback position, a strong running game, a playmaker in Steve Smith at wide receiver, and a strong offensive line. Clausen has a luxury of being able to wait and learn without the expectations that are being heaped on Bradford and Tebow.
McCoy had to wait until Round 3, going to Cleveland with the 85th overall selection. Mike Holmgren has come out and said that McCoy won't even play in 2010. He is taking the approach that he will be best served by sitting and learning. But if things are not working out for the Browns I wonder if his timetable will get moved up.
I believed going into the draft that Clausen had the best chance for success in the NFL, and I see that happening under the current circumstances of the four quarterbacks. But even with Ndamukong Suh, Gerald McCoy, Eric Berry and others, the 2010 NFL Draft will be seen as a success or failure as the fates of the four quarterbacks develop over the years.
The 2010 NFL Draft had four quarterbacks that were the focus from the start. Sam Bradford was the 2008 Heisman Trophy winner from Oklahoma, but he missed most of the 2009 season with a serious shoulder injury. Tim Tebow was the 2007 Heisman Trophy winner from Florida and a 2-Time National Champion, but was seen as a system quarterback with flawed mechanics.
Jimmy Clausen was the quarterback of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. That position shines in the spotlight like no other, and with his physical skills Clausen could not carry Notre Dame to the top of college football. Colt McCoy finished his career at Texas as the winningest quarterback in college history, but he came up short in the BCS National Championship, as he suffered a shoulder injury early in the game against Alabama and did not get his chance to win the title.
The questions started to fly as soon a the season ended. Bradford answered his during his pro day workout. His arm strength was there and the accuracy never went away. At the end of the day it was not a question as to whether St. Louis would select him #1 overall, but whether the would have him signed before the draft.
Tebow began working on his throwing motion and shortening his delivery. His pro day workout showed a more compact delivery, but many wondered if he would revert to his old ways under the pressure of an NFL pass rush. He seemed to convince many that he was on his way to becoming an NFL quarterback.
Clausen had an injury of his own to deal with in 2009, a toe injury that was still bothering him during his pro day workout. But his arm strength and accuracy was still there, and he had prospects of going high in the draft. McCoy showed off his arm strength during his pro day workout, and many were seeing his draft stock rise.
On draft day, Bradford was indeed the #1 overall selection by St. Louis. Washington was out of the quarterback derby when the traded for Donovan McNabb. The next teams looking for a quarterback were Cleveland and Buffalo. They both passed. Many were wondering how far down the first round Clausen would fall. Turns out it was a long way.
Denver pulled the big surprise by selecting Tebow #25 overall. Many had Tebow moving into the first round, but it was a surprise that Denver, who has Kyle Orton as the starter and who traded for Brady Quinn in the offseason, would take Tebow in the first round. They traded three draft picks to move back into the round, and in doing so placed even more expectations on the shoulders of Tebow.
Clausen fell into Round 2, going 48th overall to Carolina. Many feel that he may be in the best situation. He is with a team that has Matt Moore at the starting quarterback position, a strong running game, a playmaker in Steve Smith at wide receiver, and a strong offensive line. Clausen has a luxury of being able to wait and learn without the expectations that are being heaped on Bradford and Tebow.
McCoy had to wait until Round 3, going to Cleveland with the 85th overall selection. Mike Holmgren has come out and said that McCoy won't even play in 2010. He is taking the approach that he will be best served by sitting and learning. But if things are not working out for the Browns I wonder if his timetable will get moved up.
I believed going into the draft that Clausen had the best chance for success in the NFL, and I see that happening under the current circumstances of the four quarterbacks. But even with Ndamukong Suh, Gerald McCoy, Eric Berry and others, the 2010 NFL Draft will be seen as a success or failure as the fates of the four quarterbacks develop over the years.
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Draft Grades: Washington Redskins
The Washington Redskins went into the 2010 NFL Draft with big questions on offense. Was Jason Campbell the quarterback of the future? Who is going to block for whoever was taking snaps at quarterback? One question was answered before the draft, the other on draft day.
The Redskins traded for Donovan McNabb before the draft, and then traded Campbell to Oakland for a 4th round pick in 2012. The offensive line question was answered with the 4th overall selection, as Washington selected Trent Williams. Many draft experts had Russell Okung going to the Redskins, but Williams was the most athletic tackle in the draft, and seen as a better fit for their system.
Because of trades the Redskins did not have another pick until the 4th round. Perry Riley was the pick in Round 4, and he can move into a middle linebacker position on defense.
Late round sleepers look to be Erik Cook and Selvish Capers, a pair of offensive lineman. The line was a major weak spot in 2009, and Cook and Capers may be able to find starting spots along with Williams as the line looks to be revamped.
Draft Grade: C+
The Redskins traded for Donovan McNabb before the draft, and then traded Campbell to Oakland for a 4th round pick in 2012. The offensive line question was answered with the 4th overall selection, as Washington selected Trent Williams. Many draft experts had Russell Okung going to the Redskins, but Williams was the most athletic tackle in the draft, and seen as a better fit for their system.
Because of trades the Redskins did not have another pick until the 4th round. Perry Riley was the pick in Round 4, and he can move into a middle linebacker position on defense.
Late round sleepers look to be Erik Cook and Selvish Capers, a pair of offensive lineman. The line was a major weak spot in 2009, and Cook and Capers may be able to find starting spots along with Williams as the line looks to be revamped.
Draft Grade: C+
Draft Grades: Tennessee Titans
The Tennessee Titans finished the 2008 regular season with the best record in the NFL, but a loss in the divisional round of the playoffs left a sour taste on a season where everything seemed to be coming together. Then the 2009 season started with a long losing streak, and when Vince Young was reinstated as the starter it was too late to salvage the season. The Titans went into the 2010 NFL Draft looking to add to their success at the end of the previous year.
Tennessee needed to add a pass rusher, and they were able to select the player many saw as the best defensive end in the draft in Derrick Morgan. The Titans pass rush has suffered since the departure of Jevon Kearse, and Morgan will help the defense get pressure on the quarterback.
With Chris Johnson in the backfield, the Titans were looking to find a wide receiver to help strengthen the passing game and take some of the pressure off of Johnson. Tennessee selected Damian Williams in the third round. Williams will also be looked upon to return punts and kicks. The Titans traded up to select Alterraun Verner, a cornerback fro UCLA. Verner will be able to compete for a starting position in the secondary.
A late round sleeper pick looks to be Myron Rolle, a safety from Florida State. Rolle may be the first example of a player whose draft stock dropped because he is TOO smart. A Rhodes Scholar, Rolle spent the last year in England studying medicine but he is committed to playing football. Rolle can make an impact on special teams and in nickel packages, and his presence in the locker room can serve as a reminder to other young players what you can accomplish life outside of football.
Draft Grade: B
Tennessee needed to add a pass rusher, and they were able to select the player many saw as the best defensive end in the draft in Derrick Morgan. The Titans pass rush has suffered since the departure of Jevon Kearse, and Morgan will help the defense get pressure on the quarterback.
With Chris Johnson in the backfield, the Titans were looking to find a wide receiver to help strengthen the passing game and take some of the pressure off of Johnson. Tennessee selected Damian Williams in the third round. Williams will also be looked upon to return punts and kicks. The Titans traded up to select Alterraun Verner, a cornerback fro UCLA. Verner will be able to compete for a starting position in the secondary.
A late round sleeper pick looks to be Myron Rolle, a safety from Florida State. Rolle may be the first example of a player whose draft stock dropped because he is TOO smart. A Rhodes Scholar, Rolle spent the last year in England studying medicine but he is committed to playing football. Rolle can make an impact on special teams and in nickel packages, and his presence in the locker room can serve as a reminder to other young players what you can accomplish life outside of football.
Draft Grade: B
Draft Grades: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers just missed the playoffs in 2008, and went into a rebulding mode instead of reloading. A new coach, a rookie quarterback, and changes on both sides of the ball brought the Bucs a 3-13 record, and the third pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. There were holes to fill on both sides of the ball, and Tampa Bay found players who can have an immediate impact.
The 3rd overall selection was used on Gerald McCoy, a defensive tackle from Oklahoma. A number of draft experts had McCoy rated ahead of Ndamukong Suh, and McCoy is seen as the heir apparent to Warren Sapp. The second round brought another defensive tackle in Brian Price. McCoy and Price play different styles, and they should compliment each other well in the middle of the defensive line.
2009 first round selection Josh Freeman discovered that if you don't have quality receivers to throw to the passing game in the NFL can be difficult. That area was addressed with the selection of Arrelious Benn in Round 2. Another receiver, Mike Williams from Syracuse, was taken in the 4th round but he had a number of off the field problems in college, but he was seen by many as possibly the most talented receiver in the draft.
A late round sleeper could be Cody Grimm, a safety from Virginia Tech. The son of former Redskins lineman Russ Grimm, Cody is a hard nosed, tough minded player who plays with a high motor all the time.
Draft Grade: B+
The 3rd overall selection was used on Gerald McCoy, a defensive tackle from Oklahoma. A number of draft experts had McCoy rated ahead of Ndamukong Suh, and McCoy is seen as the heir apparent to Warren Sapp. The second round brought another defensive tackle in Brian Price. McCoy and Price play different styles, and they should compliment each other well in the middle of the defensive line.
2009 first round selection Josh Freeman discovered that if you don't have quality receivers to throw to the passing game in the NFL can be difficult. That area was addressed with the selection of Arrelious Benn in Round 2. Another receiver, Mike Williams from Syracuse, was taken in the 4th round but he had a number of off the field problems in college, but he was seen by many as possibly the most talented receiver in the draft.
A late round sleeper could be Cody Grimm, a safety from Virginia Tech. The son of former Redskins lineman Russ Grimm, Cody is a hard nosed, tough minded player who plays with a high motor all the time.
Draft Grade: B+
Draft Grades: St. Louis Rams
The St. Louis Rams franchise is a shell of its former self. They have won a total of 6 games in the last 3 seasons, and after a 1-15 season in 2009 the Rams had the 1st overall selection in the 2010 NFL Draft. The previous two drafts had the Rams passing on a franchise quarterback, and after the pro day workout of Sam Bradford there was no question who St. Louis would select at the top of the 2010 NFL Draft.
Bradford was indeed the 1st overall selection, and he is expected to be the face of the franchise. But he will have to get acclimated to taking snaps under center, and there will always be persistent questions about the health of his shoulder. The Rams selected Jason Smith 2nd overall in 2009, and he will be the Rams left tackle protecting Bradford's blind side. The second round in 2010 brought the Rams their right tackle of the future.
Rodger Saffold was seen as a late first round talent, and his selection may end up being more valuable to the Rams over time. Not only will he be able to pass block for Bradford, but he will also be able to open holes for Steven Jackson to run through. The more effective the Rams running game is, the more effective Bradford will be in the passing game.
Bradford also got a couple of targets to throw to later in the draft. Mardy Gilyard fell all the way to the top of the fourth round, and Michael Hoomanawanui should help shore up the tight end position.
The Rams also need help on the defensive side of the ball, and they got a late round sleeper in George Selvie. His production has never matched his talent, and if St. Louis can get him to produce then they can line him up opposite of Chris Long and rush the passer from both sides.
Draft Grade: B+
Bradford was indeed the 1st overall selection, and he is expected to be the face of the franchise. But he will have to get acclimated to taking snaps under center, and there will always be persistent questions about the health of his shoulder. The Rams selected Jason Smith 2nd overall in 2009, and he will be the Rams left tackle protecting Bradford's blind side. The second round in 2010 brought the Rams their right tackle of the future.
Rodger Saffold was seen as a late first round talent, and his selection may end up being more valuable to the Rams over time. Not only will he be able to pass block for Bradford, but he will also be able to open holes for Steven Jackson to run through. The more effective the Rams running game is, the more effective Bradford will be in the passing game.
Bradford also got a couple of targets to throw to later in the draft. Mardy Gilyard fell all the way to the top of the fourth round, and Michael Hoomanawanui should help shore up the tight end position.
The Rams also need help on the defensive side of the ball, and they got a late round sleeper in George Selvie. His production has never matched his talent, and if St. Louis can get him to produce then they can line him up opposite of Chris Long and rush the passer from both sides.
Draft Grade: B+
Draft Grades: Seattle Seahawks
The Seattle Seahawks are coming off of a 4-12 season in which two cornerstones of the franchise spent much of the season injured. Matt Hasslebeck and Walter Jones help lead the Seahawks to the Super Bowl in 2005, but their lack of playing time in 2009 was evident. Seattle went out during the offseason and acquired Charlie Whitehurst from San Diego. Whitehurst looks to be the quarterback of the future, but he is still a question mark as he has not thrown a pass in 4 NFL seasons.
The draft addressed the void left by the retirement of Jones. You don't replace a Hall of Fame left tackle overnight, but Seattle was able to select the tackle many had at the top of their draft boards in Russell Okung with the 6th overall selection. With a second pick in the first round Seattle was then able to pick Earl Thomas, a safety from Texas that some had rated higher than Eric Berry, who went 5th overall. Thomas is strongest in pass coverage, and he has the ability to play cornerback as well.
The Whitehurst trade cost Seattle their regular second round pick higher up in that round, but it also brought the Chargers pick at near the end of the second round. With that selection Seattle got one of the biggest steals of the draft when they were able to select Golden Tate. The wide receiver from Notre Dame was seen by many as the #1 or #2 wideout in the draft, and with injuries to T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Deion Branch it looks like Tate will get a chance to play right away.
Seattle also got two late round sleepers in Kam Chancellor and Anthony McCoy. Chancellor can team up with Earl Thomas and the two of them will be patrolling the secondary for many years to come. McCoy is a big, physical tight end who can block as well as catch passes, and his draft stock fell due to a positive drug test at the NFL Scouting Combine. But his old college coach from USC was Pete Carroll, who now coaches the Seahawks. Carroll knows what he is getting with McCoy, and if he can stay clean then Seattle got a tight end who will help solidify their passing game.
Draft Grade: A+ (Best Draft of any team in 2010)
The draft addressed the void left by the retirement of Jones. You don't replace a Hall of Fame left tackle overnight, but Seattle was able to select the tackle many had at the top of their draft boards in Russell Okung with the 6th overall selection. With a second pick in the first round Seattle was then able to pick Earl Thomas, a safety from Texas that some had rated higher than Eric Berry, who went 5th overall. Thomas is strongest in pass coverage, and he has the ability to play cornerback as well.
The Whitehurst trade cost Seattle their regular second round pick higher up in that round, but it also brought the Chargers pick at near the end of the second round. With that selection Seattle got one of the biggest steals of the draft when they were able to select Golden Tate. The wide receiver from Notre Dame was seen by many as the #1 or #2 wideout in the draft, and with injuries to T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Deion Branch it looks like Tate will get a chance to play right away.
Seattle also got two late round sleepers in Kam Chancellor and Anthony McCoy. Chancellor can team up with Earl Thomas and the two of them will be patrolling the secondary for many years to come. McCoy is a big, physical tight end who can block as well as catch passes, and his draft stock fell due to a positive drug test at the NFL Scouting Combine. But his old college coach from USC was Pete Carroll, who now coaches the Seahawks. Carroll knows what he is getting with McCoy, and if he can stay clean then Seattle got a tight end who will help solidify their passing game.
Draft Grade: A+ (Best Draft of any team in 2010)
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Draft Grades: San Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers finished the 2009 season at 8-8. It marked an improvement and the team looks to be buying into the way Mike Singletary coaches and they are starting to take the field in the image of their coach. The 2010 NFL Draft brought players who fit the mold Singletary of making the 49ers in to.
With two first round selections, the 49ers picked offensive lineman Anthony Davis and Mike Iupati. Both are big, physical blockers who will help plow the road for Frank Gore and the running game. With Joe Staley on the left side, Davis and Iupati will provide cornerstones for years to come.
The second round pick brought Taylor Mays, a safety from USC. Many see Mays as a liability in the pass game, but I believe that Singletary wants Mays to swing the hammer and be the hitter at safety that he played with in Chicago, namely Doug Plank and Gary Fencik. With his size and speed, Mays will almost be another linebacker in support of the run. The third round brought Navorro Bowman, a linebacker from Penn State who was graded with late first round/early second round talent who fell due to off the field issues.
A late round sleeper looks to be Anthony Dixon, a running back from Mississippi State. Dixon is the power back who can spell Gore and give the 49ers the punishing ground game that Coach Singletary is looking to establish.
Draft Grade: A
With two first round selections, the 49ers picked offensive lineman Anthony Davis and Mike Iupati. Both are big, physical blockers who will help plow the road for Frank Gore and the running game. With Joe Staley on the left side, Davis and Iupati will provide cornerstones for years to come.
The second round pick brought Taylor Mays, a safety from USC. Many see Mays as a liability in the pass game, but I believe that Singletary wants Mays to swing the hammer and be the hitter at safety that he played with in Chicago, namely Doug Plank and Gary Fencik. With his size and speed, Mays will almost be another linebacker in support of the run. The third round brought Navorro Bowman, a linebacker from Penn State who was graded with late first round/early second round talent who fell due to off the field issues.
A late round sleeper looks to be Anthony Dixon, a running back from Mississippi State. Dixon is the power back who can spell Gore and give the 49ers the punishing ground game that Coach Singletary is looking to establish.
Draft Grade: A
Draft Grades: San Diego Chargers
The San Diego Chargers finished the 2009 regular season as a favorite to win the Super Bowl, and two weeks later they were out, falling at home to the New York Jets. The offseason brought a number of changes, most prominent the release of LaDanian Tomlinson, the face of the franchise since 2001. Tomlinson signed with the Jets, who also traded with San Diego to acquire Antonio Cromartie. Jamal Williams leaves a big hole in the middle of the defense, signing as a free agent with Denver.
San Diego made a bold move in the 2010 NFL Draft by trading up from #28 to #12 and selecting Ryan Mathews, a running back from Fresno State. Mathews will be expected to carry the ball and provide the power running to an offense that has one of the best passing attacks in the NFL.
Defense was the focus for the rest of the draft. Donald Butler and Darrell Stuckey were selected in the second and third rounds. Butler can play inside or outside linebacker. Stuckey gives the Chargers depth in the secondary.
The sleeper pick for the Chargers is Cam Thomas, a nose tackle from North Carolina. The departure of Jamal Williams gives Thomas a chance to start right away at nose tackle. If he can stop up the middle the Chargers defense should be solid again.
Draft Grade: B+
San Diego made a bold move in the 2010 NFL Draft by trading up from #28 to #12 and selecting Ryan Mathews, a running back from Fresno State. Mathews will be expected to carry the ball and provide the power running to an offense that has one of the best passing attacks in the NFL.
Defense was the focus for the rest of the draft. Donald Butler and Darrell Stuckey were selected in the second and third rounds. Butler can play inside or outside linebacker. Stuckey gives the Chargers depth in the secondary.
The sleeper pick for the Chargers is Cam Thomas, a nose tackle from North Carolina. The departure of Jamal Williams gives Thomas a chance to start right away at nose tackle. If he can stop up the middle the Chargers defense should be solid again.
Draft Grade: B+
Friday, April 30, 2010
Draft Grades: Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers went into the 2009 NFL season as the reigning Super Bowl Champions. They finished out of the playoffs, and head into the offseason with plenty of questions.
Super Bowl MVP Santonio Holmes was traded to the New York Jets for a 5th Round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. Too many off the field problems and a looming 4 game suspension led to the trade of Holmes. Then the big bombshell hit. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was levied with a six game suspension for his off the field indiscretions. The Steelers head into the 2010 NFL season with a lot of questions and still looking for the answers.
The offensive line has been a problem for years, and with their first round selection the Steelers picked Maurkice Pouncey, a center from Florida. Pouncey is a mauler in the middle of the line. He will be looked upon to play guard at first then move to his natural position.
Emmanuel Sanders, a wide receiver from SMU, will be looked upon to help fill the void left by the trading of Holmes. But the draft for the Steelers was heavy on defensive ends and linebackers. The second round brought Jason Worilds from Virginia Tech. The Steelers are strongest at the linebacker position, and many of their draft picks will be looked upon to help on special teams, a unit which gave up way too many touchdowns in the 2009 season.
A late round sleeper looks to be Jonathon Dwyer,a running back from Georgia Tech. Dywer is a physical, pound it between the tackles runner who can help fill the void left by the free agent departure of Willie Parker and back up Rashard Mendenhall.
Draft Grade: C+
Super Bowl MVP Santonio Holmes was traded to the New York Jets for a 5th Round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. Too many off the field problems and a looming 4 game suspension led to the trade of Holmes. Then the big bombshell hit. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was levied with a six game suspension for his off the field indiscretions. The Steelers head into the 2010 NFL season with a lot of questions and still looking for the answers.
The offensive line has been a problem for years, and with their first round selection the Steelers picked Maurkice Pouncey, a center from Florida. Pouncey is a mauler in the middle of the line. He will be looked upon to play guard at first then move to his natural position.
Emmanuel Sanders, a wide receiver from SMU, will be looked upon to help fill the void left by the trading of Holmes. But the draft for the Steelers was heavy on defensive ends and linebackers. The second round brought Jason Worilds from Virginia Tech. The Steelers are strongest at the linebacker position, and many of their draft picks will be looked upon to help on special teams, a unit which gave up way too many touchdowns in the 2009 season.
A late round sleeper looks to be Jonathon Dwyer,a running back from Georgia Tech. Dywer is a physical, pound it between the tackles runner who can help fill the void left by the free agent departure of Willie Parker and back up Rashard Mendenhall.
Draft Grade: C+
Draft Grades: Philadelphia Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles went into the 2010 NFL Draft for the first time since 1999 without Donovan McNabb as their quarterback. The face of the franchise was dealt to the Washington Redskins, and the reins have been turned over to Kevin Kolb, who has a total of 2 starts in his three year career.
Much like the New England Patriots, Philadelphia makes a lot of trades before and during the draft, and they moved up from #24 to #13 to select Brandon Graham, a defensive end from Michigan. Graham should provide the Eagles with a solid pass rush, and he plays with a high motor from start to finish. Philadelphia then went looking to fill the void left by the departure of Brian Dawkins the previous season and picked Nate Allen, a safety from South Florida. The offense was not a target of the draft until Round 4, when the Eagles picked Mike Kafka, a quarterback from Northwestern. They then selected Clay Harbor, a tight end from Missouri State, and Riley Cooper, a wide receiver from Florida, who should assist Kolb in transitioning to the starting quarterback position and the new face of the Eagles franchise.
A sleeper pick from the later rounds looks to be Ricky Sapp, a linebacker with exceptional speed who can be used in blitz packages, which has been a staple of the Eagles defense.
Draft Grade: B+
Much like the New England Patriots, Philadelphia makes a lot of trades before and during the draft, and they moved up from #24 to #13 to select Brandon Graham, a defensive end from Michigan. Graham should provide the Eagles with a solid pass rush, and he plays with a high motor from start to finish. Philadelphia then went looking to fill the void left by the departure of Brian Dawkins the previous season and picked Nate Allen, a safety from South Florida. The offense was not a target of the draft until Round 4, when the Eagles picked Mike Kafka, a quarterback from Northwestern. They then selected Clay Harbor, a tight end from Missouri State, and Riley Cooper, a wide receiver from Florida, who should assist Kolb in transitioning to the starting quarterback position and the new face of the Eagles franchise.
A sleeper pick from the later rounds looks to be Ricky Sapp, a linebacker with exceptional speed who can be used in blitz packages, which has been a staple of the Eagles defense.
Draft Grade: B+
Draft Grades: Oakland Raiders
To say that the Oakland Raiders have fallen on hard times is putting it mildly. Since appearing in the Super Bowl after the 2002 season the Raiders have lost at least 11 games in every season. Their lack of success on the field has been reflected in a series of bad picks at the top of the NFL Draft. But in 2010 the Raiders seemed to make all the right picks and left with potentially one of the best draft classes in 2010.
The 8th overall selection was used on Rolando McClain, who was far and away the best linebacker in the draft. He should be a force in the middle of the defense for years to come. The second round selection brought Lamarr Houston, a defensive tackle from Texas.
The next two picks were used for a pair of offensive tackles that have all the physical tools and then some, but who need more experience. Jared Veldeer comes from Hillsdale college, and Bruce Campbell, the Workout Wonder from the NFL Combine, comes in with only a handful of starts at the University of Maryland. Both tackles are in the area of 6'7 and 320 pounds. If they develop then the Raiders have a pair of giant sized bookends on the offensive line.
A late round sleeper could very be an Al Davis selection special, Jacoby Ford. A receiver from Clemson, he posted the fastest 40 times at the Combine. The Raiders are hoping he can hold on to the ball, something their first round selection in 2009, Darrius Heyward-Bey, did not do much of in his rookie season.
The 8th overall selection was used on Rolando McClain, who was far and away the best linebacker in the draft. He should be a force in the middle of the defense for years to come. The second round selection brought Lamarr Houston, a defensive tackle from Texas.
The next two picks were used for a pair of offensive tackles that have all the physical tools and then some, but who need more experience. Jared Veldeer comes from Hillsdale college, and Bruce Campbell, the Workout Wonder from the NFL Combine, comes in with only a handful of starts at the University of Maryland. Both tackles are in the area of 6'7 and 320 pounds. If they develop then the Raiders have a pair of giant sized bookends on the offensive line.
A late round sleeper could very be an Al Davis selection special, Jacoby Ford. A receiver from Clemson, he posted the fastest 40 times at the Combine. The Raiders are hoping he can hold on to the ball, something their first round selection in 2009, Darrius Heyward-Bey, did not do much of in his rookie season.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Draft Grades: New York Jets
The New York Jets were the surprise team of the NFL in 2009. With a rookie quarterback in Mark Sanchez, they finished with a 9-7 record and a wild card appearance. They then went on the road and won at Cincinnati and San Diego before falling to the Indianapolis Colts in the AFC Championship game. They were active in the offseason, acquiring LaDanian Tomlinson, , Jason Taylor, Antonio Cromartie, and Santonio Holmes. The Jets look to be ready for another run through the playoffs.
The first round selection of the Jets was Kyle Wilson, considered by many to be either the first or second best corner of the 2010 NFL Draft. Wilson will be the third corner, and that was where the Colts attacked them in the playoffs.
The drafting of Vladimir Ducasse signaled the end of Alan Faneca with the Jets, and Ducasse looks to be able to step in right away at guard. Ducasse has the tools and physical skills, but coming from UMass and playing against lesser competition may hinder him at the start.
A late round sleeper looks to be Joe McKnight. The Jets traded Leon Washington, and McKnight is an open field playmaker who can have an impact on third down and passing situations.
Draft Grade: C+
The first round selection of the Jets was Kyle Wilson, considered by many to be either the first or second best corner of the 2010 NFL Draft. Wilson will be the third corner, and that was where the Colts attacked them in the playoffs.
The drafting of Vladimir Ducasse signaled the end of Alan Faneca with the Jets, and Ducasse looks to be able to step in right away at guard. Ducasse has the tools and physical skills, but coming from UMass and playing against lesser competition may hinder him at the start.
A late round sleeper looks to be Joe McKnight. The Jets traded Leon Washington, and McKnight is an open field playmaker who can have an impact on third down and passing situations.
Draft Grade: C+
Draft Grades: New York Giants
The hallmark of the New York Giants has been defense. In 2009, the defense fell apart and ranked near the worst in the league. A 5-0 start was wasted and the Giants were left looking in when the playoffs came around.
The pass rush was addressed with the selection of Jason Pierre-Paul, the defensive end out of South Florida. His athletic skills have drawn comparisons to Jevon Kearse, but he is far from a finished product and will need work. The interior of the defensive line was the focus in the second round, as the Giants picked Linval Joseph, a big run stuffer at defensive tackle.
The only offensive player selected was Nick Petrus, a guard with the athletic ability to move across the line and get downfield to block.
Chad Jones, a safety out of LSU, was taken in the third round, and he is also a valued special teams player. A late round sleeper can be found in Phillip Dillard, a linebacker out of Nebraska. His role was limited in college, but he has the chance to blossom with the Giants.
Draft Grade: B-
The pass rush was addressed with the selection of Jason Pierre-Paul, the defensive end out of South Florida. His athletic skills have drawn comparisons to Jevon Kearse, but he is far from a finished product and will need work. The interior of the defensive line was the focus in the second round, as the Giants picked Linval Joseph, a big run stuffer at defensive tackle.
The only offensive player selected was Nick Petrus, a guard with the athletic ability to move across the line and get downfield to block.
Chad Jones, a safety out of LSU, was taken in the third round, and he is also a valued special teams player. A late round sleeper can be found in Phillip Dillard, a linebacker out of Nebraska. His role was limited in college, but he has the chance to blossom with the Giants.
Draft Grade: B-
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Draft Grades: New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints capped their 2009 season with the first Super Bowl title in team history. But even with their success the Saints needed to fill some holes that opened up with free agency, and while many of them were not addressed the Saints still had a good draft.
The Saints have not made a decision to re-sign Darren Sharper, and with their first round selection they picked Patrick Robinson, a cornerback out of Florida State. If they play Robinson at corner, which they are deep at, they may move Malcolm Jenkins to the safety position formerly occupied by Sharper.
The Saints are also strong at the offensive tackle position, but Charles Brown was too good of a selection to pass up at the end of the second round. The third round brought Jimmy Graham, a tight end out of Miami who was a basketball player before moving to the gridiron. Jeremy Shockey should be able to mentor his fellow Hurricane at the position and help with his development.
A sleeper pick looks to be Al Woods, a defensive tackle from LSU. A weakness for the Saints on defense was their ability to stop the run, and Woods should help correct that situation.
Draft Grade: B
The Saints have not made a decision to re-sign Darren Sharper, and with their first round selection they picked Patrick Robinson, a cornerback out of Florida State. If they play Robinson at corner, which they are deep at, they may move Malcolm Jenkins to the safety position formerly occupied by Sharper.
The Saints are also strong at the offensive tackle position, but Charles Brown was too good of a selection to pass up at the end of the second round. The third round brought Jimmy Graham, a tight end out of Miami who was a basketball player before moving to the gridiron. Jeremy Shockey should be able to mentor his fellow Hurricane at the position and help with his development.
A sleeper pick looks to be Al Woods, a defensive tackle from LSU. A weakness for the Saints on defense was their ability to stop the run, and Woods should help correct that situation.
Draft Grade: B
Draft Grades: New England Patriots
The New England Patriots are becoming the favorite every year to make the most trades and wind up with the most draft picks. 2010 is no different. The Patriots wound up with 13 draft picks, and with an aging team they may be looking for an infusion of youth to help get them back on top.
Devin McCourtey should step into the secondary and help shore up the pass defense with solid man to man cover skills. He also provides depth in the return game. Second round selection Rob Gronkowski was considered the best blocking tight end in the draft, and he is also a solid pass catcher. Many believe the Patriots will be returning to a more physical attack on offense, and Gronkowski will help open holes in the blocking game and provide Tom Brady with a big target over the middle.
New England then tapped the University of Florida for 3 of of their next 4 picks, taking linebackers Jermaine Cunningham and Brandon Spikes, as well as tight end Aaron Hernandez. Cunningham should play on the outside, and Spikes will man the middle. Many were surprised that Hernandez fell to the 4th round, but he revelation that he failed at least one drug test in college explains why he fell as far as he did.
A sleeper pick looks to be punter Zoltan Mesko. The Patriots are looking for a new punter, and Mesko has the big leg to pin opponents back deep in their own territory.
Draft Grade: A-
Devin McCourtey should step into the secondary and help shore up the pass defense with solid man to man cover skills. He also provides depth in the return game. Second round selection Rob Gronkowski was considered the best blocking tight end in the draft, and he is also a solid pass catcher. Many believe the Patriots will be returning to a more physical attack on offense, and Gronkowski will help open holes in the blocking game and provide Tom Brady with a big target over the middle.
New England then tapped the University of Florida for 3 of of their next 4 picks, taking linebackers Jermaine Cunningham and Brandon Spikes, as well as tight end Aaron Hernandez. Cunningham should play on the outside, and Spikes will man the middle. Many were surprised that Hernandez fell to the 4th round, but he revelation that he failed at least one drug test in college explains why he fell as far as he did.
A sleeper pick looks to be punter Zoltan Mesko. The Patriots are looking for a new punter, and Mesko has the big leg to pin opponents back deep in their own territory.
Draft Grade: A-
Draft Grades: Minnesota Vikings
The Minnesota Vikings came an intercepted pass and an overtime field goal away from playing in the Super Bowl. The Brett Favre experiment was a huge success. It looks as if Favre will be back for the 2010 NFL Season, and if he does return the Vikings will be threats to play well into the playoffs once again.
The Vikings traded down out of the first round, and their biggest area of concern was addressed with the selection of Chris Cook, a defensive back out of Virginia. To compensate for the free agency loss of Chester Taylor the Vikings moved up in the second round to pick Toby Gerhart. A bruising runner, there are concerns about his pass catching ability, but Gerhart should be a valuable backup to Adrian Peterson.
The Vikings got a gift in the fourth round when Everson Griffen fell out of the first 3 rounds. Many had him graded with first round talent, but questions about his motor kept him from being selected on the first two days of the draft. If he can live up to pre-draft expectations then Minnesota's will be that much better.
Although deep at the tight end position, a sleeper pick could be Mickey Shuler. His father was an NFL tight end, and he has the abilities to perform at that level as well.
Draft Grade: B
The Vikings traded down out of the first round, and their biggest area of concern was addressed with the selection of Chris Cook, a defensive back out of Virginia. To compensate for the free agency loss of Chester Taylor the Vikings moved up in the second round to pick Toby Gerhart. A bruising runner, there are concerns about his pass catching ability, but Gerhart should be a valuable backup to Adrian Peterson.
The Vikings got a gift in the fourth round when Everson Griffen fell out of the first 3 rounds. Many had him graded with first round talent, but questions about his motor kept him from being selected on the first two days of the draft. If he can live up to pre-draft expectations then Minnesota's will be that much better.
Although deep at the tight end position, a sleeper pick could be Mickey Shuler. His father was an NFL tight end, and he has the abilities to perform at that level as well.
Draft Grade: B
Draft Grades: Miami Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins went into the 2010 NFL Draft looking for help on defense. The offense got an infusion of talent with the trade for Brandon Marshall from Denver. He will be catching passes from Chad Henne, who assumed the starting job after an injury to Chad Pennington and looks to be the quarterback of the future. The running game took a hit with another injury to Ronnie Brown, but Ricky Williams has been playing with renewed vigor. But he has indicated that 2010 will be his final season, and unless Brown can show he can stay injury free the Dolphins will be looking for help in the backfield.
Miami held the 12th Overall selection, but traded down with San Diego to #28 and wound up taking Jared Odrick, a defensive lineman out of Penn State. Odrick can play tackle and end, and the Dolphins are looking for him to play end. Koa Misi looks to give Miami depth at the linebacker position. The only offensive player taken was John Jerry, a guard out of Mississippi, who will be asked to step in right away.
The sleeper pick for Miami looks to be Reshad Jones, a safety who is a big hitter but also a ball hawk, picking off 11 passes at Georgia.
Draft Grade: B
Miami held the 12th Overall selection, but traded down with San Diego to #28 and wound up taking Jared Odrick, a defensive lineman out of Penn State. Odrick can play tackle and end, and the Dolphins are looking for him to play end. Koa Misi looks to give Miami depth at the linebacker position. The only offensive player taken was John Jerry, a guard out of Mississippi, who will be asked to step in right away.
The sleeper pick for Miami looks to be Reshad Jones, a safety who is a big hitter but also a ball hawk, picking off 11 passes at Georgia.
Draft Grade: B
Draft Grades: Kansas City Chiefs
The Kansas City Chiefs went into the 2010 NFL Draft looking to fill a lot of holes on both sides of the ball, and the Chiefs looked like the accomplished what they set out to do.
Defense was the first pick, taking Eric Berry with the 5th Overall selection. Many saw Berry as the best player in the draft, and he will step in right away at the safety position. His ability to cover and stop the run makes him a valuable asset and he should step in as a starter right away.
Offense was the pick in the second round, as the Chiefs selected Dexter McCluster. McCluster may be undersized as a running back, but as a slot receiver he has the speed and ability to make plays in the open field, and he can be the playmaker the Chiefs offense lacks in the passing game.
The rest of the draft was solid. Javier Arenas at cornerback is a good pick, and his ability as the best return man should make Chief fans think back to Dante Hall. The offensive line was a concern going into the draft, and it was addressed with the selection of Jon Asamoah, a guard who will help the run and pass game.
A late round sleeper looks to be Tony Moeaki, a tight end out of Iowa. The trade of Tony Gonzalez the year before left a gaping hole in the offense, and Moeaki can step in and, though no one is going to measure up to Gonzalez, he can help down the road.
Draft Grade: B+
Defense was the first pick, taking Eric Berry with the 5th Overall selection. Many saw Berry as the best player in the draft, and he will step in right away at the safety position. His ability to cover and stop the run makes him a valuable asset and he should step in as a starter right away.
Offense was the pick in the second round, as the Chiefs selected Dexter McCluster. McCluster may be undersized as a running back, but as a slot receiver he has the speed and ability to make plays in the open field, and he can be the playmaker the Chiefs offense lacks in the passing game.
The rest of the draft was solid. Javier Arenas at cornerback is a good pick, and his ability as the best return man should make Chief fans think back to Dante Hall. The offensive line was a concern going into the draft, and it was addressed with the selection of Jon Asamoah, a guard who will help the run and pass game.
A late round sleeper looks to be Tony Moeaki, a tight end out of Iowa. The trade of Tony Gonzalez the year before left a gaping hole in the offense, and Moeaki can step in and, though no one is going to measure up to Gonzalez, he can help down the road.
Draft Grade: B+
Draft Grades: Jacksonville Jaguars
The first nine selections of the 2010 NFL Draft went as expected. Then the Jacksonville Jaguars went on the clock. Their pick was a head scratcher, and was the start of a puzzling draft.
It wasn't the selection of Tyson Alualu that was odd. Alualu is a talented player, who will be a starter from Day 1 with the release of John Henderson. What makes you wonder what the Jags were doing is that they could have traded down, accumulated extra picks, and still been able to get Alualu later in the first round. Jacksonville picked 10th, while the teams that picked 11th, 12th and 13th all traded up to those spots. It is reasonable to think that those teams could just have easily made a deal with Jacksonville, especially San Francisco, who moved up from the 13th pick. Alualu would have still been there for the Jags, and they would have gotten more picks later on.
Jacksonville used the rest of their picks to draft a new defensive line, taking DT D'Anthony Smith, and ends Larry Hart and Austen Lane. The offense finally got some help with the selection of Deji Karim in the 6th Round, who looks to be a backup to Maurice Jones-Drew.
A sleeper pick looks to be Scotty McGee, a kick returner who could add a new dimension to the special teams for Jacksonville.
Draft Grade: D+
It wasn't the selection of Tyson Alualu that was odd. Alualu is a talented player, who will be a starter from Day 1 with the release of John Henderson. What makes you wonder what the Jags were doing is that they could have traded down, accumulated extra picks, and still been able to get Alualu later in the first round. Jacksonville picked 10th, while the teams that picked 11th, 12th and 13th all traded up to those spots. It is reasonable to think that those teams could just have easily made a deal with Jacksonville, especially San Francisco, who moved up from the 13th pick. Alualu would have still been there for the Jags, and they would have gotten more picks later on.
Jacksonville used the rest of their picks to draft a new defensive line, taking DT D'Anthony Smith, and ends Larry Hart and Austen Lane. The offense finally got some help with the selection of Deji Karim in the 6th Round, who looks to be a backup to Maurice Jones-Drew.
A sleeper pick looks to be Scotty McGee, a kick returner who could add a new dimension to the special teams for Jacksonville.
Draft Grade: D+
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)